Pocket FM, the world’s largest audio series platform, has announced a strategic partnership with Indian Open 2026, one of India’s largest Pickleball tournaments. The event is organised by Global Sports in Hyderabad, in collaboration with Pickl’Out and CrossCourts Sports Club. Set to begin on April 1st, 2026, the Indian Open Pickleball 2026 aims to bring together top players, fans, and a growing sports community in India.
Pickleball has been gaining traction among younger, digitally savvy audiences due to its fast pace, accessibility, and community appeal. Pocket FM similarly engages new-age listeners with immersive audio storytelling experiences. The partnership combines the sport’s rising popularity with the platform’s reach, creating opportunities for audience-first engagement.
Pocket FM will establish a visible presence across the tournament through a combination of on-ground and digital integrations. The brand will feature centre court branding, venue-wide visibility, presenting rights for select matches, mic branding, and player lounge branding. It will also integrate into the tournament’s live streaming and social media channels, appear on team jerseys, and activate across key fan touchpoints, enabling engagement with both on-site and online audiences.
With live streaming on YouTube and other platforms expected to reach large audiences, the partnership allows Pocket FM to engage a culturally plugged-in, young demographic at scale. This collaboration aligns with the brand’s strategy to connect with emerging cultural and sporting moments through high-impact partnerships.
Vineet Singh, SVP and global head – brand marketing and partnerships, Pocket FM, said, “At Pocket FM, we believe in opportunities that engage with audiences through cultural moments and communities that resonate strongly with today’s generation. Pickleball is building a strong connection with the young and engaged audiences in India, making Indian Open 2026 a compelling platform for us. This partnership allows us to connect with people in a meaningful way through strong on-ground presence and digital visibility, while reinforcing Pocket FM’s commitment to associating with events where passion, energy and community come together.”
Hemal Jain, founder of Global Sports, Indian Open 2026, added, “Indian Open Pickleball 2026 is envisioned as a landmark moment for Pickleball in India, bringing together top talent, passionate fans, and a rapidly expanding sporting community. Partnering with Pocket FM adds an exciting new dimension to that experience. As a brand that has built deep resonance with young audiences across the country, Pocket FM is a strong fit for the energy and ambition of this tournament. We look forward to creating a dynamic and memorable experience together for players and fans alike.”
Pocket FM has been steadily building its footprint in youth culture through collaborations that bring it closer to communities driven by passion and shared experiences. Its association with Indian Open 2026 represents another step in developing cultural relevance across emerging sports in India.
