Chan Peng Soon Pioneers Pickleball in Southeast Asia: Pickleball is rapidly gaining popularity in Southeast Asia, drawing players away from both tennis and badminton. The sport’s growth has sparked discussions about its potential to rival badminton, a long-standing favorite in the region. Some experts believe its rise could significantly impact the future of racket sports in the area.
Pickleball’s Expansion in the Region
Former Malaysian badminton player Chan Peng Soon, who won silver at the 2016 Rio Olympics, has embraced pickleball. He recently opened a sports complex near Kuala Lumpur, featuring 16 badminton courts and 18 pickleball courts, signaling the sport’s growing appeal.
Pickleball’s surge comes as Southeast Asian shuttlers face setbacks in international competitions. While badminton remains deeply rooted in the region’s culture, some athletes are reconsidering their careers as pickleball offers new opportunities.
Experts Weigh In on the Trend
Chan Peng Soon acknowledged the sport’s impact, stating,
“We cannot expect to see results now without focusing on the foundation of developing this sport. It will somehow affect badminton where there will be more people opting to play pickleball. However, fans will continue to follow badminton.”(Chan Peng Soon)
Malaysia has historically dominated badminton, with the sport accounting for 11 of the country’s 15 Olympic medals. However, in recent years, pickleball has started to attract younger players, especially as social media platforms like YouTube and TikTok introduce the game to a broader audience.
How Pickleball Took Root
Farrell Choo, president of the Malaysia Pickleball Association, helped introduce the sport when he was managing a nursing college in Miri. He recalled,
“My wife Sally and I started experimenting with a basic pickleball starter kit. We quickly fell in love with the game and its simplicity. I brought pickleball to my college students at the Miri Indoor Stadium, and they were instantly hooked.”(Farrell Choo)
Since then, the sport has expanded, drawing both casual and professional players. With new facilities and increasing enthusiasm, pickleball’s influence in Southeast Asia is expected to grow in the coming years.
News in Brief: Chan Peng Soon Pioneers Pickleball in Southeast Asia
Pickleball is rising in Southeast Asia, attracting players from badminton and tennis. Former Malaysian shuttler Chan Peng Soon has embraced the trend, opening a facility with more pickleball courts than badminton courts. Experts predict continued growth, with younger players showing increasing interest in the sport.
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