The final rally has been played, the medals have been awarded, and Malaysia has officially stamped its name on the global pickleball map. After six adrenaline-fuelled days, the Leapmotor APP Kuala Lumpur Open wrapped up in spectacular fashion, delivering historic firsts, stunning upsets, and a powerful statement about Asia’s rising influence in the sport.
Leapmotor APP Kuala Lumpur Open Sets A New Benchmark For Asia
Hosted at PLAYA Racquet Club @ PARC Subang, the inaugural Asian stop of the Association of Pickleball Players U.S. Tour exceeded expectations on every level. A record-breaking 1,760 players from 28 countries competed across professional and amateur divisions, fighting for a combined prize pool of over RM210,000.
The tournament’s scale and competitive intensity reinforced Kuala Lumpur as a serious global destination for elite pickleball, aligning seamlessly with Malaysia’s broader sports tourism ambitions.
A Triple Crown And Thrilling Pro Finals
One of the most talked-about moments of the Leapmotor APP Kuala Lumpur Open came from world No.1 Sofia Sewing, who delivered a flawless performance to claim a rare Triple Crown by winning Women’s Singles, Women’s Doubles, and Mixed Doubles.
The men’s professional events were equally gripping. The Pro Singles final saw a historic all-Asian showdown, while the doubles matches delivered edge-of-the-seat rallies that kept fans glued until the final point. The level of play, observers noted, reflected just how global (and competitive) the sport has become.
Malaysian Duo Steals The Spotlight
While international stars dominated the podium, the loudest cheers were reserved for Malaysia’s own breakout heroes. Entering the Pro Mixed Doubles as the 38th seeds, local pair Sabrina Gee Zhen Hzui and Loh Shi Sheng stunned a top-six seeded team in what many called the upset of the tournament.
Their run into the Round of 16 marked the deepest professional advancement ever achieved by Malaysian players at this level, a milestone moment that signals exciting times ahead for local pickleball talent.
Building The Future Of Pickleball
The Leapmotor APP Kuala Lumpur Open was about more than trophies. Through the CelcomDigi APP NEXT junior pathway, young athletes were given a direct route to international exposure, including elite training opportunities in the United States.
With strong backing from title partner Leapmotor, the event showcased how sport, youth development, and innovation can intersect to create a lasting legacy. As officials noted, this tournament didn’t just conclude a competition but it also launched a new chapter for pickleball in Malaysia and the wider region.
