Nzamo–Imsuren, Manaswinee–Vilasier & Kenei–Kikrusetuo Crowned Champions at Niathu Open 2025

The 1st Niathu Open Pickleball Tournament 2025 at The Fitness House, Dimapur marked a defining chapter in Nagaland’s sporting journey — a weekend where passion met purpose and local heroes rose to the occasion. Organised by the Nagaland Pickleball Association in collaboration with the Niathu Group, the two-day event on October 10 and 11 witnessed thrilling rallies, packed stands, and the unmistakable pulse of a sport that’s rapidly capturing India’s imagination.With 66 players across three marquee categories — Men’s Doubles Open, Mixed Doubles Open, and Men’s Doubles 40+ — the tournament drew the state’s finest athletes into battle. In the Men’s Doubles Open, Nzamo Kikon and Imsuren Longchar emerged as the new champions after a fierce three-set classic, defeating defending champions Tonoto Ayemi and David Murry 11-3, 10-12, 11-5. Their victory not only ended Tonoto-David’s title run but also signaled a generational shift in Nagaland’s pickleball hierarchy.The Mixed Doubles final showcased pure dominance as Manaswinee Hazarika and Vilasier Khate swept past Jubal Pienyu and Anangsha Alomyan 11-2, 11-4, completing a flawless campaign without dropping a set. Their chemistry and strategic play throughout the tournament made them the standout duo of the weekend.In the Men’s 40+ Doubles category, veterans Kenei Miachieo and Kikrusetuo Sekhose displayed nerves of steel to overcome Kuchi R. Zeliang and Dilip Mohanty 6-11, 11-5, 11-8 in one of the most enthralling finals of the event. Their triumph was a reminder that experience still holds its own in a sport that demands precision, patience, and partnership.The event’s grand opening was graced by the Advisor to the Chief Minister of Nagaland, Mr. Abu Metha, who also serves as the Vice President of the Athletics Federation of India, Secretary General of the Nagaland Olympic Association, and Advisor to the Nagaland Pickleball Association — underscoring institutional backing for pickleball’s growth in the state.As the floodlights dimmed over Dimapur, the Niathu Open stood tall — not merely as a tournament, but as a symbol of Nagaland’s emergence on India’s pickleball map. From young aspirants to seasoned athletes, every serve and rally echoed a single sentiment — the future of pickleball in Nagaland has arrived.About Indian Pickleball Association:The Indian Pickleball Association is the official governing body for pickleball in India and is dedicated to promoting, developing, and organising the sport across the country. The association continues to inspire players of all ages and skill levels to embrace the game through events like the IPA Nationals. IPA is affiliated with the Asian Pickleball Association (APA) and the Global Pickleball Federation (GPF).About Pickleball World Ranking:PWR is a national ranking system that spans all age groups, skill divisions, and formats -including singles, doubles, and mixed categories. It serves as the official National Sports Federation Ranking for India. With multiple sanctioned events taking place every week across the country, PWR defines the top Indian players at every level and forms the foundation for team selection at the school, district, state, and national stages.Stay connected with all the latest news on Pickleball, exclusive behind-the-scenes content, tips, and inspiration you won’t find anywhere else. Your ultimate destination for all things pickleball – where the community comes together for news, views, and the sport that’s sweeping the globe. Follow us at @pickleballnow on Instagram and be part of the community!