Pickle Up Perfection: Shubham Khandelwal Edges Miheet Dhaneja To Lift U18 Crown

For a tournament that has quickly become a proving ground for junior players, this final underlined how fast the level is rising – and how small the margins now are at the top of the U18 field.

Final In Focus

Right from the opening exchanges, it was clear this was not going to be a one-sided contest. Shubham started strong, using aggressive third-shot drives and sharp cross-court angles to push Miheet behind the baseline. Miheet responded with patient rallies, trying to draw errors by extending points and testing Shubham’s shot selection under pressure.

The turning point came mid-match, when Shubham strung together a run of points off assertive returns and quick net transitions, breaking Miheet’s rhythm. From there, he protected his lead with disciplined serving and fewer unforced errors, closing out the contest with a combination of steady defence and timely winners.

What This Win Means

For Shubham, the title is more than just a trophy it signals his arrival as a serious contender in India’s junior pickleball circuit, and strengthens his case for national-level selection and international exposure. For Miheet, the final is a reminder that he is already within touching distance of the very top, with specific tactical and mental adjustments likely to turn future finals his way.

Pickle Up 4.0 also benefits from a marquee U18 final: a competitive, well-fought title match helps cement its reputation as a key stop on the junior calendar, attracting more players, sponsors and fans in coming editions.

Match Highlights

1. Shubham dominates key phases with aggressive returns and net play
2. Miheet pushes the match deep with consistency and long rallies
3. Momentum swing in the middle phase gives Shubham decisive edge
4. Win boosts Shubham’s standing in India’s U18 pickleball ecosystem
5. Final underscores rising depth and competitiveness in junior pickleball

Source: Times Now