Former Indian Tennis Star Isha Lakhani Finds New Passion in Pickleball; Wins Gold at World Championship
Taking up a new sport at 37 is no easy feat, but what’s even more remarkable is winning a World Championship medal at 39.
This is exactly what India’s former tennis star Isha Lakhani accomplished when she secured a gold medal in the 35+ Women’s Doubles event at the Bali leg of the World Pickleball Championship earlier this month.
Supported by the All India Pickleball Association (AIPA), Isha teamed up with Vrushali to claim victory in the 35+ Women’s Doubles.
It was a triumphant event for India, with Vanshik Kapadia also taking home gold in the men’s singles.
“The sport is expanding rapidly, and we’re getting plenty of opportunities to travel and gain exposure, thanks to the All India Pickleball Association.
They’ve supported us in every way,” Isha told IANS in an exclusive interview after her win.
Isha is optimistic about the future of pickleball in India.
Her confidence was validated during the Bali championship, where Vrushali and Vanshik also secured a silver in the mixed doubles.
In the fiercely contested team event, India took home the gold in a format that included men’s doubles, mixed doubles, and women’s doubles matches.
As the most seasoned member of the Indian team, Isha played a crucial role in these victories.
With over a decade of international tennis experience, she has won four ITF singles titles and seven doubles titles.
Her highest rankings were No. 291 in singles and No. 371 in doubles, achieved in December 2008.
So, why did Isha transition to pickleball after more than ten years away from competitive tennis and a coaching career?
She credits a friend who suggested she give the sport a try, as there were pickleball courts near her tennis club.
“She said, ‘Why don’t you try it out? It seems like a fun sport. You’ll enjoy it.’ So, I decided to give it a shot,” Isha explained.
What drew Isha to pickleball were the similarities to tennis.
Although the court, net, and playing area are smaller in pickleball, some strokes are comparable, which made the transition easier for Isha, thanks to her tennis muscle memory.
Now that she’s chosen pickleball at 39, how long does she plan to continue playing?
Isha believes age is just a number and sees herself playing for another eight to nine years.
She draws inspiration from international players like Megan Fudge and Susanna Burr, who continue to compete well into their 40s. “As long as your body supports you, it’s possible to play at any age. There are so many age categories in pickleball, like 35+, 50+, and more,” she said.
While pickleball’s slower pace compared to tennis initially attracted her, Isha noted that the sport has grown more complex due to its unique rules, making it challenging to master.
Now, after tasting success in pickleball—considered the fastest-growing sport in the U.S.—she aims to achieve more and inspire the next generation of players in India.
Supported by AIPA, Isha is excited for the future of pickleball in India. “The exposure and training programs are something we’re all focused on. We just keep going at it,” she said.
Having officially retired from tennis a decade ago, Isha advises young pickleball players to stay motivated, follow a proper training regimen, and manage their time on the court wisely.
“It’s such an addictive sport that you can easily spend hours playing without realizing it. I recommend that players pace themselves, train smartly, and consider pickleball as a serious career option,” she added.
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