Get ready, sports fans—Đà Nẵng just served an ace straight into the international pickleball scene! The coastal city played host to the electrifying PPA Tour Asia – MB Vietnam Cup 2025, and oh boy, was it a smash hit. With nearly 600 athletes, thousands of fans, and star-studded guest appearances, this wasn’t just a tournament—it was a celebration of global sportsmanship, Vietnamese hospitality, and a rising love for pickleball in Asia.
Welcome to the Pickleball Playground: Đà Nẵng
Stepping up as host for the very first time, Đà Nẵng rolled out the red carpet for one of the world’s biggest pickleball competitions. The event took place over five action-packed days (from September 30 to October 4) at the Tiên Sơn Sports Complex and the newly minted Tuyên Sơn Sports Village.
It wasn’t just the matches that stole the show—think: opening ceremonies with flair, buzzy exhibitions, media frenzy, and a vibrant energy that could power the entire Đông Nam Bộ region.
A Historic First for Vietnam… and Asia
Organized by the Đà Nẵng Pickleball Association in collaboration with FPT Play and the America & Asia Connection Co., Ltd (AAC), this marks the PPA Tour Asia series’ first-time appearance in Vietnam—and Asia, at that!
According to Dương Quang Thuận, Director of AAC and Head of the Organizing Committee, the event wouldn’t have been possible without the full support of the city:
“Thanks to Đà Nẵng’s warm embrace, we’re thrilled to bring world-class pickleball to Vietnam—along with unforgettable experiences for players and fans alike.”
Big Names, Bigger Games
You know a sport is leveling up when legends show up—and this tournament was packed with heavy hitters!
In the Professional (Pro) division, the courts saw appearances from:
- 🏆 Ben Johns – the G.O.A.T. of pickleball with more than 150 PPA Tour titles in the U.S.
- 💪 Tyson McGuffin – crowd-favorite and style icon of international pickleball.
- 🌍 Trịnh Linh Giang & Phúc Huỳnh – representing Vietnam and proving homegrown talent belongs on top-tier courts.
Let’s Not Forget Our Celebrities!
Beyond the pros, the Celebrity Cup brought fresh excitement, blending competitive spirit with star-studded charm. Actors like Tuấn Hưng, Chi Bảo, Minh Tiệp, and Bình Minh took to the courts alongside artists and influencers, winning hearts with their hustle and humor.
This blend of sport and spectacle made the PPA Tour Asia – MB Vietnam Cup more than a tournament—it was an event for everyone.
Fueling the Local Sports Scene
More than just a global showdown, this event gave Vietnamese players and fans a much-needed spark. Trần Phước Sơn, Chairman of the Đà Nẵng Pickleball Association, emphasized how valuable this opportunity was:
“It’s not just about the matches—it’s about inspiring our local athletes and growing a sustainable sports culture right here in our city.”
By rubbing paddles with some of the best in the world, local talents gained exposure, experience, and most importantly: belief.
Guinness World Record Attempt
Yep, you read that right. The grand finale on October 4 wasn’t just the championship game—it was also a record-setting spectacle! With hopes of drawing over 6,000 spectators, Đà Nẵng aimed to host the world’s largest audience ever for a pickleball match. Plus, fans enjoyed the West’s favorite sport in true Vietnamese style with the Vietnam Sport Festival—a massive exhibition celebrating all things health, wellness, and movement.
What’s Next for Vietnam and Pickleball?
This event might be a closer on the calendar—but it’s a clear opener of new chapters. Expect pickleball courts to start popping up in more parks, training programs to blossom, and Đà Nẵng to become an annual stop on the international tour.
Hold on to your paddles, folks… Vietnam’s serving for match point!
📸 Missed the action? Check out official photos from the incredible opening night and beyond at DanangFantasticity.com.
📢 Official press release from Đà Nẵng city government: danang.gov.vn
✨ Whether you’re a die-hard fan, a curious local, or just someone who loves discovering sports with heart, one thing is for sure: The PPA Tour Asia – MB Vietnam Cup 2025 was a game-changer. See you on the court next year? 🏓