Pickleball Nepal Hosts First National Championship

In a landmark event for the sport, Pickleball Nepal successfully hosted its first-ever National Championship at the iconic Dasharath Stadium in Kathmandu. The three-day tournament, which concluded on Sunday, saw enthusiastic participation from over 200 players representing various regions of Nepal. Players competed across multiple categories, including men’s doubles, women’s doubles, and mixed doubles, making the event a grand spectacle of talent and competition.

The championship was officially inaugurated by the Minister of Youth and Sports, Anup Raj Joshi, who praised the rapid growth of pickleball in Nepal. "Sports like pickleball provide new opportunities for our youth. The government is committed to supporting emerging sports that encourage active lifestyles and community engagement," Joshi stated during his opening speech.

In the fiercely contested finals, Suman Karki and Arjun Basnet secured the men’s doubles title, while Manisha Shrestha and Priya Gurung triumphed in the women’s doubles. The mixed doubles title was claimed by the dynamic duo of Ramesh Shrestha and Sita Gurung, who displayed remarkable teamwork and skill. Winners were awarded trophies, medals, and cash prizes, recognizing their exceptional performances.

Beyond the competitive matches, the event also featured free coaching clinics for beginners, attracting a diverse crowd of aspiring players. An exhibition match between national champions and senior coaches was a highlight, providing the audience with a thrilling display of advanced skills and techniques.

Ramesh Thapa, President of Pickleball Nepal, expressed his gratitude to all participants, sponsors, and volunteers who made the event a success. "This championship is just the beginning. Our mission is to expand pickleball across Nepal, providing opportunities for players of all ages and skill levels," Thapa stated. Plans are already underway for regional tournaments, training programs, and a national ranking system, signaling a bright future for pickleball in Nepal.