Top Indian golfers Vani Kapoor and Ridhima Dilawari rally behind IGPL’s inclusive future

The Indian Golf Premier League (IGPL) announced a landmark collaboration with the Women’s Golf Association of India (WGAI), aiming to revolutionise the sport with a mixed-format league that puts men and women on the same platform for the first time in India. Speaking at an exclusive media roundtable, WGAI Secretary General Champika Sayal underlined how the initiative aligns with global trends in golf. “Golf has always been seen as an individual sport, but the future is about inclusion and creativity. With the Olympics introducing a mixed doubles format in 2028, IGPL’s integrated structure could not be more timely,” she said.

Sayal emphasised the value of team competition, equal opportunities, and fan engagement. “Golf is becoming expensive, and we need to create a team spirit to bring more fans into the game. IGPL’s franchise-style events will provide our players with more exposure, financial backing, and the chance to share the field with international stars. This is the right time for such an evolution.”

The WGAI chief also confirmed that the partnership will see a seamless sharing of schedules. “IGPL has planned 8–10 events in its first season, and we’ve created a timeshare so players can balance international commitments with the domestic calendar. Our top six from the Hero Women’s Professional Golf Tour Order of Merit will automatically qualify, with six more invited from around the world.”

Among India’s leading players, there is clear excitement. Current Order of Merit leader Vani Kapoor called it a bold step forward. “I think IGPL marks the start of a new era for Indian golf. It’s giving us a platform where the sport is visible, fun, and aspirational. For women golfers especially, equal prize money and equal opportunities are game-changing,” she said.

Kapoor, who has enjoyed a strong domestic season before returning to the Ladies European Tour, also highlighted the importance of inclusivity. “What excites me is not just the prize money, but the chance to share experiences with men, seniors, and amateurs on the same platform. That will help us all grow together as a golfing community.”

Her compatriot Ridhima Dilawari, currently No. 2 on the Order of Merit, echoed that sentiment. “For me, what stands out is visibility. Indian women golfers are performing internationally, but often without the recognition they deserve. IGPL’s focus on media and storytelling can finally help fans know who we are and where we come from. That’s how you build real connections between athletes and supporters,” she said.

Trending Stories20 years, 38 stars: VDHM celebrates its most loyal runners with ‘Stars Club’Next time in Moscow? Putin offers to host Zelensky in Russian capital for talks to end war: Here’s what Ukrainian president saidWhy Donald Trump used B-2 Bomber as a display of strength during Putin’s visit?Scientist claims mystery interstellar object is here to test human intelligence, and we have already failed. Here’s whyRussia pushes back against US ‘sanctions’ against India, says our market open for Indian goods, calls BRICS a stabilising forceDelhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta attacked at her residence during ‘jan sunvai’, attacker nabbed‘Biggest threat is that if India launches a missile strike’: Pakistan PM’s aide questions Islamabad’s defence capabilties‘We are all bisexuals’ – BOLD claims by Swara Bhaskar, reveals her crush on Dimple YadavWhat happened when a Soviet scientist tried to create human-ape super soldiers?Why Gen Z are finding it harder than ever to land first job? Graduate unemployment hits 37-year high in USChina lifts export ban on fertilisers, rare earths, tunnel machines as Wang Yi visits India: Report‘You mean Sudarshan Chakra?’ Russian diplomat responds on being asked about India’s Iron DomeWhy Trump imposed tariffs on India citing Russian oil purchase? Press Secretary Leavitt reveals REAL reason‘It’s not a suggestion, it’s an order’: Obama, Biden pressured banks to deny services to Trump?SC vs strays: Delhi CM Rekha Gupta caves to animal lovers’ pressure, stops ‘harsh action’ on street dogs27-year-old guy claims used AI to publish 1500 books and earn $3million, gets bashed onlineWhy no other country operates a B-2 Bomber?Alien attack in November? Harvard scientists warn mysterious object hurtling towards EarthEnd of B-2 Bomber era is near! Here’s how B-21 Raider will take over in futureWatch: ‘Ghost’ Ukrainian sniper takes out two Russian soldiers with record-breaking kill shot from 4km away‘I sent goodbye messages’: Plane from Greece spits out fire as scared passengers send ‘final’ messagesScientist finds earliest evidence that Rig Veda verses influenced civilisations outside IndiaRekha Gupta’s attacker a dog lover? Rajesh Khimji’s mother says he was ‘angry at Supreme Court’s street dog order’

Dilawari also noted the potential to bring in new audiences. “In India, we’ve seen how cricket grew by changing formats. Golf needs to experiment too. If IGPL can capture even a fraction of that viewership with its mixed teams and fresh formats, it could change the landscape for the sport.”

With six teams set to feature in the inaugural season, equal representation for women, and strong support from both the WGAI and professional players, IGPL is positioning itself as a disruptive force in Indian sport. As Sayal summed it up: “The sky is the limit. This is the first time such an opportunity has come to Indian golf, and we are proud to be part of it.”