Gabe Tardio has his sights on Asia this year.
The 20-year-old standout, who is currently No. 1 in Men’s Doubles and No. 6 in Mixed Doubles, is looking forward to competing in Asia this season, in part because he wants to test himself and in part because he wants to experience what he believes is an “awesome” pickleball-crazy crowd.
“I had a couple of friends who went there last year, including my doubles partner Ben Johns,” Tardio told PPA Tour Asia. “It looked awesome. The crowds were large there, and people are really into it. I’m looking forward to going myself. The main thing I took away when I watched is that the people there just absolutely love it. They’re so passionate; they got so into it.”
Gabe Tardio Raring to Compete in Asia
Of course, the competition aspect isn’t lost on Tardio. In fact, he’s welcoming it and is ready to make the necessary adjustments in order to excel in Asia.
“I’m really looking forward to the challenge in Asia. I know the play style over there is different, and you’re playing in different conditions as well,” he noted. “It’s all about making adjustments, and that’s one of the reasons why I love the game.”
Incidentally, Tardio’s decision to link up with Asian brand Facolos is directly tied to his goal of conquering Asia sometime this year. Facolos, of course, is one of PPA Tour Asia’s official paddle partners and is a Vietnam-based brand. Needless to say, for a player with Asia firmly in his sights and a brand looking to go truly global, the alignment made sense.
“One of the things I really wanted to do was go to Asia, compete outside of the United States, and play tournaments all around the world,” Tardio explained. “Facolos being an Asia-based company made sense, and I genuinely think they have the best paddle. They’re innovating—they’re not going to be left behind.”
Clearly, Gabe Tardio is a man with a plan, and pickleball fans in Asia are sure fortunate that an Asian invasion this season is part of that plan.
