Kohima Open Tournament 2025, powered by Picko Padel, concluded on August 16 and 17 at Akim Arena.
Kohima, August 18 (MExN): Kohima Open Tournament 2025, powered by Picko Padel, concluded on August 16 and 17 at Akim Arena, witnessing participation with 25 teams competing across Men’s Doubles and Mixed Doubles categories.
The two-day event saw 18 Men’s Doubles and 7 Mixed Doubles teams battling it out in a spirited display of skill and sportsmanship.
Day 1 featured the group stages and quarterfinals of the Men’s Doubles, while Day 2 hosted the Mixed Doubles matches, followed by the Men’s Doubles semifinals and finals.
In the Men’s Doubles Grand Final, Vilasier Khate and Vikhozolie Khate faced off against Zhaputso Khate and Kepevilie Khate in a thrilling contest. The match ended with Vilasier and Vikhozolie securing victory by 15-12 and 15-6, making it Vilasier Khate’s second title win in this category. Their performance stood as a testament to consistency, determination, and teamwork.
The Mixed Doubles Grand Final was equally exciting, with Imtinok Pongener and Eyeni Yanthan defeating Jubal Pienyu and Lentina Longkumer by 4-15, 15-2, and 15-7. Notably, Eyeni Yanthan, who had been the first runner-up of the inaugural Nagaland Pickleball Open, made a strong comeback this year to claim the championship title alongside her partner.
The prize money awarded was Rs 25,000 for the Men’s Doubles winners, Rs 10,000 for the runners-up, and Rs 15,000 for the Mixed Doubles winners. In addition, Shri Abu Mehta, who is also the advisor to the Nagaland Pickleball Association, graced the occasion as the special guest, generously announcing an extra Rs 10,000 each for the winners and Rs 5,000 each for the runners-up, further motivating the players. The event was also witnessed by distinguished dignitaries, including Theja Meru, Advisor TafMa; Obed Quinker, Chairman NBHM; Kuputo Shohe, Chairman NSMDA; Prasielie Pienyü, Chairman NHHC; Watizulu Jamir, Chairman DAN; and Neivikuolie Khatsü, Assistant Secretary General NOA, whose presence added immense value to the tournament.
The Nagaland Pickleball Association expressed appreciation to Ujjwal Mukhia, whose company, Picko Padel, was the title sponsor of the tournament, and is also the Vice President of the Karnataka Pickleball Association, for his crucial role in supporting and promoting pickleball in Nagaland.
