The MB Hanoi Cup 2026 wasted no time delivering storylines, and on opening day, it was the host nation that set the tone.
Vietnam swept all four Men’s Singles qualifying spots, giving the home crowd plenty to celebrate as Pham Xuanvu, Giang Trinh, Hien Truong, and Nguyen Hoang punched their tickets to the main draw. It was a statement start—and a sign that local talent is ready to contend.
Three of the four made quick work of their assignments. Trinh, Truong, and Hoang advanced in straight games, showing control and composure throughout. Pham, however, had to grind. Facing UPA Asia Rising Star Timothy Foo, he survived a three-game battle, 11-5, 11-13, 11-7, to secure his place.
Foo had entered the match riding momentum after eliminating Panas Malaysia Open 2025 silver medalist Vanshik Kapadia in the previous round. But Pham proved too steady when it mattered, shutting the door on what had been a promising run.
While Vietnam owned the men’s side, Canada made its presence felt in Women’s Singles.
Jada Bui and Louise Kwong both advanced through qualifying, setting up main draw appearances in Hanoi. Bui, in particular, arrives with momentum, having already captured three PPA Challenger singles titles in the United States. With that pedigree, she shapes up as one of the players to watch as the tournament progresses.
Beyond the results, qualifying also produced one of the more compelling narratives of the tournament.
Giang Trinh and Vanshik Kapadia—recent opponents in the Panas Malaysia Open 2025 Men’s Singles final—have now joined forces as a first-time Men’s Doubles pairing. From rivals to partners, the duo secured a main draw spot together, marking a full-circle moment to open their 2026 campaigns.
In Mixed Doubles, the biggest surprise came courtesy of Leander Lazaro and Sarah Jane Lim. The pair pulled off a convincing upset over Connie Lee and Luc Pham, 11-3, 11-9.
On paper, the result raised eyebrows. Pham was recently drafted to Major League Pickleball in the United States, while Lee brings proven credentials, including a silver medal finish at the Hong Kong Open 2025 alongside Trinh. None of that mattered on the day. Lazaro and Lim dictated the pace and never let their opponents settle.
With qualifying wrapped, attention now shifts to the main draw, which begins at 8:00 a.m. (GMT+7) on April 2. The Round of 32 and Round of 16 will unfold across all pro events, with momentum, matchups, and early statements already shaping what promises to be a compelling week in Hanoi.
