As a child, Gowtham Ramesh dreamed of wearing India’s cricket colors. He played often, worked hard, and imagined a career on the pitch. But life had other plans. Financial struggles pushed him toward academics, and he went on to become a chartered accountant. Still, his love for sports never left his heart. ❤️
Then, almost by accident, he discovered pickleball — and everything changed.
👉 “My pickleball journey began when Karnataka Secretary Rajat Kankar came to my college and gave us a demo,” Gowtham recalls. “That was about five years ago.”
At first, he played casually in Nagarbhavi. But after witnessing the fierce competition at the Indian Open in Rajasthan, Gowtham realized he could aim higher. “Even at this age, I felt I could still become a professional player.”
🎾 A Sport on the Rise
To him, pickleball carries the same energy cricket once did. “In three to four years, I see pickleball booming in India and worldwide. After cricket, it has the potential to be the next big thing. The beauty is that anyone, from 8 to 80, can play competitively.”
Winning the men’s doubles title at the Pickleball Now Grand Prix in Bangalore with his partner and college friend, Ranjit Kupli, only fueled this belief. “The atmosphere was incredible. Events like this inspire both pros and newcomers. I truly believe pickleball will one day be in the Olympics.”
He also credits the Indian Pickleball Association (IPA) for bringing structure and opportunities. “They’re professional and systematic. The Nationals in Bangalore will be another big step forward.”
🤝 The Power of Partnership
Gowtham and Ranjit’s doubles success comes down to more than skill — it’s friendship. “Doubles is about trust, coordination, and communication. When pressure builds, our bond helps us push through.”
And when things get tough? Gowtham leans on his mantra: “Never give up till the end. Even if you’re down, you can always come back.” 💪
From cricket fields to pickleball courts, Gowtham Ramesh has found his true calling — proving that with passion and persistence, a new dream can always be born. 🌟