Mumbai: The World Pickleball League (WPBL) is set to return for a blockbuster second season on January 27 in Mumbai, with an expanded league and fresher rivalries adding renewed intrigue to India’s premier franchise-based pickleball competition. Defending champions Bengaluru Jawans will open their campaign against Pune United FC, carrying forward the momentum of a title-winning debut season.
At the heart of Bengaluru’s championship story last year was Katerina Stewart, the Player of the Tournament in WPBL Season 1, whose consistency and match awareness proved decisive as the Jawans lifted the inaugural trophy. The side will be coached by the seasoned Oliver Strecker. As the league grows in scale and competitiveness, Stewart is back in Bengaluru colours, eyeing a repeat title, but a stronger and more importantly, a more sustainable team identity too.
Stewart’s sporting journey has always been about progression. A former professional tennis player with a career-high WTA singles ranking of 158, she transitioned to pickleball for a fresh competitive challenge. That mindset has paid dividends and today, she competes full-time on the PPA and APP tours and has established herself as one of the most consistent singles players in the circuit, winning multiple APP Tour gold medals, including at the Great Lakes Michigan Open and registering victories over top professionals such as 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 said.
Her impact on WPBL last season went beyond results, as Stewart’s ability to read matches and elevate partners under pressure made her a natural anchor for the Jawans. It is no coincidence that Bengaluru’s title run often swung on matches where she steadied the ship.
“The league surprised me in the best way. The intensity, crowds and the pride teams played with felt like something special from day one. Winning the title was special, but with Bengaluru, building a force to reckon feels more meaningful,” she added.
As Season 2 approaches, Stewart has set herself a clear benchmark, i.e. of breaking into the Top 10 across all professional divisions by the end of 2025. Her presence offers continuity and credibility, but for Bengaluru Jawans, it also brings in championship DNA into the fold.
“We aim beyond defending the crown. Bengaluru Jawans chase the same hunger we had last season and the joyous quest for that does not change irrespective of the opponents or the results that we encounter,” she mentioned.
If Season 1 announced the arrival of WPBL, Season 2 is promising consolidation and with Katerina Stewart back in Bengaluru colours, the league’s and their team’s next chapter already has a steady hand guiding it.
