Charlotte Whitby-Coles Elevated as COO of the World Pickleball League

Mumbai, March 24, 2025 (Yes Punjab News)

In a move that reinforces WPBL’s structured and strategic approach, the league has announced the elevation of Charlotte Whitby-Coles as its Chief Operating Officer (COO).

Having played a pivotal role in player scouting, management, and relations during WPBL’s inaugural season—along with her on-ground expertise—Charlotte was instrumental in ensuring a seamless, world-class sportainment experience in the recently culminated inaugural season.

In her new role as COO, she will drive strategy along with overseeing operations, production, and execution, rewarding her contribution.

Gaurav Natekar, Co-Founder and CEO of WPBL, said, “Charlotte has brought tremendous value to WPBL, ensuring our first season delivered on its promise of top-tier pickleball action on the court and unmatched entertainment off it.

Her career spans multiple fields, including sports and entertainment, with extensive experience in tennis, pickleball, film production, and academia. This unique, holistic perspective makes her the ideal choice to lead WPBL to even greater heights.

Women make up 40% of the pickleball community of India and throughout the world and are an integral part of the sport. We are committed to integrating more women into every aspect of pickleball, and having Charlotte taking on leadership role in the WPBL is reflective of how we can achieve this goal and promote the inclusion of women in the sport.”

As a former tennis player, Charlotte has spent over 17 years running a tennis and pickleball academy in Panchgani, introducing the sport to schools and expanding grassroots participation.

She grew up playing tennis in the UK, playing at an U18 national level and college tennis, which has provided her with a strong foundation in competitive sport and athlete management. Her understanding of player management and engagement has been integral in curating a diverse and competitive talent pool for WPBL.

Reflecting on her new role, Charlotte Whitby-Coles said, “I have known Gaurav and Arati for a long time now and we share a great respect for each other as friends and professionals. I have witnessed at close quarters their impressive ability to execute their vision and ideas successfully, and the grand scale of season 1 was testament to that.

The journey so far has been amazing, so the decision to accept this new role was an easy one. I am truly grateful and honoured for the opportunity and trust bestowed upon me and I look forward to working with Gaurav and Arati and the whole team at WPBL to make Season 2 even bigger and better.”

WPBL’s first season, held in Mumbai from January 24 to February 2, showcased top international talent with Bengaluru Jawans being crowned champions.

About the World Pickleball League (WPBL)

The World Pickleball League (WPBL), promoted by Natekar Sports and Gaming, a brainchild of former Indian No. 1 tennis players Gaurav Natekar and Arati Ponnappa Natekar, is at the forefront of transforming pickleball in India.

WPBL is dedicated to elevating the sport through world-class events, immersive fan experiences, and a thriving community, setting new benchmarks for the game’s growth. Debuting in January 2025 with six teams, WPBL is dedicated to promote the growth of the pickleball ecosystem in India through valuable partnerships with organizations and brands to offer unique and innovative experience.

The league’s inaugural season attracted a strong lineup of international and Indian brands, with Sony Corporation as an investor and partner, Barclays Private as a sponsor, Sony Sports and FanCode as broadcasters, Radio City as the radio partner, Khelo More as the community partner, Swiggy Scenes as the ticketing partner, Volvo as the official mobility partner, and Dove Men+Care as the hair care partner.

WPBL plays a pivotal role in shaping India’s pickleball landscape and works closely with the All-India Pickleball Association (AIPA), which is affiliated with the International Pickleball Federation (IPF) in the USA.