The doors have closed on registration for the Hang Seng Bank Hong Kong Slam, and what a rush it was. Within minutes of opening, hundreds of hopefuls had already signed up, and by the end, more than 1,000 players from across the globe had thrown their names into the hat.
The numbers tell the story. In the first half hour alone, 280 players registered. By the end of the first day, that figure had soared past 730. Demand never slowed, and when the deadline finally arrived, entries had poured in from over 25 countries and territories. The hype around pickleball’s first‑ever PPA Asia 1500 event is undeniable.
Hong Kong Leads the Charge
Local players made their presence felt, with more than 650 Hongkongers signing up to compete on home soil. The United States sent the largest international contingent, with over 70 players—most of them eyeing the Pro brackets. The Philippines and Mainland China each contributed more than 50 entries, while Malaysia, Chinese Taipei, Australia, Japan, and Vietnam all added strong numbers.
And the reach didn’t stop there. From Canada and Mexico to Great Britain, France, Spain, New Zealand, Brazil, and Bolivia, pickleball’s global footprint was clear.
From Juniors to Veterans and More
The age range is as wide as the map. The youngest registered players are just 9 years old, while the oldest is 71. Juniors are well represented, with 82 players aged 18 and under. Women account for 40% of the field, spread across both Pro and amateur divisions.
Vietnam is one to watch. Half of its players are 23 or younger, most of them entered in the Pro events. Mainland China, the Philippines, India, and Cambodia also fielded youthful squads, signalling a new wave of Asian pickleball talent ready to make its mark.
In total, more than 2,100 entries were lodged across 40 events. Over 340 players signed up for the Pro side, while nearly 800 filled the amateur brackets. Mixed Doubles emerged as the clear favourite, drawing 685 entries across both levels of play.
All Roads Lead to Kai Tak
The final entry list is still being confirmed, but one thing is certain—the world has already committed to pickleball in Hong Kong. With the tournament set for 19–25 October at Kai Tak Arena, anticipation is building for what promises to be a landmark week in the sport.
Announcements, line‑ups, and more details are on the way. For fans, tickets are already on sale, and the chance to witness pickleball history at the Hang Seng Bank Hong Kong Slam is not to be missed.
