News & Stories
Apr 8, 2025
Goa made waves on April 5-6, 2025, with the first-ever Aguada Pickleball Sundowner, setting a bold new tone for pickleball in India. Hosted at the stunning Taj Fort Aguada, this high-energy, sunset-soaked tournament marked the official launch of Goa’s first luxury pickleball court, and signaled the state’s arrival as a top-tier destination for the sport.
A Tournament to Remember
Held at the newly unveiled Aguada Pickleball Arena, the event welcomed over 150 players from across the country, including top talent from Mumbai, Bangalore, Chennai, Delhi, and Goa. The action unfolded across a state-of-the-art 1,800 sq. ft. synthetic acrylic court, designed for high-performance play — all with panoramic views of the Arabian Sea.
The competition featured Men’s and Mixed Doubles (in both advanced and intermediate brackets), as well as a Gender-Neutral Doubles category, embracing inclusivity and skill diversity in equal measure.
(Photo Source: https://www.instagram.com/p/DIOxHDjSMXg/?img_index=8)
More Than a Match
The real magic happened as the sun dipped below the Goan horizon. This was pickleball with a twist — sunset matches, curated entertainment, exclusive food & beverage experiences, and premium networking opportunities gave players and guests alike an unforgettable social experience.
From fierce on-court battles to relaxed mingling under the stars, the Aguada Pickleball Sundowner wasn’t just a tournament — it was a celebration of sport, community, and coastal luxury.
And for the winners? A prize pool of ₹1,27,500, alongside exclusive goodies and official citations, ensured their victories were both sweet and stylish.
(Photo Source: https://www.instagram.com/p/DIOxHDjSMXg/?img_index=8)
Driving the Pickleball Movement Forward
Organized by Aguada Pickleball Arena, Courtly, and Adi Oberoi, the event showcased the unstoppable momentum of India’s pickleball scene.
“We are thrilled to bring the Aguada Pickleball Sundowner to Goa, offering players a dynamic platform to showcase their skills and engage with the growing pickleball community. With an impressive prize pool and an electric atmosphere, this event promises to be a landmark event for the sport in India,” said Adi Oberoi, leading sports marketing consultant and Secretary of the Goa Pickleball Association.
Tanishq Mahendru, founder of Courtly — a platform transforming how India plays recreational sports — added, “Pickleball combines the passion of cricket with the prestige of golf, making it both accessible and aspirational. At Courtly, we are proud and humbled to grow this beautiful game across India, uniting players nationwide.”
Ranjit Philipose, Senior Vice President – IHCL, Goa, also emphasized the sport’s wider cultural impact: “Pickleball is more than just a sport—it’s a movement bringing together enthusiasts of all ages and skill levels. The Aguada Pickleball Sundowner is an exciting opportunity for players across India to come together, compete, and celebrate this growing sport in the stunning setting of Aguada. We invite all picklers to be part of this unique experience and make it a memorable evening of camaraderie and spirited play.”
(Photo Source: https://www.instagram.com/p/DIOxHDjSMXg/?img_index=8)
Powered by Passionate Partners
The event’s success was fueled by a dynamic network of sponsors. Manas Developers led the way as Title Sponsor, with Majestic Pride funding the prize money. The Ardee Group, CP Plus, The Windsouls, A3 Charge, and FYNX elevated every detail, from safety to on-court performance.
Lifestyle and F&B partners brought flavor and flair: Pistola, Greater Than London Dry Gin, Bira 91, Jimmy’s Cocktails, and Minimalist added sparkle to the social scene, while Technosport, Prudent Group, Olio, and Get-A-Way Desserts rounded out the experience in style.
Goa’s New Role in Indian Pickleball
The Aguada Pickleball Sundowner has officially placed Goa on the pickleball map — not just as a vacation paradise, but as a serious sporting destination. With its seamless blend of competition, hospitality, and community, the event is set to become a cornerstone of India’s pickleball calendar.
While the event is now closed, the excitement it generated is only the beginning. As India’s pickleball community grows, expect more unforgettable moments — and more stunning venues — in the months ahead.
