6 Lessons from Two Weeks of Pro Pickleball in Kuala Lumpur and Da Nang

Objects in the Rearview Mirror Are Closer Than They Appear

To the surprise of many, there were numerous upsets and near upsets during the PPA Asia Tour stops. Ben Johns and Christian Alshon faced unexpected challenges right from the start in Malaysia. Despite initial obstacles, we saw many international players proving their mettle. Although they sometimes fell short against American professionals, they showcased skill and competitiveness, especially with impressive drives and quick offenses. While international players have room to grow in areas such as successfully reaching the kitchen, their potential is evident. American players seemed to hold an advantage with strategic shot selection and maintaining control at crucial moments.

Asia: A Melting Pot of Racquet Sports

Pickleball is constantly evolving, and the racquet sport diversity seen in Asia is transforming the game. In the U.S., a dominant tennis background shapes most players, but this isn't the sole path to success. With influences from tennis, table tennis, badminton, and squash, Asian players bring a variety of styles and techniques. Each sport offers unique strengths: tennis for serves and returns, table tennis for quick reactions, badminton for overheads, and squash for power. Future pickleball champions will blend these diverse elements, moving beyond the traditional tennis influence.

Slow Conditions Are a Great Equalizer

Playing with a Joola ball on pickleroll courts in hot, humid conditions created a slower-paced game, serving as an equalizer. The conditions allowed players more time to position themselves, masking mishits and pop-ups. While international players might face challenges in faster conditions, the slower pace proved advantageous in leveling the playing field during these matches.

Pickleball Is Actually Cool

In Southeast Asia, pickleball is celebrated by younger generations and has become a part of pop culture. Unlike its origins as a sport for older adults in the U.S., pickleball in Malaysia and Vietnam is met with enthusiasm from influencers and young talents. With increasing popularity, pro matches have seen record attendance, surpassing even 7906 in Da Nang. Notably, there's less rivalry between tennis and pickleball overseas, with former tennis players embracing the sport passionately.

Asian Dominance Is Inevitable

Asia’s deep-rooted passion for racquet sports, affordability, and urban-friendly nature make pickleball's growth inevitable. As young athletes in Asia gravitate toward pickleball, aided by governmental support, the focus on fewer sports could mean attracting top talent. In contrast, the U.S. spreads its athletic pool across diverse sports. The current dominant American presence is akin to the 1992 Dream Team era, but change is on the horizon.

Pickleball Is Here to Stay

The trip solidified the belief that pickleball isn't just a trend; it's the future. With new courts popping up globally and strong participation, the sport's potential as a professional sport is becoming clear. Setting the Guinness World Record for attendance in Da Nang and encouraging domestic ticket sales in the U.S. highlight this shift. It’s only a matter of time before pickleball becomes a high school, collegiate, and even Olympic sport. The momentum is unstoppable, and pickleball is here to stay.