Pickleball Takes Global Leap: PPA Tour and MLB Asia Launch Initiatives to Expand the Sport Across Asia

Dallas, TX, USA - November 25, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Professional Pickleball Association (PPA Tour) and Major League Pickleball (MLP) have announce the formation of PPA Asia and MLP Asia, a significant milestone in the history of the sport. These two entities will bring the highest level of professional pickleball to Asian audiences, solidifying the region's position as a major hub for pickleball competitions.

Connor Pardoe, Founder and CEO of the PPA Tour, expressed his excitement about entering the Asian market: "Asia has a rich tradition of racket sports, and we're thrilled to contribute to its sports culture with the arrival of pickleball." The new venture aims to establish pickled basketball as a leading sport in Asia, emphasizing the immense potential for growth and fan engagement across the region.

PPA and MLP Asia will operate in several major Asian markets, including China, Vietnam, Japan, and Singapore. Their premier brands will debut in 2025, featuring iconic venues that will culminate in a marquee October event uniting top pros from Asia, the United States, and other continents. Led by Managing Director Kimberly Koh, PPA Tour Asia will focus on professional competitions, while MLP Asia will introduce franchised team play and establish domestic leagues to drive local enthusiasm.

For the PPA Tour players, including the highest-ranked Asian-born player Quang Duong, this new initiative presents an incredible opportunity: "With passion for racket sports already established in the region, this is a huge moment for pickleball to explode across Asia and globally."

Similar sentiments echoed from Ben Johns, World No.1 (Doubles/Mixed) on the PPA Tour, stating that bringing pro-level pickleball to Asian audiences will have a significant impact: "I look forward to connecting with fans across Asia and spreading the joy of the sport in the region." Anna Bright, MVP of MLP, emphasized her own excitement about introducing pickled basketball to the Asian continent: "We've seen amazing growth in the United States, but now we have a chance to share that enthusiasm and passion with fans here."

To further expand its reach and fan presence, PPA Asia and MLB Asia will rely on engaging content creation and outreach, ensuring high-quality events that deliver unforgettable experiences for players, coaches, teams, owners, sponsors, media representatives, fans, volunteers, staff.