Chennai, November 2025 — Actor-entrepreneur Samantha Ruth Prabhu unveiled the Chennai Super Champs’ new World Pickleball League (WPBL) Season 2 jersey at the inaugural Chennai Open, held at Sathyabama University. The sunrise-themed design celebrates Chennai’s cultural identity, while the tournament marks a milestone for Indian pickleball with its record-breaking prize pool.
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Chennai Open Tournament Overview
| Tournament Details | Figures |
|---|---|
| Total Registrations | 500+ participants |
| Competition Categories | 46 categories |
| Prize Pool | ₹25 Lacs (India’s biggest) |
| Venue | Sathyabama University (6 indoor courts) |
| Finals Date | November 16, 2025 |
| League Season 2 Start | January 2026, Jio World Garden, Mumbai |
Jersey Design Reflects Chennai’s Heritage
The new jersey incorporates elements deeply rooted in Chennai’s identity. An orange-to-yellow gradient represents the sunrise over the Bay of Bengal, symbolizing optimism and new beginnings for the franchise. Subtle kolam-inspired micro-patterns honor Tamil Nadu’s artistic heritage, while bold red accents reflect fire, movement and speed.
“Every time I step into Sathyabama University, I am reminded of why this partnership matters,” said Samantha Ruth Prabhu, Chennai Super Champs owner. “Chennai loves its sport loud, proud, and with heart. This new jersey is our way of carrying that emotion onto the world stage.”
The design philosophy aligns with the team’s vision of inclusivity, youth participation and empowerment—values reflected in the franchise’s grassroots initiatives.
Record-Breaking Tournament Launches Pickleball Movement
The Chennai Open represents a significant milestone for Indian pickleball. With over 500 registrations and India’s largest-ever pickleball prize pool of ₹25 lacs, the tournament demonstrates the sport’s rapidly growing appeal in southern India.
Dr. Mariazeena Johnson, Chancellor of Sathyabama University, emphasized the partnership’s impact: “We are proud to host Chennai Super Champs once again on our campus and to see pickleball thrive here through the Chennai Open. The university’s state-of-the-art indoor pickleball courts have become a hub for young athletes.”
Strengthening Grassroots Development
The collaboration between Chennai Super Champs and Sathyabama University extends beyond professional competition. Six dedicated indoor courts, regular grassroots programs, and flagship initiatives like the Chennai Open are driving pickleball development across the region.
Himank Duvvuru, Chennai Super Champs co-owner, highlighted the franchise’s community-focused approach: “Season 2 is a step up in every sense—stronger team and a bigger vision for how we want Chennai to engage with pickleball. What excites us is how naturally the sport is growing here.”
The partnership provides young athletes access to world-class facilities and training, encouraging students to explore new sporting pathways while building a sustainable pickleball ecosystem in Chennai.
International Squad for Season 2
Chennai Super Champs will debut their new jersey at WPBL Season 2 in January 2026, featuring an international roster:
Players: Sonu Vishwakarma (India), Tanner Tomassi (USA), Simone Jardim (Brazil), Ly Hoang Nam (Vietnam), Carlota Trevino (Mexico), Rika Fujiwara (Japan), Do Minh Quan (Vietnam), Tea Pejic (Croatia)
Head Coach: Johnny Goldberg (USA)
The diverse squad reflects the franchise’s ambition to compete at the highest level while representing Chennai’s cosmopolitan sporting culture. For more updates on Chennai’s sports scene, follow TechnoSports.
