Dev Shah: Rising Star in Indian Pickleball
Dev Shah's Journey into Pickleball
Dev Shah, who grew up with a passion for football and cricket, never imagined he would find his calling in racquet sports. However, in 2022, the global surge of pickleball caught his attention. The sport's simplicity and engaging nature drew him in, and he quickly became enamored with it. Since then, he has been dedicated to mastering the game.
Ahmedabad has emerged as a vibrant hub for pickleball in India, providing Dev with the perfect environment to develop his skills. His hard work has paid off, as he is now recognized as one of the most promising young players in the country, boasting an impressive collection of 17 medals, including nine golds, in just four years.
Achievements and Training
In 2024, Dev was selected by Dhiren Patel, the national coach, and Suryaveer Singh Bhullar, president of the Indian Pickleball Association, to join the Dinkers Pickleball Academy, which serves as India's National Centre of Excellence. Under Patel's mentorship, Dev has significantly improved his skills and tactical understanding of the game.
Last year, he won a gold medal in the Under 34 Men's Singles (5.0) category at the Pickleball World Cup and excelled at the IPA Nationals in Bengaluru, securing two golds in U18 doubles and mixed doubles. His international success continued with 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 in various categories. He then traveled to Tanzania, where he clinched the Mixed Doubles gold medal, further solidifying his reputation.
As the IPA Selection Trials approach, Dev is preparing to compete in multiple categories, focusing on his strengths in doubles, where he has won seven of his nine gold medals. He feels confident following his recent performances and is committed to training hard for the upcoming trials.
Mindset and Future Aspirations
Dev is aware of the tough competition he will face at the trials, with several talented players vying for a spot. However, he remains focused on his preparation and is determined not to succumb to pressure. He believes that hard work will yield positive results.
Looking ahead to the Pickleball World Cup in Vietnam, Dev is optimistic about his chances, drawing on his international experiences to adapt to the competition. He is also on the radar of franchises for the upcoming Indian Pickleball League, and a successful World Cup could enhance his prospects.