The inaugural season of the Indian Pickleball League (IPBL), held at the KD Jadhav Indoor Hall in New Delhi, kick-started a new era for pickleball in the country. The league’s role and impact were multidimensional, functioning as the professional platform players needed, a launchpad for young talent, and a stage to experiment with and learn new facets of the game.
Ticking all these boxes, the first-ever IPBL also played a significant role in shaping the trajectory of women’s pickleball in India. From international stalwarts to homegrown young talent, women players’ performances infused the league with intensity, strategy, and unforgettable moments that promised to elevate professional pickleball across the nation.
Leading the charge was Megan Fudge, the powerhouse for the Hyderabad Royals, whose consistent excellence earned her the Most Valuable Player of the League – Female award. Known for her ferocious forehand and tactical acumen, Fudge terrorised opponents in women’s singles and was pivotal in clutch moments throughout Hyderabad’s run to the final. Her ability to flip momentum with precision shots made her one of the league’s defining figures.
Across the league, Roos van Reek of the Chennai Super Warriors delivered an impeccable run in the women’s singles discipline, finishing the round-robin stage unbeaten and ultimately being recognised as the Best Women’s Singles Player of the IPBL. Her calm demeanour and sharp court awareness gave Chennai crucial early advantages on multiple match days, exemplifying how consistency can be just as lethal as power.
The Lucknow Leopards also possessed dynamic women players in their ranks. Fifteen-year-old Naomi Amalsadiwala was a revelation, bringing both grit and flair to her matches. Paired with Shelby Bates in women’s doubles, Naomi’s fast hands at the net and intelligent positioning provided the Leopards with vital points, while her on-court duels – particularly against her sister, Pearl Amalsadiwala – became talking points for fans craving spirited competition.
Like Naomi, Pearl was a standout performer and deservedly won the Best Doubles Player of the League in the female category. Her calmness under pressure and ability to deliver crucial wins for eventual champions Mumbai Her partnership with Allison Harris at the Smashers made her a youngster to watch out for. The duo were consistent throughout the season and stood at the centre of Mumbai’s title-winning run.
Also impressive was Naimi Mehta of the Capital Warriors Gurgaon. Though her team faced stiff competition, Mehta’s resilience in tight rallies and her composure under pressure turned several ties in her team’s favour, helping them secure key victories during the gruelling round-robin phase.
Coming-of-age moment
They defined the true essence of the league with their diverse styles. From Megan’s athletic aggression to Pearl’s strategic prowess in doubles, this was the coming-of-age moment for women’s pickleball in India. For young players watching from the stands or streaming at home, it was a showcase of possibility, proving that Indian women were not mere participants, but leaders in the sport’s rapid rise.
Among other Indian players, Shreya Chakraborty of the Hyderabad Royals brought her own inspiring arc. A rising talent with a fierce competitive spirit, she, pairing up with Megan, provided key points in tight doubles ties in the limited opportunities she got. Meanwhile, Mihika Yadav, drafted by the Lucknow Leopards as one of India’s standout female talents, carried the hopes of a new generation eager to leave their mark on the sport. Mihika shone bright in the Eliminator when she won the Player of the Tie award for winning the women’s singles match.
As anticipation builds for the next season of the IPBL after the grand success of its first edition, the imprint left by these players ensures that women will remain front and centre – inspiring both fans and aspiring players.
