Franklin Malaysia Signs Pickleball Star Jimmy Liong

Franklin Malaysia has officially added Malaysian pickleball standout Jimmy Liong to its growing roster of professional athletes. 

The signing was unveiled during Franklin Malaysia’s Christmas party and product launch event held on Monday. With the move, Liong becomes the brand’s first professional athlete signing in Asia. 

Widely regarded as one of Malaysia’s leading pickleball players, Liong was part of the inaugural UPA Asia Trailblazers Programme Class of 2025. The group also featured fellow Malaysian Mia Athilla, Vietnam’s Ken Tam, Japan’s Mayu Ito, China’s Yufei Long, and Macau’s Marco Leung. 

Liong has enjoyed a steady rise within Malaysia’s pickleball scene and was a key member of the title-winning team at the recent Cakenis Cup Pickleball Malaysia 2025. Known for his athleticism, consistency, and relentless work ethic, he has established himself as one of the sport’s most dependable performers in the country. 

Beyond his on-court achievements, Liong has earned a reputation for remaining humble and grounded despite his growing profile, qualities that align closely with Franklin Malaysia’s brand values and vision for the sport’s development. 

The Malaysian star was previously affiliated with international pickleball brand Facolos, but the partnership ended in November, making Liong a sought-after free agent. His signing by Franklin Malaysia was widely anticipated given his stature and appeal within the regional pickleball community. 

While the partnership is new, Liong’s objectives remain unchanged, which is to help grow pickleball in Malaysia and to inspire the next generation of players. Those shared ambitions make the collaboration between Franklin Malaysia and Jimmy Liong a natural fit as both look to elevate the sport locally and across the region.