‘Pickleball’s popularity a boon for other sports’

PICKLEBALL can grow without threatening other racquet sports, says world No.4 Christian Alshon.

The American, a former tennis singles champion who switched to pickleball in 2021, said “sports should co-exist”.

He was speaking at a press conference for the inaugural Professional Pickleball Association (PPA) Tour Asia: Panas Malaysia Cup 2025.

It was held at 9Pickle Setia Alam Championship Court in Shah Alam, Selangor, from Sept 24 to 28 and featured a record prize pool of more than US$150,000 (RM633,000) – the largest in Asia.

Pickleball’s popularity has surged in Malaysia, with the Malaysian Pickleball Association estimating about 10,000 active players nationwide.

“I think tennis can really help pickleball grow. It does not have to be one against the other.

“I think racquet sports need to unite – tennis, padel, pickleball, badminton and ping pong. I love them all,” added Alshon.

American-Vietnamese player Alix Truong, ranked No.17 in mixed doubles, said the sport’s popularity in Asia has been remarkable.

She expressed hope that pickleball would one day be included in the Olympics.

“To see pickleball grow not just in Vietnam but also Malaysia and across Asia has been amazing, with the help of the Professional Pickleball Association,” she said.

Truong said Asians also enjoyed team sports, and pickleball allowed four players on court instead of two.

“That inclusiveness is a big draw,” she added.

United Pickleball Association (UPA) Asia managing director Kimberly Koh said UPA has taken steps to elevate local talent and grow the sport at the regional level through PPA tour stops, support initiatives aimed at getting younger athletes into pickleball, and encouraging community-based talent development.

Also present was Panas Express founder Vincent Siow.

The company is the title sponsor for the PPA Tour Asia. — By EDWARD RAJENDRA

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