Malaysia’s Rising Pickleball Talents Deliver Strong Performances in PCL Asia Rising Stars

Malaysia’s next wave of pickleball talent is beginning to take shape—and eight teenagers have just taken a major step forward.

These young standouts earned their places in the regional spotlight after delivering strong performances in a national selection event tied to the Pickleball Champions League (PCL) Asia Rising Stars programme. The tournament, staged at Grand Pickleball Arena, doubled as Malaysia’s Under-19 qualifier for the Asia Rising Stars Grand Finale set in Hainan, China.

Organised by the Malaysia Chinese Assembly Hall (MCAH) Youth Division, the competition attracted participants from across the country, including Penang, Perak, Negri Sembilan, Melaka, Sabah, and Sarawak. The turnout reflects how quickly pickleball is gaining ground among Malaysia’s youth, with talent now emerging well beyond traditional sporting hubs.

The event is one of several held across Asia to identify top junior players, with each country sending its best to compete at the regional level. Only the top finishers earned progression—and with it, the so-called “Dream Ticket” to represent Malaysia against elite peers from across the continent.

In the girls’ division, Lim Lynn rose above the field to secure the title. Chan Yu Chi followed in second place, with Jaymie Ngow and Catherine Eva Liew completing the top four. The boys’ bracket saw Lok Jien Sen emerge victorious, ahead of Irfan Kamil Irwan Kamil, Farreez Isqandar, and Ryan Lim.

However, the pathway does not end with qualification. The Rising Stars initiative is also designed to nurture long-term development. Those who excel in Hainan may be selected for further training under the Asia Elite Pickleball Academy, where they will be exposed to advanced coaching and international standards of play.

Preparation is already underway. The selected players are set to undergo a structured training phase, highlighted by a camp scheduled from April 1 to 3. Leading the programme is professional player-coach James Ignatowich, who will guide the athletes through tactical refinement and technical improvement. National coach Gee Ci Long will also accompany the team to China to provide on-ground support.

With both opportunity and expectation ahead, Malaysia’s young squad now carries not just potential, but a clear pathway to compete—and grow—on a bigger stage.