Bollywood power couple Riteish and Genelia Deshmukh, along with corporate leaders Sudhir and Sunanda Mehta of EKA Mobility and Pinnacle Industries, and education pioneers Ajeenkya and Pooja Patil of Ajeenkya DY Patil University, have acquired Pune United, the city’s new franchise in the World Pickleball League (WPBL).
The launch of Pune United marks a significant milestone for the city, bringing the rapidly growing sport of pickleball into the spotlight. With the WPBL kicking off on 24 January, 2025, Pune United is poised to inspire a fresh wave of excitement and community engagement through the sport.
Riteish Deshmukh shared his enthusiasm for the initiative, said, “Pickleball is the fastest-growing sport in the world. Its craze and popularity are unmatched amongst all ages. We are excited to be part of the World Pickleball League, which will surely take pickleball to newer heights across India. Our endeavor at Pune United is to champion a team that will inspire players to give their best and couples, families, and communities to come together and embrace this wonderful game and lead healthier and fitter lives.”
Genelia Deshmukh echoed his sentiments, emphasizing the sport’s transformative potential. “Pune United is serving up a storm. We are excited to be part of the World Pickleball League. Pickleball has the power to unite, inspire, and transform. Our mission at Pune United is simple: to ignite a love for pickleball that goes beyond the court. We’re committed to fostering a culture of camaraderie, wellness, and fun that will enrich the lives of our players, families, and community.”
Highlighting the city’s vibrant culture, Dr. Sudhir Mehta, Founder & Chairman of EKA Mobility and Pinnacle Industries, said, “We wanted to bring a global sports franchise to Pune. Pune is a young and vibrant city thriving with people from all walks of life, students, entrepreneurs, academicians, young professionals, etc. Pickleball is the perfect sport for today’s times—accessible, healthy, and enjoyable. With Pune United, we envision not just nurturing talent but also cultivating a culture that highlights Pune as a hub for innovation, fitness, and community engagement.”
Adding to this vision, Ajeenkya D Y Patil, Founder-President of Ajeenkya DY Patil University, remarked, “Through Pune United, we want to connect people of all ages and backgrounds, fostering a sense of belonging and pride. It is an interesting & engaging sport, and as a team, Pune United will represent not only the city’s unparalleled potential but also its rich culture and innovative energy.”
WPBL Founder and CEO Gaurav Natekar welcomed Pune United into the league, said, “As a Punekar, I am thrilled to welcome Pune United to the WPBL family. The dynamic consortium of owners, with their diverse backgrounds and shared passion for sports, will undoubtedly create a powerful force and elevate pickleball’s popularity and aspirational value in Pune and beyond. The city’s rich sporting and cultural heritage make it the perfect breeding ground for the sport of pickleball.”
Pickleball, known for its accessibility and ability to unite people across age groups, is gaining traction worldwide. With Pune United’s entry into the World Pickleball League, the city is set to embrace a new era of fitness, fun, and community spirit.
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