Malaysia’s Pickleball Scene Heats Up in 2025
Pickleball is no longer just a niche sport in Malaysia — it’s rapidly gaining popularity, with international tournaments, star players, and growing excitement among fans. This year has been especially significant, marking a turning point for the sport in the country.
Big Events on the Calendar
World Pickleball Championship Asian Grand Slam
Malaysia made history this year by hosting the World Pickleball Championship Asian Grand Slam for the very first time. Over a thousand athletes from around the world gathered in Kuala Lumpur, bringing global attention to the Malaysian pickleball scene. The event also provided a major boost to the local economy, filling hotels, restaurants, and shops with players and fans.
The Malaysia Cup
Another highlight is the Malaysia Cup, part of the PPA Tour Asia. This tournament is drawing both professional and amateur players, with impressive prize money and ranking points up for grabs. Excitement has been building even further with the announcement that one of the world’s top pickleball stars will compete, making this one of the most anticipated events of the year.
Asia Pickleball Summit
Adding to the momentum, Malaysia is also hosting the Asia Pickleball Summit — a gathering of players, clubs, industry leaders, and enthusiasts. It’s more than just a sports event; it’s a platform for networking, innovation, and collaboration, showing how pickleball is developing into a full-fledged industry across the region.
Why Pickleball is Growing
Pickleball’s popularity lies in its accessibility. It’s easy to learn, doesn’t require as much equipment as some other racquet sports, and appeals to a wide range of ages. Families, schools, and community clubs are picking it up, making it more than just a competitive sport — it’s also a lifestyle and social activity.
Beyond participation, the sport brings economic opportunities. Hosting international events means more tourism and spending, benefiting local businesses. It also opens doors for Malaysian players to compete at higher levels without needing to travel abroad, accelerating the development of local talent.
Comments