Ahmedabad: The city witnessed an energetic celebration of sportsmanship and team spirit as the Blackk & One Cup 2025, a premier open team badminton tournament, concluded successfully on 17th and 18th May at the Blackk & One Badminton Academy, Thaltej. Organized by Blackk & One Sports Foundation in collaboration with the Gujarat Badminton Association, the tournament brought together passionate players from across the state in the 75+, 85+, and 95+ combined age categories. Around 16 teams participated in this highly competitive tournament. The final match was held on Sunday between Ahmedabad Rockstars and Mumbai Risers, with Mumbai Risers emerging as the champions.
Dr. K. L. N. Rao (IPS), Director General of Prisons, Gujarat, graced the final match as the Chief Guest. The event was hosted by Mr. Jitendra Yadav, Managing Director of Blackk & One Badminton Academy.
As for the final match scoreboard —Ahmedabad Rockstars won the first game with a narrow margin of 30-29, Mumbai Risers bounced back with a dominant 30-16 win in the second game, Ahmedabad Rockstars claimed the third game 30-19. With a total score of 76 for Ahmedabad Rockstars and 78 for Mumbai Risers, the latter clinched the title.
With matches played under the AS30 shuttlecock standard—typically reserved for international tournaments—the event ensured top-tier gameplay quality. Each team included one player aged 30+ (born on or before 1994) and five players aged 35+ (born on or before 1989), reinforcing the message that competitive spirit knows no age. The tournament format added to the excitement, with tie-breakers decided at 29-all by the next winning rally, and group qualifications based on points and matches won.
This edition of the tournament made history in Gujarat by offering record-breaking cash prizes: Rs. 1,11,000 to the winner, Rs. 51,000 to the first runner-up, and Rs. 25,000 to the second runner-up. Teams showcased not just skill but also remarkable discipline, strategy, and coordination throughout the two-day event, making it a memorable occasion for players and spectators alike.
Speaking on the occasion, Jitendra Yadav, Managing Director of Blackk & One Badminton Academy, shared, “The tournament’s goal was to inspire people to believe that age should never limit performance or ambition. From young trainees to seasoned senior players aged 50 and above, the event highlighted the true essence of fitness, determination, and lifelong passion for the game.” With its overwhelming response and professional execution, the Blackk & One Cup 2025 marked a significant milestone in Gujarat’s badminton calendar.
