Expressnews
Chennai, February 15, 2025: The MGM Tamil Nadu Pickleball Premier League (TNPPL) officially launched today with a spectacular inaugural ceremony at the Jawaharlal Nehru Indoor Stadium, Chennai, marking a significant milestone in the growth of pickleball in South India.
The prestigious event was graced by Thiru J Meghanath Reddy, IAS, Chief Executive Officer/Member Secretary, Sports Development Authority of Tamil Nadu; Thiru Sharath Kamal, Khel Ratna, Padma Shri & Arjuna Awardee; and renowned actor Thiru Sathish MuthuKrishnan. Their presence added to the grandeur of the occasion, underscoring the importance of promoting emerging sports in the region.
In his inaugural address, Thiru J Meghanath Reddy, IAS, commended the efforts of the organizers in creating a competitive platform for athletes. He stated, “Pickleball is a rapidly growing sport, and initiatives like the MGM TNPPL will help nurture talent and encourage more people to participate in it. We look forward to seeing Tamil Nadu emerge as a strong contender in national and international pickleball events.”
Echoing the sentiment, Olympian and table tennis legend Thiru Sharath Kamal said, “Sports have the power to 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.”
Actor Thiru Sathish MuthuKrishnan added to the excitement, expressing 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,” he said.
The two-day league (February 15-16, 2025) features 16 teams, each comprising 10 skilled players, battling for the coveted championship title. The opening match set the stage for an intense competition, with thrilling rallies and strategic gameplay captivating the audience.
K. Mohit Kumar, Secretary of TNPPL, shared his enthusiasm, stating, “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. With the support of esteemed guests, sponsors: Main Sponsors Mgm – Title Sponsor, Boom Cars – Power Sponsor, Madha – Co Sponsor, Indian Bank – Co Sponsor, Tex Valley – Jersey Sponsor, and the community, we are confident this league will grow exponentially in the coming years.”
With the tournament now in full swing, fans can expect electrifying matches, fierce rivalries, and a display of exceptional talent.
The MGM TNPPL is set to become a landmark sporting event, drawing attention from across the country.
