The World Pickleball League (WPBL) will kick off its second season on January 27 in Mumbai, featuring an expanded roster of teams and new rivalries that heighten the excitement of India’s top franchise-based pickleball event. Defending champions Bengaluru Jawans will begin their journey against Pune United FC, looking to build on the momentum from their title-winning inaugural season.
Central to Bengaluru’s championship success last year was Katerina Stewart, who was named Player of the Tournament in WPBL Season 1. Her consistent performance and strategic insight were crucial as the Jawans claimed the first trophy. The team will be led by the experienced Oliver Strecker. As the league evolves and intensifies, Stewart returns in Bengaluru’s colors, aiming not only for a repeat title but also for a stronger and more sustainable team identity.
Stewart’s athletic journey has always focused on advancement. A former professional tennis player with a peak WTA singles ranking of 158, she switched to pickleball to seek new competitive challenges. This change has proven fruitful, as she now competes full-time on the PPA and APP tours, becoming one of the most steady singles players in the circuit, with multiple APP Tour gold medals, including at the Great Lakes Michigan Open, and wins against top competitors like Jorja Johnson and Mari Humberg.
“Pickleball rewards intent. You can’t drift through points. You have to be present, decisive and willing to adapt quickly. That’s what drew me to the sport,” she articulated.
Stewart’s influence on the WPBL last season extended beyond the scoreboard; her knack for reading matches and uplifting partners under pressure made her a key pillar for the Jawans. It is no coincidence that Bengaluru’s championship run often hinged on the matches where she took charge.
“The league surprised me in the best way. The intensity, the crowd’s energy, and the pride teams displayed felt extraordinary from day one. Winning the title was special, but building a formidable force with Bengaluru feels even more significant,” she expressed.
As Season 2 nears, Stewart has set an ambitious goal: breaking into the Top 10 across all professional divisions by the end of 2025. Her presence not only provides continuity but also brings an essence of championship pedigree to the Bengaluru Jawans.
“We aim beyond simply defending the crown. The Bengaluru Jawans share the same drive we had last season, and that joyful pursuit remains unchanged, no matter the rivals or results we face,” she stated.
While Season 1 marked the arrival of the WPBL, Season 2 promises to solidify its foundation, and with Katerina Stewart back in Bengaluru colors, the next chapter of the league and her team is in capable hands.
