Explained: This article explains the political background, key decisions, and possible outcomes related to Explained : Saina Nehwal Backs Pickleball Growth in India, Avoids Politics and Its Impact and why it matters right now.
Olympic medallist Saina Nehwal has expressed optimism about the future of pickleball in India as the sport gains momentum nationwide. The former world number one badminton player is the brand ambassador for India’s inaugural CXO Pickleball League, established by RJ Anmol. The league combines business, fitness and networking for leading corporate figures and is expanding to cities including Mumbai, New Delhi and Bengaluru.
Speaking at the CXO Pickleball League event in New Delhi, Nehwal said she was pleased to remain involved in sports following her retirement from badminton in January. “I have retired. Last year, I had a talk with Anmol. He wanted to start a Pickleball League. We had a talk before my retirement. I am very happy that I have joined a sport again. CXO Pickleball League is doing very well. It has done very well in Mumbai. I am sure it will do very well in Delhi. So many players are coming to play. I enjoy watching sports and watching matches. Anyway, it is very good. Pickleball is becoming very popular in our country. Many people are playing. If they want to play in a competitive way, I think this league will help them a lot,” she said.
Pickleball has experienced swift growth in India recently, notably following the COVID-19 pandemic, with multiple leagues emerging across the country. Nehwal noted the competitive nature of the sport and the importance of staying active throughout the year, adding: “Many people are taking it as a competition. So many leagues will help them. They should be active for the whole year. They should take care of their health. If they want to become a champion, it will help them in terms of fitness. They will eat well and become champions.”
Founded by RJ Anmol, the CXO Pickleball League is among the foremost pickleball competitions in India, and Nehwal expressed high hopes for the initiative. Regarding her role as the league’s brand ambassador, she explained, “I had done a podcast with Anmol. We became friends at that time. Later on, he thought that he wanted to start a league. He thought that Saina, as a sportsperson will get along well with Pickleball. So he approached me in that way.”
Nehwal also addressed speculation concerning her political future, stating she does not intend to engage in active politics soon. “I have been with the BJP since 2020. I participate in their events for women’s empowerment and sports. I go wherever they need me. But I have not joined politics actively. I have just retired from sports. I want to stay connected to sports and promote sports in India. Let’s see how the mentality changes year by year or after a few years. If I am destined to join politics, I will definitely come,” she remarked.