The US Open Pickleball Championship held in Florida from April 14-20, 2024, witnessed a remarkable performance by the Indian contingent, winning a total of 10 medals. The star of India’s campaign was undoubtedly Stavya Bhasin, who ended the championship with four medals – one gold, two silver, and one bronze.
Pickleball, a paddle sport played on a court similar to badminton, using a solid paddle and a plastic ball with holes, has been gaining popularity in India. The players volley the ball over the net, aiming to score points by landing it within the opposing court.
Stavya Bhasin led the charge at the US Pickleball Championship
Stavya Bhasin clinched the gold medal in junior singles, showcasing his exceptional talent and skill. In addition to his gold medal, Bhasin also won a silver medal in the men’s doubles 5.0 category and a bronze each in the junior men’s doubles and junior mixed doubles. His performance was a significant contribution to India’s overall medal tally.
Other notable performances included Dhiren Patel and Hemal Jain, who also won gold medals. Patel topped the men’s singles 5.0, and Jain won the yellow metal in the men’s singles 3.5 category. Their victories further bolstered India’s standing in the championship.
Ronav Motiani secured two silver medals — one each in men’s doubles 5.0 and junior singles — as well as a bronze in the junior men’s doubles category. In men’s singles 5.0, Himanshu Dewaskar won a bronze medal. Both Harsh Mehta and Aman Bhatia finished fifth in men’s pro doubles.
The success of the Indian team at the US Open Pickleball Championship is a significant milestone for the sport in India. It not only highlights the growing popularity of pickleball in the country but also showcases the potential and talent of Indian athletes on the global stage.
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