The World Pickleball League announced an exclusive digital streaming partnership with Sony LIV ahead of its highly anticipated Season 2, expanding the league’s digital footprint across India. All 120 matches will stream live and on-demand, offering seamless access to elite pickleball action featuring 56 world-class players from 18 nations competing over 13 days, up from 90 matches in the inaugural season.
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Celebrity-Owned Teams Drive Fan Engagement Strategy
Season 2 features seven teams owned by prominent celebrities including Samantha Ruth Prabhu (Chennai Super Champs), filmmaker Atlee (Bengaluru Jawans), cricketer Rishabh Pant (Mumbai Pickle Power), legend Sunil Gavaskar, Rakul Preet Singh, Jackky Bhagnani, and power couple Riteish and Genelia Deshmukh, bringing star power to India’s fastest-growing sport with over 50,000 active players.
| Season 2 Details | Expansion | Reach |
|---|---|---|
| Total Matches | 120 (up from 90) | 13-day tournament |
| International Players | 56 from 18 nations | World-class talent pool |
| Teams | 7 celebrity-owned franchises | Star-studded ownership |
| Streaming Access | Live + on-demand on Sony LIV | Mobile and connected devices |
| Affiliations | AIPA, AFP, UWPF | Global federation backing |
Seamless Multi-Device Access Targets Digital Audience
Gaurav Natekar, World Pickleball League Founder and CEO, emphasized the partnership enables reaching new audiences where they consume content today—on mobile and connected devices. Sony LIV’s robust OTT ecosystem targets India’s digitally engaged, young, and urban sports audience, offering behind-the-scenes content and key moments alongside comprehensive match coverage.
Rajesh Kaul, Chief Revenue Officer and Sports Business Head at Sony Pictures Networks India, noted pickleball’s first edition established the sport as a strong urban contender through high engagement across key metros. The platform delivers an immersive experience connecting with today’s digitally savvy and sports-loving generation through seamless live coverage.
The league’s affiliation with All India Pickleball Association, Asia Federation of Pickleball, and United World Pickleball Federation provides legitimacy and international recognition. Season 2 represents a significant leap with more teams, matches, and a growing pool of international and Indian talent, aligning perfectly with the league’s vision of building a scalable, fan-first competition with strong global appeal.
The partnership ensures comprehensive coverage across devices, eliminating barriers between fans and their favorite sport. With celebrity endorsements driving mainstream awareness and Sony LIV’s extensive distribution capabilities, WPBL Season 2 positions pickleball as a high-octane alternative to traditional racquet sports in India’s rapidly evolving sports landscape.
Discover Sony LIV’s sports coverage and explore more Indian sports league developments shaping the competitive entertainment market.
FAQs
How many matches will World Pickleball League Season 2 feature?
Season 2 includes 120 matches over 13 days, up from 90 matches in the inaugural season.
Where can fans watch World Pickleball League Season 2?
All 120 matches stream live and on-demand exclusively on Sony LIV across mobile and connected devices.
