The All India Pickleball Association (AIPA) has announced the 10th AIPA Nationals – Kochi, 2026 Powered by Skechers, Co-sponsored by Hemilton and YAIT, which will be held in Kochi, Kerala, from October 1–4, 2026, marking the first time that India’s premier national pickleball championship will be hosted in the state.
Hosted by the Federation of Pickleball Associations of Kerala (FPAK), the landmark edition is expected to bring together more than 1,000 athletes and certified officials representing more than 25 states and Union Territories, turning Kochi into the national meeting point for India’s rapidly expanding pickleball community.
From emerging junior players to seasoned 60+ competitors, the four day championship will showcase the depth and diversity of Indian pickleball across Men’s Singles, Women’s Singles, Men’s Doubles, Women’s Doubles and Mixed Doubles, across nine age categories.
More than a tournament, the 10th Nationals represents a significant moment in the evolution of pickleball in India, a sport that has steadily moved from a niche recreational activity to a competitive sport attracting players, families, academies, communities and a growing sporting ecosystem across the country.
The Kochi edition follows nine successful National Championships held across India, with the previous edition taking place in Jammu in 2025. Bringing the 10th edition to Kerala reflects the sport’s expanding footprint in southern India and AIPA’s efforts to take competitive pickleball beyond its traditional centres and closer to new players and sporting communities.
With Kochi’s international connectivity, sporting infrastructure and growing reputation as a destination for sports and tourism, Kerala provides a unique setting for the milestone championship. The tournament will also provide an opportunity to showcase Kerala as a sporting destination while bringing athletes, coaches, officials, families and pickleball enthusiasts together from across the country.
Speaking about the landmark edition, Arvind Prabhoo, President, All India Pickleball Association (AIPA), said: “The 10th National Championship is a very special milestone for us. What started as an emerging sport has grown into a nationwide movement, with players and communities from across India embracing pickleball. Bringing the Nationals to Kerala for the first time is a reflection of that growth and our vision of taking the sport to every part of the country. Kochi will give us the opportunity to celebrate our champions, discover the next generation of players and showcase the scale and energy of Indian pickleball.”
“Hosting the 10th National Pickleball Championship in Kerala is a tremendous opportunity for us to showcase the sport’s growing popularity in the state and across South India. With players from more than 25 states and Union Territories coming to Kochi, we are looking forward to a truly national celebration of pickleball. The multi-court format will bring high intensity competition to the city, while giving our young players an invaluable opportunity to compete alongside and against some of the country’s leading talent. We hope this championship inspires more youngsters to take up the sport and becomes an important chapter in Kerala’s growing sporting journey.”
Mr. Jacob Bijo Daniel, President, Federation of Pickleball Associations of Kerala (FPAK)
The 10th National Pickleball Championship will take place in Kochi from October 1–4, 2026, bringing together India’s best pickleball talent for four days of competition, community and celebration.
About All India Pickleball Association (AIPA)
Founded in 2008, the All India Pickleball Association (AIPA) is one of the pioneers of pickleball in India and has played a key role in developing and promoting the sport across the country. Through national championships, player development, grassroots initiatives and international participation, AIPA continues to work towards expanding the reach and competitive ecosystem of pickleball in India.
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