Saina Nehwal Becomes Co-Owner of Keerthi Warriors in HPL, as Reported by The Hans India

Saina Nehwal Joins Hyderabad Pickleball League as Co-Owner

Hyderabad, India – September 7, 2025 – In a surprising move demonstrating the growing appeal of Pickleball, Badminton icon Saina Nehwal has officially become a co-owner of the Keerthi Warriors franchise in the Hyderabad Pickleball League.This proclamation marks a significant endorsement of Pickleball’s rising popularity within the indian sports landscape.

A Champion’s New Venture

The legendary Badminton player, known for her exceptional athleticism and competitive spirit, will bring her expertise and passion to the burgeoning sport of Pickleball.This investment signifies Nehwal’s belief in the potential of the Hyderabad Pickleball League and the future growth of Pickleball in India. According to the USA Pickleball association, Pickleball is the fastest-growing sport in the United states, experiencing a surge in participation in recent years.

Nehwal’s involvement is anticipated to attract a broader audience to the league and inspire greater participation in Pickleball across all age groups. This strategic partnership blends the prestige of a celebrated athlete with the dynamic energy of a rapidly expanding sport.

Hyderabad Pickleball League: A Rising Force

The Hyderabad Pickleball League aims to provide a platform for both amateur and professional Pickleball players to showcase their skills and compete at a high level. The league’s increasing visibility and the involvement of a prominent figure like Saina Nehwal are expected to elevate its status within the Indian sporting community. In 2024, Pickleball saw a 35.5% increase in participation,showcasing its growing influence globally.

Did You Know? Pickleball is a paddle sport that combines elements of badminton, tennis, and table tennis. It’s played on a smaller court with a lower net, making it accessible to players of all ages and skill levels.

The growing Appeal of Pickleball

Pickleball’s accessibility and social nature have contributed to its rapid rise in popularity. The sport’s relatively simple rules and low barrier to entry make it attractive to individuals seeking a fun and engaging physical activity. This is further reinforced by the increasing number of dedicated Pickleball courts being established across the country.

Sport	Court Size	Equipment Cost	Difficulty Level
Pickleball	20ft x 44ft	$50 – $200	Beginner-Amiable
Tennis	78ft x 27ft (Singles) / 36ft (Doubles)	$100 – $500	Intermediate-Advanced
Badminton	17.6m x 6.1m	$30 – $150	Intermediate

What are yoru thoughts on Saina Nehwal’s investment in Pickleball? Do you see Pickleball becoming a mainstream sport in India?

Pickleball: A sport for All ages

Pickleball’s growing popularity isn’t limited to a specific age group. It’s a sport that appeals to seniors, families, and young adults alike, offering a low-impact workout and a social environment. The sport’s inclusivity is a major driver of its continued expansion. Organizations like the Association of Pickleball Professionals (APP) are fostering professional tournaments and promoting the sport worldwide.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pickleball

What is Pickleball?

Pickleball is a paddle sport combining elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis, played on a smaller court with a lower net.

Why is pickleball so popular?

Pickleball is popular due to its accessibility, social nature, and relatively easy-to-learn rules.

How does Saina Nehwal’s involvement benefit Pickleball?

Saina Nehwal’s involvement brings prestige and wider recognition to Pickleball, potentially attracting more players and investment.

What equipment is needed to play Pickleball?

You’ll need a Pickleball paddle, a Pickleball (similar to a wiffle ball), and appropriate court shoes.

Where can I learn more about the Hyderabad Pickleball League?

Information about the Hyderabad Pickleball League can be found on their official website or through local sports organizations.

Share your thoughts on this exciting development in the comments below!

What motivated Saina Nehwal to transition from a badminton champion to a co-owner in a professional boxing league like the HPL?

Saina Nehwal Joins HPL: Co-Owning the Keerthi Warriors

Badminton Legend Enters the World of Professional Boxing

As reported by The Hans India on September 7th, 2025, Indian badminton icon Saina Nehwal has taken a significant step into a new sporting arena, becoming a co-owner of the Keerthi Warriors franchise in the highly anticipated Himalayan Professional League (HPL). This marks Nehwal’s first foray into sports ownership, diversifying her portfolio beyond her illustrious athletic career.The HPL, a burgeoning professional boxing league in India, is gaining traction for its commitment to promoting boxing talent from the Himalayan region and beyond.

Understanding the Himalayan Professional League (HPL)

The HPL aims to provide a platform for emerging boxing stars, especially those hailing from the Himalayan states.Key features of the league include:

Regional Focus: Prioritizing talent revelation and advancement within the Himalayan region (Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Sikkim, Arunachal pradesh, Manipur, mizoram, Nagaland, and Meghalaya).

professional Structure: Offering boxers a structured pathway to professional success with regular competitions, training facilities, and financial stability.

Nationwide Broadcast: Increasing the visibility of Indian boxing through televised matches and digital streaming.

Keerthi Warriors Franchise: One of the eight founding franchises, representing a key geographical area and aiming to build a strong local fanbase.

Saina Nehwal’s Investment and Vision for the Keerthi Warriors

Nehwal’s investment in the Keerthi Warriors isn’t merely financial. she brings a wealth of experience as a world-class athlete, understanding the dedication, discipline, and support system required for success.

Athlete-Centric Approach: Nehwal has publicly stated her intention to prioritize the well-being and development of the boxers within the Keerthi Warriors team.

Mentorship Role: Expect Nehwal to actively engage with the team, offering guidance and mentorship based on her own experiences navigating the pressures of professional sports.

Promoting Grassroots Boxing: A key objective is to identify and nurture young boxing talent from the Himalayan region, providing them with opportunities they might not otherwise have.

Brand Building: Nehwal’s association substantially elevates the profile of the Keerthi Warriors and the HPL as a whole, attracting sponsors and increasing viewership.

Impact on Indian Boxing & sports Ownership Trends

This move by Saina Nehwal reflects a growing trend of prominent athletes investing in sports franchises and contributing to the development of sports ecosystems in India.

Increased Investment: More athletes are recognizing the potential for growth and impact within sports ownership.

Raising the Profile of Niche Sports: Nehwal’s involvement will undoubtedly boost the visibility of boxing,particularly the HPL,attracting a wider audience.

Inspiring Future Generations: Her commitment to supporting young athletes serves as an inspiration for aspiring boxers and other sports enthusiasts.

HPL Growth Potential: The league is poised for significant growth with increased investment and celebrity endorsements. Expect further franchise expansions and talent acquisition in the coming seasons.

Keerthi Warriors: Team Details and Upcoming Schedule

While the full roster of the Keerthi Warriors is still being finalized, the team is expected to feature a mix of established and emerging boxing talent. Details regarding the team’s training camp and upcoming matches will be announced shortly on the official HPL website and social media channels. Fans can follow the Keerthi Warriors’ journey and Saina Nehwal’s involvement through:

Official HPL Website: [Hypothetical HPL Website Link]

Keerthi Warriors Social Media: [Hypothetical Keerthi Warriors Social Media Links]

Saina Nehwal’s Social Media: Stay updated on her insights and involvement via her official accounts.

Saina Nehwal’s Career Highlights – A Fast Recap

To understand the significance of Nehwal’s move, it’s critically important to acknowledge her remarkable achievements in badminton:

Olympic Bronze Medalist (2012 London Olympics): A historic achievement for Indian badminton.

World Championships Silver Medalist (2015): The first Indian to reach the final of the world Championships.

Multiple Superseries Titles: Dominating the international badminton circuit for years.

Former World No. 1: Reaching the pinnacle of the sport.

Padma Bhushan & Arjuna Award Recipient: Recognized for her contributions to Indian sports.