Nagaland hosts first pickleball tourney

The Nagaland Pickleball Association (NPA), in collaboration with the Indian Pickleball Association (IPA), have organised the 1st Nagaland Pickleball Open, a PWR 50 sanctioned event on Sunday, at Aiko Greens, Dimapur.
The tournament marked a historic milestone as the first official pickleball event in Nagaland, drawing 32 teams from across the state and neighbouring regions like Assam. With Men’s Doubles Open and Mixed Doubles categories, the event brought together a diverse lineup of players who demonstrated outstanding athleticism, teamwork, and competitive spirit.
In the men’s doubles open, Megotsolie Khate and Vilasier Khate emerged victorious and walk home with Rs. 15,000 cash and the champions’ trophy. The runners-up – Dilip Mohanty & Abyan Zaffar received a cash prize of Rs. 10,000 and runners-up trophies.
In mixed doubles, Dilip Mohanty and Nazneen Rahman clinched the title and received Rs. 10,000 cash and trophies.
The tournament was met with an enthusiastic crowd as numerous spectators gathered to witness this historic sporting occasion. The PWR 50 designation elevated the event’s national importance and further legitimized Nagaland’s presence on the Indian pickleball map.
The NPA expressed its deep gratitude to the Assam Pickleball Association for their ongoing support and partnership, which played a key role in the success of this inaugural event.
A special thanks also goes to Dilip Mohanty, who served as the tournament director, ensuring smooth coordination, expert oversight, and a high standard of professionalism throughout the competition.
This first edition of the Nagaland Pickleball Open stands as a testament to the sport’s growing momentum in the Northeast and the NPA’s commitment to building a vibrant, inclusive pickleball community in the state.