News & Stories
Mar 5, 2025
The much-anticipated MGM Tamil Nadu Pickleball Premier League (TNPPL) has officially commenced, marking a new era for the sport in South India. The grand inaugural ceremony took place at the prestigious Jawaharlal Nehru Indoor Stadium in Chennai, setting the stage for an electrifying competition featuring the best pickleball talent in the region.
A Star-Studded Opening Ceremony
The launch event was graced by distinguished guests, including Thiru J Meghanath Reddy, IAS, Chief Executive Officer/Member Secretary, Sports Development Authority of Tamil Nadu; legendary table tennis player Thiru Sharath Kamal, a Khel Ratna, Padma Shri & Arjuna Awardee; and popular actor Thiru Sathish MuthuKrishnan. Their presence underscored the growing significance of pickleball in India and highlighted the government’s and sports community’s commitment to fostering emerging sports.
Thiru J Meghanath Reddy, IAS, lauded the initiative, stating, “Pickleball is a rapidly growing sport, and initiatives like the MGM TNPPL will help nurture talent and encourage more people to participate. We look forward to seeing Tamil Nadu emerge as a strong contender in national and international pickleball events.”
Echoing the sentiment, Olympian Thiru Sharath Kamal emphasized the unifying power of sports, saying, “Sports bring communities together, and pickleball is no exception. The enthusiasm of the players and fans today is a testament to the sport’s bright future in India.”
Adding to the excitement, actor Thiru Sathish MuthuKrishnan expressed his admiration for the league’s vision and the high-energy atmosphere. “It’s amazing to see the passion and dedication of these players. Events like this not only promote sports but also inspire the younger generation to take up new challenges.”
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High-Stakes Competition Begins
The two-day league, spanning February 15-16, 2025, features 16 formidable teams, each comprising 10 skilled players battling for the coveted championship title. The opening match set the tone for an intense competition, with thrilling rallies and strategic gameplay captivating the audience.
K. Mohit Kumar, Secretary of TNPPL, expressed his excitement over the overwhelming response to the event, saying, “We are thrilled to witness such an incredible response to the MGM TNPPL. Our goal is to make pickleball a household name in Tamil Nadu and provide players with a platform to shine.”
The league has garnered immense support from sponsors, including MGM as the title sponsor, Boom Cars as the power sponsor, Madha and Indian Bank as co-sponsors, and Tex Valley as the jersey sponsor. Their backing reinforces the event’s credibility and promises a bright future for pickleball in the region.
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A Promising Future for Pickleball in Tamil Nadu
With the tournament now in full swing, fans can expect high-intensity matchups, fierce rivalries, and breathtaking performances. The MGM TNPPL is not just a tournament—it’s a movement, aiming to propel pickleball into mainstream sports culture in Tamil Nadu and beyond.
As the league unfolds, the excitement is palpable, and one thing is clear: pickleball fever has officially taken over South India. Stay tuned for more action-packed matches and inspiring stories from the courts!
