Former tennis star Nitten Kirrtane made a historic impact by winning two gold medals for India at the 2025 Pickleball World Cup in Florida. Triumphing in the 50+ Men's Singles and Doubles categories, Kirrtane underlined India’s growing prominence in global pickleball with his exceptional performance.
Key Highlights
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Kirrtane wins gold in 50+ Men's Singles and 50+ Men's Doubles at Pickleball World Cup
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Partnered with Suryaveer Bhullar, President of Indian Pickleball Association, in doubles
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Former Davis Cup tennis player became first Indian to secure world titles in both tennis and pickleball
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Training involved rigorous drilling, gym workouts, and focused preparation for peak performance
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Kirrtane highlights synergy between tennis and pickleball, enhancing skills across both sports
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Emphasizes growing potential and popularity of pickleball in India and worldwide
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Team India finished 7th overall at the World Cup with a total of 25 medals
Detailed Report
Nitten Kirrtane, once a celebrated Davis Cup tennis player from Pune, etched his name in sporting history by clinching two gold medals at the Pickleball World Cup 2025 held in Florida, USA. Winning in the highly competitive 50+ Men's Singles and Doubles categories (alongside IPA President Suryaveer Bhullar), Kirrtane became the first Indian athlete to secure world championships in both tennis and pickleball.
Kirrtane’s transition to pickleball has been seamless and strategic, leveraging the complementarity between both sports. Intensive daily training, both on the court and physically in the gym, equipped him to peak exactly during the tournament.
His victories not only symbolize personal excellence but also highlight India’s emergence as a force in this rapidly growing international sport. Kirrtane calls for greater recognition and support for pickleball players akin to cricketers, emphasizing the sport’s inclusive and social appeal.
India concluded the World Cup campaign with eight golds, eight silvers, and nine bronze medals, finishing among the top ten nations and singularly representing Asia at this elite global event.
Sources: Indian Express, Pune Mirror, Tribune India, Times Now News