Quang Duong’s Pickleball Journey: Quang Duong and his younger brother, Bao Duong, made headlines at the 2025 PANAS Cup in Setia Alam, Malaysia. Quang Duong, 19, is Asia’s top-ranked pickleball player and ranked No. 6 worldwide. He is known for his discipline and calmness.
Fourteen-year-old Bao Duong, in contrast, plays with natural skill and excitement. The brothers are coached by their father, Duc Duong, a former tech worker turned full-time coach. The family’s journey from backyard practice in Los Angeles to center court victories in Asia is built on hard work and strong values.
A Family Focused on Growth and Grit
Duc Duong has trained Quang Duong since he was a baby. Even though Quang Duong showed little natural talent, Duc Duong pushed him to work harder than anyone else.
“QD had no talent,” Duc Duong once admitted. But hard work and discipline became Quang Duong’s strengths. After switching from tennis to pickleball due to injuries, Quang Duong climbed the ranks with determination. Duc Duong’s method included keeping the boys grounded, flying in economy class, and focusing on effort instead of comfort.
“My kids, they may have fame — but they don’t have money,” said Duc Duong. “I invest all of QD’s prize money. Every penny. If he wants to eat, he comes to me and asks.”
The Duong Brothers: Different Paths, One Goal
Though they train together, Quang Duong and Bao Duong are very different on the court. Quang Duong is focused and serious. Bao Duong is playful and unpredictable.
“QD plays to survive. Bao plays to enjoy,” said Duc Duong, explaining his different approaches to parenting each child. Despite the contrast, the brothers make a powerful team and are gaining fans across Asia and the world.
Big Moment Against a Big Name
One of Quang Duong’s most important wins came at the PPA Hyundai Masters on January 11. At just 17 years old, he beat Ben Johns, one of the best players in the world. It was not just a lucky win.
Months earlier, Ben Johns had beaten Quang Duong in Denver. After that loss, Quang Duong and Duc Duong studied game footage and trained hard.
“We don’t dwell on the ranking. When he was playing tennis, I used to block them out anyway. I just told him to focus on training. That’s his job.” – (Duc Duong)
The victory proved how much preparation and strategy mattered for the young player.
Family Values Over Fame
Even after his win, Quang Duong stayed humble. He enjoys food, dreams of being a chef, and cooks with his family after matches. For the Duong family, life is about more than medals.
“As a human being. I want QD to give back. That’s success to me. Not how much money he makes. Not how many titles.” – (Duc Duong)
“I tell him all the time: you can stop playing pickleball at 25. Do business, invest, go into something else — but make sure you help people.” – (Duc Duong)
“Being a successful player is one thing. But to be a good human being? That’s harder. That’s what I want. That’s what I teach.” – (Duc Duong)
He believes parents must set strict goals and teach discipline.
“Discipline. It’s everything. Train them young. Don’t give them too much freedom. Guide them. Make them strong. Life will test them, so you have to ensure they’re ready.” – (Duc Duong)
A Son’s Strength and a Father’s Pride
When asked if Quang is really the perfect son, Duc Duong didn’t hesitate. “QD is the perfect son,” he said. But then his voice softened. “And yet… I feel for him,” he added. He spoke of the tough training Quang Duong faced from age six.
“Since the age of 6, he’s been training — day and night. I put him through programme after programme, pushing him harder than most could endure. Not many would have made it through. But he did.” – (Duc Duong)
With emotion in his eyes, Duc Duong finished.
“That’s how tough he is. That’s what makes him special. QD is a good son. A really good son.” – (Duc Duong)
News in Brief: Quang Duong’s Pickleball Journey
At the 2025 PANAS Cup, Quang Duong and Bao Duong impressed fans in Setia Alam, Malaysia. Quang Duong, Asia’s top player, is known for his discipline. Bao Duong brings flair. Coached by their father Duc Duong, their success reflects a mix of hard work, family values, and strong training.
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