Rising Stars Shine at Gatorade Malaysia Closed 2025
The inaugural Gatorade Malaysia Closed 2025, the nation’s first-ever official pickleball championship, concluded this past weekend with thrilling matches, fierce competition, and memorable highlights that brought Malaysia’s best players together on one court.
Left to right: Foo Bee Fon (1st Runner Up), Ms. Delima Ibrahim, President of Malaysia Pickleball Association, Laurel Yong Loong Er (Champion), Shahmeez Reza, Senior Manager, Trade Marketing & Marketing Services, Etika Sdn Bhd, and Lim Xin Yu (2nd Runner-Up)
Competitors battled not just for medals, but for official national ranking points, marking a major step toward establishing pickleball as a recognised competitive sport in Malaysia. Emerging talents, junior athletes, and seasoned players delivered fast-paced rallies and strategic play that reflected Malaysia’s rapidly growing pickleball community.Gatorade Malaysia Closed 2025, organized by the Malaysia Pickleball Association (MPA) in collaboration with the Kuala Lumpur Pickleball Association (KLPA), all matches were officiated under national standards. Winners earned ranking points to climb Malaysia’s official pickleball ladder, on top of championship titles that celebrate their skill, discipline, and sportsmanship.
Left to right: Ritchie Lee (1st Runner Up), Mohd Faizal Bin Othman (Champion), and Ahmad Hazeeq (2nd Runner-Up) The tournament drew a diverse field, from promising juniors to former national sportsmen—illustrating pickleball’s increasing appeal as both a recreational game and a serious competitive platform. The event showcased a sport beginning to transition into a structured national ecosystem, supported by official rules, coaching pathways, and competitive progression.
“We’re delighted to have Gatorade supporting the inaugural Malaysia Closed 2025,” said Delima Ibrahim, the Competition Chairwoman of the Malaysia Pickleball Association.
“Their involvement helps grow the sport at all levels, especially from the grassroot and junior levels who are discovering pickleball as a hobby, to competitive athletes refining their skills. It’s encouraging to see corporate partners like them who share our vision of building an inclusive and sustainable pickleball community.
"Tournament Highlights The Gatorade Malaysia Closed 2025 featured multiple categories across all age groups, from Under 12 and Under 15 juniors to adult divisions, bringing together Malaysia’s emerging and established pickleball talent. National stars such as Keevan Raj, former national hockey player, and Izran Farroukh, ex-SUKMA tennis player, competed at the highest level, delivering fast-paced, thrilling matches that highlighted the sport’s growing popularity and inclusive appeal. Adult categories produced memorable moments, with Mohd Faizal Bin Othman, Men’s Singles 35+ champion, dedicating his victory to his family: “I’m grateful for Gatorade’s support and the opportunities this tournament provides for athletes and the pickleball community. Events like these inspire younger players to elevate their ” game.
Lim Xin Yu, 2nd Runner-Up in the Women’s Singles Open, added: “I’m thrilled to have secured 3rd place. A big thank you to Gatorade for organizing this tournament-I hope to see more events like this, and I dream of pickleball one day being part of SUKMA, the SEA Games, and even the Olympics.”
As a global brand trusted by elite athletes and the sports drink of choice for players, Gatorade also has a special focus on grassroots development, supporting young talent and helping them discover their potential. The junior players shone throughout the tournament, demonstrating skill, determination, and passion for the sport. Boys Doubles U18 champion Dzarif Dzakwan said, “I feel amazing to be part of this tournament. It motivates me to keep improving both on and off the court.”
Pickleball in Malaysia: A Rapid Rise Once a niche pastime, pickleball has exploded in Malaysia over the past year. The country is now the No.1 pickleball nation in Asia and among the top three fastest-growing nations globally, with over 143,000 active players competing across more than 400 courts nationwide. With new venues, community events, and a strong national tournament schedule, the sport is rapidly gaining popularity across all age groups.Players go head-to-head in a thrilling rally at the Gatorade Malaysia Closed 2025.
Globally, pickleball has been the fastest-growing sport, thanks to its accessibility, fast-paced yet low-impact gameplay, and broad appeal. Malaysia is now beginning to emulate this model, laying the foundations for a sustainable, inclusive, and competitive pickleball ecosystem that nurtures talent and fosters national pride.
Comments