Sepak Takraw World Cup 2025: A Triumph Rooted in Tradition and Talent

The Sepak Takraw World Cup 2025, held from March 20 to March 25, 2025, at Patliputra Indoor Stadium in Patna, Bihar, India, was a breathtaking fusion of athleticism and heritage. This fifth edition of the International Sepaktakraw Federation (ISTAF) World Cup brought together 21 nations, spotlighting the Southeast Asian sport dubbed “kick volleyball.” For India, it was a historic milestone, with the men’s regu team securing the nation’s first gold among seven medals. From its introduction in India in 1980 to this global stage, Sepak Takraw’s rise reflects dedication and dreams. Let’s explore this unforgettable event.

What is Sepak Takraw? A Traditional Malaysian Sport

Sepak Takraw, a traditional Malaysian game, flourishes across Southeast Asia—Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, Philippines, Brunei, and Indonesia. Played with a rattan or synthetic ball on a badminton-sized court, it involves two teams of three using feet, knees, chest, and head (no hands) to volley over a net. Standardized by the ISTAF in 1960, this acrobatic sport arrived in India in 1980, laying the groundwork for its 2025 triumph.

How Did Sepak Takraw Start in India?

The sport took root in India in 1980 when Nagpur enthusiasts obtained materials from the Sepak Takraw Federation of Malaysia, led by Shri Tajuddin Ahmed. That year, a meeting at Nagpur Sharirik Shikshan Mahavidyalaya birthed the Sepaktakraw Federation of India, with Adv. S.W. Dhabe (MP) as President, Salim Baig as Secretary General, and Joseph Rao as Treasurer. Ahead of the 1982 Asian Games in Delhi (November 19 to December 4), where Sepak Takraw debuted as a demonstration sport, the federation organized a showcase at Karnail Singh Stadium on November 23. A contingent from Malaysia, Philippines, Indonesia, Brunei, and India, invited by the Asian Sepaktakraw Federation (Kuala Lumpur), mesmerized a full house. Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, the guest of honor, lauded the effort and urged its promotion, envisioning a cultural swap with Indian games like Kabaddi.

Sepak Takraw World Cup 2025 Schedule and Highlights

The 2025 tournament spanned six thrilling days, hosting 150 matches across men’s and women’s regu, doubles, quad, and mixed doubles. Launched by Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, it featured powerhouses like Thailand and Malaysia. India’s men’s regu team clinched gold in a 2-1 thriller against Japan (11-15, 15-11, 17-14), while the women’s doubles took silver and the women’s regu earned bronze—part of a seven-medal haul.

Where Was the Sepak Takraw World Cup 2025 Held?

Patna, Bihar, hosted this global spectacle at Patliputra Indoor Stadium, alive with local passion. Bihar’s debut as a World Cup venue echoed the sport’s early demonstrations in Delhi, Bombay, and Nagpur post-1982, marking its journey from Southeast Asia to South Asia’s heart.

Who Won the Sepak Takraw World Cup 2025?

India shone brightly, with the men’s regu team claiming gold—the country’s first—in a dramatic final against Japan. The women’s doubles secured silver against Myanmar, and the women’s regu took bronze. Thailand upheld its legacy, but India’s seven medals stole the spotlight.

Top Teams and Players at Sepak Takraw World Cup 2025

From Thailand’s expertise to Japan’s resilience, talent abounded. India’s men’s regu team and women’s squad, including Nagaland stars, dazzled. Newcomers like Brazil and the USA added global flavor, reflecting Sepak Takraw’s expanding reach from its Malaysian origins.

How Did India Perform in the Sepak Takraw World Cup 2025?

India’s seven-medal haul—gold in men’s regu, silver in women’s doubles, bronze in women’s regu, and more—marked a defining moment. Building on its 1982 debut and medals at the King’s Cup in 1998 and 1999, this performance showcased decades of growth, fueled by a roaring Bihar crowd.

Pradhan Mantri Congratulates India’s Sepak Takraw Team

On March 26, 2025, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi extended heartfelt praise to the Indian contingent via X: “Congratulations to our contingent for displaying phenomenal sporting excellence at the Sepak Takraw World Cup 2025! The contingent brings home 7 medals. The Men’s Regu team created history by bringing home India’s first Gold. This spectacular performance indicates a promising future for India in the global Sepak Takraw arena.” His words, echoing Indira Gandhi’s 1982 encouragement, celebrate a milestone that promises to inspire a new generation.

Sepak Takraw’s Growth in India: From 1982 to 2025

After the 1982 Asian Games, the Federation organized demonstrations in Bombay, Nagpur, and beyond, leveraging the visiting Asian contingent. Twelve national championships followed, with 24 state affiliates now active. India’s international strides included women’s silver and men’s bronze at the 14th King’s Cup (1998, Bangkok) and men’s regu gold at the 15th (1999). Recognized by the Indian Olympic Association in 1998, Sepak Takraw joined the National Games in Imphal and became an Asian Games staple by 1990 in Beijing, setting the stage for 2025.

Why Bihar? The Significance of the Host Location

Bihar’s hosting bridged tradition and ambition. From Nagpur’s 1980 spark to Patna’s 2025 spotlight, the state’s cultural vibrancy and sports infrastructure shone. The event inspired local youth, echoing the 1982 nationwide push, and elevated Bihar globally.

What’s Next for Sepak Takraw After 2025?

The ISTAF, based in Bangkok, targets Olympic inclusion by 2026 and growth to 75 nations. The 2025 success in Bihar, backed by India’s rise since 1982, fuels this vision. With 24 state associations and growing talent, India could soon challenge Southeast Asian giants.

Conclusion

The Sepak Takraw World Cup 2025 was a triumph of skill, legacy, and national pride. From its 1982 debut under Indira Gandhi’s vision to PM Modi’s 2025 applause, India’s journey in this Malaysian sport has soared. Bihar’s hosting and seven medals—including that historic gold—herald a bright future. As the rattan ball flies, it carries a story of cultural exchange and global promise.