Swiggy Acquires Team Mumbai in India’s World Pickleball League

Swiggy has announced its acquisition of Team Mumbai in the World Pickleball League (WPBL), India’s premier franchise-based pickleball competition. The WPBL, co-founded by former Indian tennis players Gaurav Natekar and Arati Ponnappa Natekar, is set to debut from January 24 to February 2, 2025.

Pickleball, one of the world's fastest-growing sports, is rapidly gaining popularity as both a recreational and lifestyle activity. With interest in the sport surging in India, Swiggy’s Mumbai team will be the second team officially announced for the league, following the Chennai franchise owned by actress Samantha Ruth Prabhu. The inaugural WPBL season, set to take place in Mumbai, provides Swiggy's team the opportunity to compete in front of a hometown crowd.

Swiggy’s involvement in the World Pickleball League aligns with its ongoing efforts to engage with consumers in innovative and meaningful ways, tapping into a sport that is attracting diverse audiences.

Rohit Kapoor, CEO of Swiggy Food Marketplace, expressed his excitement about the acquisition: “When we started discussing pickleball internally, I joked, ‘What’s a meal without a pickle!’ It’s a fun and accessible game that suits everyone, and I can imagine food stalls, joyful play, and families enjoying a fantastic weekend. Swiggy’s participation in WPBL is about embracing what makes Mumbai—and the world—turn. We’re excited to be part of this community-driven experience.”

Gaurav Natekar, co-founder and CEO of WPBL, shared his vision for the league: “We believe the World Pickleball League has the potential to become one of India’s most popular sports leagues in the next 3-5 years. Swiggy’s involvement as a team owner is a testament to the sport’s growing appeal. As one of India’s favorite brands, Swiggy will bring additional excitement and help us broaden the reach of pickleball, both for the league and the sport as a whole.”

This partnership marks a significant step for Swiggy as it ventures into the sports arena, bringing pickleball to a larger audience and highlighting its commitment to fostering emerging trends in the community.