Pickleball, one of the fastest-growing sports in the world, has officially made an appearance in Oman

Come slice, chop, drive or drop…or simply send a ‘falafel’ into the ‘kitchen’!

No, we’re not talking about cuisine, though the name does suggest some spice. Pickleball! That’s the new sport, already a rage around the world, and now taking a peek into Oman’s social circuit among white (and not-so-white) collars who want to unwind and let off some tension after a busy week at the daily grind.

With its induction into the Global Pickleball Federation on January 12, Oman has joined the global wave of this dynamic sport. The inaugural Oman Open 2025, held last weekend at The American International School of Muscat (TAISM), heralded this new initiative.

The unique mixed doubles tournament offered an evening of fun, competition, and camaraderie as pickleball enthusiasts from across the region gathered to mark a new chapter in Oman’s sports landscape.

Pickleball is an exciting blend of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong, played on a smaller court with paddles and a lightweight plastic ball. Known for its accessibility and social nature, the sport has captured the hearts of millions worldwide. From its humble beginnings as a backyard game in the United States, pickleball has grown into a global phenomenon, attracting players of all ages and skill levels.

Global growth of Pickleball

Over the last decade, pickleball has witnessed explosive growth, fueled by its versatility and sense of community. With the establishment of the Global Pickleball Federation, the sport has gained a stronger international presence, connecting players and nations through tournaments and events.

Oman’s recent induction into the federation now highlights the country’s commitment to embracing emerging sports and fostering cultural exchange through play, albeit through baby steps.

Oman Open 2025

The inaugural Oman Open 2025 was a landmark event, featuring a mixed doubles tournament catering to players of varying skill levels –    Intermediate Pool (12 competitive teams showcased their skill and strategy) and Beginner Pool (7 enthusiastic teams dove into the action for the love of the game).

Set against the backdrop of the American International School of Muscat, the tournament reflected Oman’s growing pickleball community and its emerging place on the global stage.

The tournament ably supported by local and international sponsors, including Hassan Shaban (Empower Dataworks & Wenatchee Valley Pickleball Club), Ali Daud (McDonald’s), Samir Messaoudi (Sheraton Oman) and Drew Geoghagan (Global Sports Partners) who shared the enthusiasm for pickleball and its ability to unite people from all walks of life.

“Getting Oman inducted into the Global Pickleball Federation was a major milestone and a testament to the dedication of our entire team,” said Jeff Nelson, Chairman of Oman Pickleball. “We had to build a board, lay the groundwork, and show the Federation that Oman is ready to embrace this incredible sport. To see the inaugural Oman Open happen was beyond exciting – it’s the beginning of something truly special for the sultanate and the region.

‘Fall in love with Pickleball’

In a chat with Muscat Daily, Jeff provides insights into the prospects of Pickleball in Oman:

Who took the initiative to introduce Pickleball in Oman?

I fell in love with the sport when I started playing in the USA and wanted to continue playing here in Oman. When I learned that there was little to no pickleball here, I decided to start my own group. It began with a small group and has grown to well over 100 people.  Everyone that has played the sport just once seems to fall in love with it quickly – just look at Andre Agassi.  The game is easy to learn and fun to play.

What type of court is needed to play this game?

The playing surface needs to be hard enough to allow the ball to bounce. 

Is the Oman outfit a registered sporting body?

Oman Pickleball is not yet registered with the Ministry of Sport. I would love to get it registered. I spent a great deal of time this summer getting Oman Pickleball registered with the Global Pickleball Federation. They recently approved Oman Pickleball and we are excited to expand the sport to anyone interested in learning more.

What were the pre-requisites to attest the Oman outfit with the international organisation?

The prerequisites were to develop a board, which currently consists of three members – president: Jeff Nelson, secretary: Drew Geoghagan and treasurer: Kelly Rauk. We have our logo, bylaws and our own Instagram account @omanpickleball.

Was last week’s event just a demonstration or a proper tournament?

⁠Last week’s event was a proper tournament with players that were new (less than 6 months experience) and intermediate players (more than 6 months experience) to the sport.

What is the initial plan to grow the sport and facilitate it in Oman?

The initial plan to grow the sport was me literally knocking on doors at a few indoor sport locations to set up courts to teach and to play. I offered to introduce the sport to a couple of local schools but they were tied up with other after-school activities. The only indoor location available was ACE PADEL where I have enjoyed playing quite often.

We really need a larger indoor location with about 8 to 10 courts to offer coaching and instruction. We meet regularly at TAISM for open play and coaching for anyone new to the sport. We’d love for more people to join our Instagram page and can also host a clinic for anyone looking to learn more. Going forward, there will be additional tournaments and spectators are welcome to come watch for free.

Is this sport open to all age groups, ethnicities – what should interested persons do to join?

⁠Pickleball is open to all people, ethnicities and ages. We have many local individuals in the pickleball community already and more are welcome.

(Those interested, can join the Instagram group or contact Jeff Nelson on 9759 0215.)