Nottingham Forest
Nottingham’s Adam Middleton and Sibi Raja clinched the top spot in a recent pickleball tournament held at Bolton Arena, showcasing remarkable skill and teamwork. The duo defeated James George and Harry Payne with scores of 11-2 and 11-8 in the final match, securing their place on the podium.
Adam Middleton said: “It hasn’t sunk in. Sibi has just got electrically fast hands, it is ridiculous. It is absolutely ridiculous how good he is up at that kitchen line.”
Sibi Raja said: “I have a tennis background. That’s how I started, we had our sessions together and they went really well. This is a bonus to be honest, we had fun that was the whole point, especially having a wonderful partner like Adam.”
The tournament, which took place from October 30 to November 2, featured intense competition, with players demonstrating diverse playing styles borrowed from other racket sports. Pickleball, played on a badminton doubles-sized court, combines elements of tennis and table tennis, using a solid paddle and a perforated plastic ball. Players can only score points on their serve, adding a strategic layer to the game.
Middleton, an electrical engineer, has been involved in pickleball for over a year, while Raja, who has a background in tennis, only took up the sport four months ago. Despite his short tenure in pickleball, Raja has already medalled at the English Nationals, highlighting his rapid adaptation and skill development.
Their victory at Bolton Arena not only underscores their individual talents but also their effective partnership on the court. The duo’s success is a testament to their dedication and the growing popularity of pickleball as a competitive sport.
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