World Pickleball Day brought celebrities, athletes and players of all ages together at Tomaz Pickleball Court in Subang Jaya, as ASICS Malaysia hosted a social pickleball gathering to celebrate the sport’s thriving community. Held in conjunction with the global celebration on 10 October, the morning celebrated connection and the joy of movement.
ASICS ambassador Hariz Hamdan led the line-up, joined by actors and personalities Adeline Tsen, Adlin Aman Ramlie, Dr Ahmad Idham, Elvina Mohammad, Emelda Rosmila, Fad Anuar, Harris Alif, Ika Nabella, Intan Ladyana, Riz Amin and Yasmin Hani Richardson. National squash player Aifa Azman also stepped onto the court, alongside pickleball enthusiasts and content creators Atita Haris, Jenn Chia and Linus Teng.
A World Pickleball Day Welcome From Hariz Hamdan
Now in his sixth year with ASICS, Hariz Hamdan opened the session by welcoming participants and sharing the brand’s commitment to active lifestyles. He spoke about the inclusive spirit of pickleball and its shared love of the game.
The gathering also championed the ASICS founding philosophy of Sound Mind, Sound Body, and the brand’s support for athletes of every level.
Why Pickleball Is Winning Hearts in Malaysia
Boon Tib Soom Nik, Country Manager of ASICS Malaysia, said the sport reflects a more inclusive, community-driven approach to staying active.
“Pickleball brings people of all ages and abilities, from children to seasoned athletes, together on the court. Beyond gameplay, it encourages social connection and community bonding, with its doubles format and compact court giving players plenty of chances to interact,” he said.
“At ASICS, supporting this community remains a key priority, not only through performance innovation, but also by ensuring every player feels confident and comfortable on court with every step.”
Throughout the World Pickleball Day morning, dedicated pickleball sessions let participants experience first-hand how ASICS technology enhances comfort, stability and confidence on court.
Yasmin Hani Richardson and Son Noah Bond Over the Game
Dressed in ASICS apparel, actress Yasmin Hani Richardson joined in with her son, Noah Ismail Wong, the youngest player on the court.
“I’m so proud to see Noah hold his own against adult players,” said Yasmin. “Sports have become our way to bond, through conversation, playing together and cheering each other on. It’s never a boring routine.”
Noah, who dreams of turning professional, enjoys studying how adults play. “A lot of players struggle with their backhands, especially when the shots come hard, so I like to target that side,” he shared. For now, he wants to keep learning and join more tournaments.
Their World Pickleball Day outing showed how pickleball is winning over families and lifestyle communities looking for a fun, social way to stay active.
Quality Time on Court for Harris Alif and Intan Ladyana
For celebrity couple Harris Alif and Intan Ladyana, pickleball was a relaxed way to bond and stay active together. Playing alongside familiar faces eased the pressure, while ASICS apparel and footwear kept them moving comfortably.
Squash Star Aifa Azman Tries a New Sport
Fresh from contributing to four of Malaysia’s five squash titles at the Aichi-Nagoya 2026 Asian Games, Aifa Azman showed off her court precision with backhand volley drops and kill shots.
“Everyone was so supportive and willing to teach me the different techniques,” said Aifa. “Playing women’s doubles was a great learning experience, as the ball behaves differently from the rubber ball used in squash, and pickleball also involves techniques such as topspin.”
Next up for her is the US Open, as she aims to break into the world’s top 20.
World Pickleball Day Doubles Winners
The morning wrapped up with a friendly doubles match. The winning pairs took home ASICS merchandise for bringing their A-game:
- First place: Lilian Tan and Gracey PB
- Second place: Atita Haris and Fad Anuar
- Third place: Emelda Rosmila and Adlin Aman Ramlie
It caps a big year for the sport locally, from the Leapmotor APP Kuala Lumpur Open crowning Asia’s first pro champions to the return of the Paramount Cup 2026.
Built for the Demands of Pickleball
Beyond World Pickleball Day, ASICS brings its indoor court sports expertise to pickleball, applying its understanding of athletes and movement. Its footwear delivers the cushioning, grip and stability that quick changes of direction demand.
Players can also join the OneASICS™ membership programme for exclusive benefits and insights. Find out more on the ASICS Malaysia website.
