Dev Shah: Rising Star in Indian Pickleball
Dev Shah's Journey into Pickleball
Dev Shah's early years were not filled with dreams of racquet sports; instead, he was more inclined towards football and cricket. However, everything changed in 2022 when pickleball began to gain immense popularity worldwide. The sport's straightforward nature and engaging gameplay attracted many, including Dev, who soon found himself captivated by it. He picked up a paddle and has been dedicated to the sport ever since.
As Ahmedabad emerged as a key center for pickleball in India, Dev's enthusiasm for the game intensified. The city provided him with ample opportunities to refine his skills, leading to remarkable achievements. At just 17 years old, he has already secured 85 medals, with 41 of them being gold. His recent accomplishments include winning 17 medals, nine of which are gold, in just the past seven months.
Training and Achievements
In 2024, Dev was recognized by India's national coach Dhiren Patel and Suryaveer Singh Bhullar, the president of the Indian Pickleball Association, and was admitted to the Dinkers Pickleball Academy, which serves as India's National Centre of Excellence. Under Dhiren's expert guidance, Dev's skills and tactical understanding have significantly improved. He remarked, "Transitioning from football and cricket to pickleball was a challenge, but with Dhiren sir's mentorship, I adapted well."
Last year, Dev showcased his talent at the Pickleball World Cup, winning gold in the Under 34 Men's Singles (5.0) category. He continued his success at the IPA Nationals in Bengaluru, where he clinched two gold medals in U18 doubles and mixed doubles. His international experience also includes a medal at the Pickleball World Championships in Dallas in 2025.
Recent Performances and Upcoming Trials
Recently, Dev achieved a remarkable feat by winning three gold medals at the Madhya Pradesh Open, a PWR 400 event, in various categories. He then traveled to Tanzania, where he secured a gold medal in Mixed Doubles at the end of May.
With the IPA Selection Trials for junior players approaching, Dev is preparing to compete in singles, doubles, and mixed doubles categories. He has excelled in doubles, winning seven of his nine gold medals in this format since November 2025. Dev expressed confidence in his abilities, stating, "I believe my doubles game is strong, and I am ready for the trials after my recent performances in Tanzania."
Looking Ahead to the World Cup
The U18 category is highly competitive, featuring talented players like Arjun Singh and Kiaan Contractor. Despite the pressure, Dev remains focused on performing his best without succumbing to stress. He stated, "I have trained hard and will approach the trials with a positive mindset, hoping for the best outcomes."
Should he be selected for the upcoming Pickleball World Cup in Da Nang, Vietnam, Dev is optimistic about his chances. He believes that his international exposure will be crucial in adapting to the competition. He noted, "I will rely on my experiences from previous tournaments and play to my strengths." As the Indian Pickleball League prepares for its second season, Dev's impressive track record positions him as a strong candidate for potential franchise interest.