The roar of the crowd is getting louder, and the stakes are climbing higher as the PPA Tour Asia unveils its formidable lineup of official paddle partners for the upcoming season. With Facolos, Franklin Sports, and Paddletek throwing their significant weight behind the region's premier professional series, Asian pickleball is set to explode onto the global stage.
These partnerships aren't just about equipment; they're a powerful declaration of confidence in Asia as the next major frontier for the sport. This commitment promises to elevate both the competitive intensity and the fan experience to unprecedented levels.
Key Takeaways:
- Facolos, Franklin Sports, and Paddletek named official paddle partners for the PPA Tour Asia.
- The collaborations underscore the immense global confidence in Asia as a key market for pickleball.
- These partnerships will significantly enhance competitive play and spectator engagement.
- The 2026 PPA Tour Asia season kicks off with the MB Hanoi Cup offering a massive US$300,000 prize purse.
A Global Statement: Powering Asia's Pickleball Surge
Each of these powerhouse brands brings unique credentials to the table, showcasing a united front in pushing pickleball's international expansion. Their continued support serves as a resounding endorsement of the sport's rapidly growing footprint, especially across the vibrant Asian market.
Facolos: An Asian Visionary Stepping Onto the World Stage
Born and developed by a Vietnamese team, Facolos stands as a pioneering Asian brand dedicated to bridging the global pickleball community. Their continued, multi-season partnership with the PPA Tour Asia isn't merely about top-tier products; it represents a bold, long-term vision for pickleball's growth both within Asia and globally.
The brand's ambition is evident in its roster, featuring none other than Gabriel Tardio, the World No. 1 Men’s Doubles player, alongside formidable PPA Asia talents like Yufei Long and Sahra Dennehy. This strategic recruitment highlights Facolos's commitment to a full performance ecosystem, with 2026 poised to be a landmark year for their technologically advanced designs.
Jessica Vo, Vice President of Facolos, shared her excitement: “2026 marks a transformation year for Facolos. With a comprehensive product system and strong investment in international activities, we believe Facolos can become a driving force that helps elevate Asian pickleball onto the global stage.”
Franklin Sports: An Enduring Legacy Fuels International Ambition
With an incredible 80-year legacy, Franklin Sports is a name synonymous with trust and quality in sporting goods. Their pickleball division consistently delivers innovative, performance-driven equipment, making them a globally recognized leader in the sport. Players of all skill levels, from beginners to champions, rely on Franklin.
This trust is visibly reflected in their impressive athlete roster, which includes World No. 1 Anna Leigh Waters, along with stars like Hayden Patriquin, Parris Todd, and Malaysia’s top player, Jimmy Liong. Franklin's commitment to the PPA Tour Asia underscores their dedication to nurturing world-class competition and introducing more fans to the sport they love.
Jared Franklin, Head of International at Franklin Sports, emphasized their mission: “As pickleball continues to expand internationally, we’re excited to work alongside the PPA Asia Tour to help grow the sport throughout the region. Franklin Pickleball has always focused on innovation and accessibility, and continuing our partnership with PPA Asia is a reflection of our commitment to supporting world-class competition while helping introduce more players and fans across Asia to the game we love.”
Paddletek: Innovation at the Core of Elite Performance
Since its inception in 2010, Paddletek has been relentlessly pushing the boundaries of paddle technology. Their core belief: superior equipment empowers players to unlock their full potential. Known for unwavering focus on engineering precision, performance, and athlete collaboration, Paddletek has earned its reputation as one of the sport's most trusted brands.
Paddletek paddles are engineered for those who demand excellence, from casual backyard matches to the intense pressure of the PPA Tour championships. Their star-studded lineup, featuring Christian Alshon, Connor Garnett, Max Freeman, Riley Newman, and Zane Navratil, continuously collaborates with the brand to develop paddles that embody Paddletek's Bigger, Bolder, Better commitment to innovation.
Ron Saslow, Founder and Managing Partner at Thirty-5 Capital and CEO of the Paddletek Group, commented: “As pickleball continues its incredible global growth, expanding our partnership with the PPA provides an exciting opportunity to bring the worldwide pickleball community closer together.”
The 2026 Season: Ready for Liftoff in Hanoi!
The excitement culminates with the highly anticipated 2026 PPA Tour Asia season, boasting 10 tournaments already locked into the calendar. The action kicks off spectacularly with the MB Hanoi Cup, scheduled from April 1–5. This inaugural event promises fierce competition and a substantial US$300,000 in prize money, all taking place at the impressive My Dinh Indoor Athletics Arena in Hanoi, Vietnam. Get ready for a pickleball spectacle!
