Pickleball's Global Invasion: The MB Hanoi Cup Kicks Off!
The MB Hanoi Cup 2026 is not just another tournament; it's a monumental moment for Asian pickleball, bringing the sport's brightest stars to Hanoi for an unforgettable week of action. Expectations are soaring as top seeds prepare to clash for glory, ranking points, and a significant prize purse.
Key Takeaways from the MB Hanoi Cup Seeds:
- Anna Leigh Waters makes her highly anticipated international debut, targeting her 200th career gold medal.
- Ben Johns aims to secure his first Asian gold, partnering Gabe Tardio in Men's Doubles and Waters in Mixed Doubles.
- The singles draws promise fierce competition, with Federico Staksrud, Kate Fahey, Kaitlyn Christian, and Sahra Dennehy leading formidable fields.
- Players will battle for 1000 crucial PPA ranking points and a share of the US$300,000 prize pool.
From April 1st to 5th, the My Dinh Indoor Athletics Arena in Hanoi will transform into the epicenter of professional pickleball. The MB Hanoi Cup signifies a critical moment for the sport's expansion, drawing elite talent from around the globe.
With 1000 PPA ranking points on the line and a staggering US$300,000 prize fund, every match carries immense weight. The stage is set for a truly high-calibre display of skill, strategy, and sheer athleticism.
The Reigning Queen's International Baptism: Anna Leigh Waters Arrives
All eyes will be on Anna Leigh Waters, the undisputed phenomenon of pickleball. This marks her groundbreaking international debut, and she's not just participating—she's dominating the seedings.
Waters enters as the top seed in both Women's Doubles, where she teams up with the formidable Anna Bright, and in Mixed Doubles alongside the legendary Ben Johns. With over 190 gold medals already to her name, the quest for her 200th career gold begins on Asian soil. Her presence alone elevates the tournament's profile immensely.
Johns Joins Forces: A Quest for Asian Gold
Not to be outdone, Ben Johns, often hailed as the greatest of all time, anchors the Men's Doubles draw. He partners with Gabe Tardio as the top-seeded tandem, a pairing designed for dominance.
Johns has seen success across the globe but has notably settled for silver and bronze in his previous 2025 Asian appearances. The MB Hanoi Cup presents a prime opportunity for him to finally claim that elusive Asian gold, a significant milestone even for a player of his caliber.
The Battle for Singles Supremacy: Men's Field Ignites
The Men's Singles bracket is poised for explosive action. Federico Staksrud, the World No.2 from Argentina, leads the charge, eager to reclaim the top global ranking. His bronze at last December's Vibrant Linping Hangzhou Open proves his capability on the regional stage.
Close on his heels is second seed Christian Alshon, who will be looking to replicate his commanding performance at last year's Panas Malaysia Cup. The bracket also features third seed Connor Garnett, a proven Asian champion who captured a Triple Crown at the Sansan Fukuoka Open 2025.
Women's Singles: New Faces and Formidable Challengers
On the women's side, the Singles draw showcases a thrilling mix of established stars and rising forces. Kate Fahey, the World No.2, makes her first foray into Asia as the top seed. With five singles titles among her 20 PPA singles medals, she's a clear favorite.
However, a significant challenge comes from World No.3 Kaitlyn Christian, fresh off her triumph at the Panas Malaysia Cup. Also watch for sixth seed Sahra Dennehy, who closed out 2025 with an incredible run, securing back-to-back gold medals at the MB Vietnam Cup and the Vibrant Linping Hangzhou Open without dropping a single match. Her momentum is undeniable.
The Stakes Are Sky-High in Hanoi
As players converge on Hanoi, the magnitude of the MB Hanoi Cup is undeniable. The combination of fierce competition, significant PPA ranking points, and a substantial prize pool guarantees a spectacle.
This tournament is not just about individual titles; it's a testament to the surging global appeal of pickleball. The world is watching to see who will seize the moment and etch their name into history at the MB Hanoi Cup 2026.
