Brisbane 2032: Aiming for Pickleball's Olympic Inclusion, Says Aditya Khanna

The sport of pickleball is witnessing an extraordinary surge in popularity, prompting its governing bodies to aim for a significant milestone: securing a place in the Olympic Games. Although pickleball has yet to be included in the Olympic roster, Aditya Khanna, who serves as the Treasurer of the Global Pickleball Federation and the Secretary of the Asian Pickleball Association, views the Brisbane 2032 Olympics as a pivotal opportunity for the sport to make its debut on one of the world's grandest athletic stages. In a recent interview, Khanna expressed optimism, stating, "The idea is 2032 Brisbane or 2036." He emphasized that given the sport's strong following in Australia, there is a chance it could be featured at the 2032 Olympics, even if it does not achieve full Olympic status by then.

Currently, pickleball is experiencing unparalleled growth on a global scale, with rising participation rates in regions such as North America, Europe, and Asia. In India, the sport's expansion has been particularly noteworthy, transcending traditional metropolitan areas like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru to gain traction in smaller cities as well. However, Khanna cautions that mere popularity is insufficient for Olympic inclusion. The sport must fulfill a series of criteria set forth by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) before it can be considered for the Games. These requirements include obtaining governmental recognition in over 70 countries, establishing standardized international rules, hosting recognized World Championships, creating a structured international tour, adhering to World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) regulations, and implementing comprehensive educational programs. "Not just playing is important," Khanna noted. "There have to be globally recognized competitions, standardized rules, and national recognition across countries." Additionally, pickleball must secure a presence in major multi-sport events such as the Commonwealth Games and SEA Games to enhance its chances of Olympic inclusion.