Leander Lazaro is one of the Philippines’ established pickleball stars—and he happens to carry significant weight, having made a name for himself in tennis first before transitioning to the world’s fastest‑rising sport.
Now, he is a fully licensed professional pickleball player, having obtained his licence from the country’s Games and Amusement Board (GAB) over the past week in preparation for his stint in the newly launched Maharlika Pilipinas Pickleball Tournament (MPPT), where he will be suiting up for the Parañaque Titans.
Leander Lazaro Aware of Big Responsibility as a Pro
The 33‑year‑old, widely recognised as the Philippines’ top male pickleball player, isn’t taking his licence lightly.
“Four days ago, I took my oath as a professional pickleball player under the Games and Amusements Board. For me, this is more than just getting a licence or being recognised as a professional athlete. It comes with a responsibility. A responsibility to compete with integrity. To respect the people who make this sport possible. To represent Philippine pickleball the right way,” Lazaro wrote on social media on Saturday.
Lazaro, of course, has been doing all that even before obtaining his GAB licence. It is why he has become one of the Philippines’ biggest and most recognisable movers of pickleball. And now, he is looking to play an even bigger part in its growth.
“Pickleball is growing really fast in the Philippines, and we’re still building what this sport will look like for the next generation. I believe all of us who are part of it have a role in that. The players. The coaches. The organisers. The officials. The communities. We all have a part in setting the standard,” he further wrote.
Incidentally, Leander Lazaro is one of the biggest stars of MPPT, which likely will play as big a role, too, in growing pickleball in the Philippines and setting the standard.
Keeping That Big Responsibility in Mind
History will ultimately emphasise the role of Leander Lazaro and his peers as pioneers of pickleball in the Philippines. After all, he is a first‑generation pro for lack of a better term, and he’s very much aware of it.
“I’m grateful to be part of this generation of Filipino players and to have the opportunity to contribute, not just by competing, but by helping build the sport along the way,” Lazaro added. “The licence gives us recognition. The oath reminds us of the responsibility that comes with it.”
Not that Leander Lazaro needs an oath and a licence to represent pickleball the best way he can. He’s been doing it anyway. But the oath and the licence are certainly nice reminders.
Best believe this veteran will do his part.
