The World Pickleball League 2026, or WPBL Season 2, marks a pivotal moment for pickleball in India and globally. This franchise-based league blends high-stakes competition with entertainment, drawing top talent from around the world to Mumbai’s Jio World Garden.
What is WPBL?
The World Pickleball League (WPBL) is India’s first professional franchise pickleball competition, organized under the All India Pickleball Association (AIPA). Founded in 2024 by former tennis players Gaurav Natekar and Arati Ponnappa Natekar, it aims to build a thriving pickleball community in India while promoting the sport internationally.
WPBL partners with AIPA and SETVI to integrate sport, entertainment, culture, and lifestyle, creating a “sportainment” experience. Its mission focuses on grassroots growth, elite competition, and fan engagement to inspire future generations.
History and Background
World Pickleball League launched its inaugural Season 1 in 2025 from January 24 to February 2 at Mumbai’s Cricket Club of India, featuring six teams and 90 matches. Bengaluru Jawans clinched the title by defeating Pune United 3-1 in the final, showcasing intense rivalries from the start.
Pickleball has exploded in India, with a 159% player growth from 2019-2022, fueled by affordable courts and AIPA initiatives. Globally, over 5 million players span 84 countries, positioning WPBL as a key driver in Asia’s rise.
WPBL Season 2 Overview
World Pickleball League 2026 runs from January 24 to February 8 at Jio World Garden, expanding to 120 matches over 13 days. Announced post-Season 1 success, it introduces Jaipur Djinns as the seventh team, boosting regional engagement in Rajasthan.
This growth reflects WPBL’s momentum, with sharper drafts and more international players. The league stage kicked off January 27 with Bengaluru Jawans vs. Pune United, building toward the February 8 finale.
Teams and Structure
World Pickleball League 2026 features seven franchises in a round-robin league format, where teams earn 3 points for outright wins and 2 for tiebreaker victories. The top teams advance to playoffs, with all five games per match played for full points.
Each match includes tiered doubles (Games 1-3), a rotating Doubles Dream Maker (Game 4), and Singles Dream Breaker (Game 5). Here’s the team list with notable owners:
Celebrity owners add star power, enhancing fan appeal through their involvement.
Draft and Player Talent
The November 2025 draft selected 56 players from 114 entrants across 18 countries and five continents, emphasizing global diversity. Teams built balanced squads with marquee picks like Kat Stewart (Bengaluru Jawans) and Vanshik Kapadia (Pune United).
This international mix elevates competition, blending veterans and emerging talents. Examples include players from the US, Australia, and Europe, ensuring high-level play.
Venue: Jio World Garden
Jio World Garden in Mumbai hosts World Pickleball League Season 2, chosen for its premium facilities and capacity for immersive experiences. After Season 1 at CCI, this shift affirms the league’s ambition for larger crowds and “sportainment.”
The venue supports vibrant atmospheres with entertainment zones, ideal for international events. It enables better fan access and pop-up activities.
Broadcast and Streaming
Sony LIV streams all 120 matches live and on-demand, with Eurosport India on TV for broader reach. Fans worldwide access highlights and digital content via the platform.
This partnership expands WPBL’s audience, targeting mobile viewers and new fans. Gaurav Natekar highlighted its role in global appeal.
Fan Engagement and Sportainment
WPBL fuses sport with pop culture through celebrity owners and live events. Initiatives like WPBL On Tour host 50+ grassroots tournaments and camps across India, fostering community ties.
Franchises run open events for all skill levels, while venue spectacles include music and interactions. This builds loyalty beyond matches.
Sponsorship and Commercial Growth
Komerz India serves as an exclusive sponsor, driving activations and visibility. Other partners include Volvo (mobility), Barclays Private Bank, ABI Health, and Dove Men’s Care.
These deals signal WPBL’s scalability, funding grassroots and premium experiences for sustained growth.
Impact on Pickleball in India
World Pickleball League boosts grassroots via On Tour and AIPA partnerships, like INR 50 million for 100 courts in Tier 2/3 cities. It elevates India’s global standing amid 159% growth.
Local talents gain exposure, paving paths for pros. The league sponsors city tournaments, nurturing talent pipelines.
Also check: Pickleball World Cup 2025 Results
Challenges and Future Outlook
World Pickleball League faces hurdles like infrastructure needs and competition from established sports. Player retention and venue scalability pose issues in rapid expansion.
Plans include eight teams by 2027, more international outreach, and ecosystem building. Success in Season 2 could solidify its position.
WPBL Season 2 current standings and results.
World Pickleball League Season 2 standings are available from official updates as of late January 2026, with Bengaluru Jawans leading after key wins. Specific results include Bengaluru Jawans defeating Mumbai Pickle Power 3-2 on January 29 and Chennai Super Champs dominating Mumbai Pickle Power to claim the top spot earlier.
Current Standings
Detailed league tables are emerging on official channels, but as of February 1 (post several matches), Bengaluru Jawans top the table following their victory over Mumbai. No full points table was in search snippets; check wpbl.org for live updates.
Recent key results:
- Bengaluru Jawans 3-2 Mumbai Pickle Power (Jan 29): Brandon Lane won two doubles for Mumbai, but Jawans prevailed.
- Chennai Super Champs beat Mumbai Pickle Power (late Jan): Secured top position temporarily.
- Mumbai Pickle Power vs Dilli Dillwale (Jan 28): Highlights available, outcome not detailed in sources.
FAQs
What is the World Pickleball League?
When is WPBL 2026?
January 24 to February 8, 2026, at Jio World Garden, Mumbai.
How many teams compete?
How is franchise ownership structured?
What makes WPBL different?
Is WPBL helping pickleball grow in India?
Yes, via events, courts, and 159% player surge.
Conclusion
World Pickleball League 2026 elevates pickleball through expansion, talent, and engagement. As WPBL Season 2 unfolds, it cements the sport’s global evolution. Fans can dive in via streams or events to fuel this passion.
