Dhiren Patel Triumphs at Picklebay Zonals North, Eyes World Cup Selection

Dhiren Patel emerged victorious in the Men's Singles category at the Picklebay Zonals North, a crucial tournament for aspiring pickleball players. His journey to the title was marked by strategic adjustments and a light-hearted approach, making him a standout competitor. As he prepares for the upcoming Pickleball World Cup in Vietnam, Patel's blend of skill and sportsmanship has captured the attention of fans and selectors alike. Discover how he navigated challenges and embraced the competitive spirit in this exciting tournament.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 24, 2026, 23:41 IST

Dhiren Patel's Journey to Victory

Dhiren Patel showcased his strategic prowess, calm demeanor, and a touch of humor to clinch the Men's Singles title for players aged 40 and above at the Picklebay Zonals North. This event, recognized by the PWR 700 Indian Pickleball Association, is a pivotal tournament in India's pickleball scene and serves as a selection trial for the upcoming Pickleball World Cup in Da Nang, Vietnam, where athletes vie for a chance to represent India internationally.

Patel faced several hurdles on his path to victory. Reflecting on his semifinal match, he acknowledged that his initial strategy did not unfold as planned. "I aimed to approach the net and capitalize on easy high balls, but those chances came too quickly, leading me to miss several volleys," he explained. Instead of forcing the play, Patel adapted his strategy mid-match, deciding to stay back and focus on his baseline game.

"I began to put pressure on my opponent with my groundstrokes, which ultimately helped me turn the match around and secure the win," he noted. The final match was significantly easier for Patel, who achieved a decisive 15-4 victory. However, he emphasized that the score was never his primary focus. "I don’t concentrate on the score; I just play each point as it comes. If you maintain the right approach consistently, the score will reflect that, whether it’s 15-0 or 15-6," he stated.

Beyond the competitive aspect, Patel added a light-hearted touch to the tournament with his interactions with fans during the final. "I relish every moment, whether the crowd is supporting me or my opponent. I can even cheer for my rival," he shared. He found humor in the banter happening courtside, recalling how he leaned in to listen to his friends joking with his opponent. "When they switched to Marathi, I thought, 'Alright, I’m out of this conversation.'"

For Patel, these enjoyable moments are integral to the spirit of competition. "It’s all part of the fun and good sportsmanship," he concluded. With the title in hand and World Cup selection looming, Patel's mix of competitiveness, adaptability, and sportsmanship made him a standout figure in Gurgaon.