Malaysia Emerges as Asia’s Pickleball Powerhouse: Malaysia is fast becoming a major player in global pickleball. Recent data from DUPR, a popular skill rating app, shows Malaysia ranks third worldwide in users, behind only the United States and Canada. With strong local support and growing tournaments, Malaysia is now Asia’s top pickleball hotspot.
Surging Popularity Across the Country
The growth of pickleball in Malaysia reflects a major shift in the sport’s global reach. Known for its love of badminton, the country now has the highest number of DUPR users outside North America. This signals growing interest and participation across all age groups.
Domestic events like the Panas Cup, Pickleball Grand Slam, and Flying Pickleball Team Championships are helping drive this boom. Government support and corporate sponsorships are also giving the sport a strong boost. The environment for growth is ideal.
Major Cities Lead the Way
Kuala Lumpur is one of the top cities globally for pickleball. It ranks just behind Austin, Texas, in user numbers. The recent opening of the Pickleball Stadium at Kenanga Wholesale City adds to the buzz. School children now receive free training at the venue.
There are over 300 DUPR clubs already operating in Malaysia. The infrastructure is expanding quickly, with many players getting official ratings. DUPR’s presence in Malaysia shows that the sport is no longer on the fringe.
Regional Growth and Youth Focus
In Sarawak, the Sarawak Pickleball Association is leading the charge. The state has hosted the Grand Slam tournament and is offering free coaching for young players. Efforts are underway to make Sarawak the country’s pickleball capital.
Other Asian nations like Vietnam, India, China, and South Korea are also seeing a rise in pickleball. But Malaysia’s steady and quiet rise stands out. The focus on tournaments, training, and youth outreach sets it apart.
Easy Access Attracts New Players
Badminton is still the dominant sport in Malaysia. But pickleball’s ease of learning makes it appealing. Unlike badminton or table tennis, it does not require advanced training. This makes it ideal for families and casual players looking for fun and exercise.
A Growing Sport with Big Potential
Malaysia’s rise in the pickleball sport is no accident. With strong infrastructure, active clubs, and government support, the country is building a solid foundation. The younger player base signals a bright future.
With three of the five fastest-growing pickleball countries in Asia, the sport’s global future clearly includes this continent and Malaysia is leading the way.
News in Brief: Malaysia Emerges as Asia’s Pickleball Powerhouse
Malaysia is now the third-largest country for DUPR pickleball users. With strong support, local tournaments, and new facilities, it has become Asia’s top pickleball hotspot. Kuala Lumpur ranks high globally in city-based growth, and Sarawak is emerging as a key region for the sport’s continued rise in Southeast Asia.
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