The 2024 Asia Pickleball Games (APG), held from October 24-27 at the Taichung International Tennis Center in Taiwan, marked a milestone in the growing popularity of pickleball across Asia. Organized by the Asia Federation of Pickleball (AFP) in collaboration with the Chinese Taipei Pickleball Association, the event attracted 780 players from 11 countries and regions, making it one of the largest tournaments exclusively for Asian players. The APG is a unique platform dedicated to identifying and showcasing the best pickleball talent in Asia, and this year’s event exceeded expectations.
The Games began with an energetic opening ceremony, attended by Deputy Mayor Zheng Chaoxin of Taichung, representing Mayor Lu Shiow-yen. Deputy Mayor Zheng expressed his pride in Taichung's role as the host city and underscored the city's commitment to promoting "Sports for All." A significant moment of the ceremony was the signing of the Asia University Pickleball Network (APUN) agreement by four leading universities: Taiwan’s Asia University, Japan’s Yamaguchi University, Korea’s Yonsei University, and Vietnam’s Ho Chi Minh City University of Sports. This collaboration aims to integrate pickleball into higher education institutions, fostering both athletic and academic development.
The competition showcased high-level matches across various divisions, highlighting the skill and determination of players from different backgrounds. Notably, Japan had a strong contingent, and the event uncovered emerging talent throughout Asia. The matches were filled with intense rallies and dramatic finishes, capturing the competitive yet inclusive spirit of the sport.
The event’s success was made possible by its generous sponsors and partners. Joola, the title sponsor, along with Pickleball Tournament/Brackets and DUPR, which efficiently managed match results through tournament software, played key roles. Diadem, ProXR, Prokennex, and several other equipment brands introduced premium products, enhancing the experience for both players and spectators. These partnerships underscored the growing investment in pickleball’s future in Asia.
Beyond the competition, the Games had a positive impact on the community. The inclusive nature of pickleball was on full display, as players of all ages and skill levels participated, fostering camaraderie among athletes and fans alike. Volunteers and local leaders were instrumental in supporting the event, helping reinforce Taichung’s reputation as an international sports hub.
The 2024 Asia Pickleball Games underscored AFP’s commitment to elevating pickleball as a premier sport in Asia. The recognition by the United Pickleball Association (UPA) and the launch of the APUN initiative established a solid foundation for the sport's continued growth. Looking ahead, AFP plans to expand junior and university leagues, nurture new talent, and strengthen partnerships to maintain momentum.
As a celebration of pickleball’s current success and a glimpse into its bright future in Asia, the 2024 Games set the stage for even greater achievements. The 2025 edition, set to be hosted by the Pickleball Japan Federation in Tokyo, promises to be even bigger and better, continuing AFP’s mission to unite communities through this vibrant and accessible sport.
Pickleball Unites
Historic Unification Announced: The International Pickleball Federation (IPF) and World Pickleball Federation (WPF) have officially announced the merger to create a unified global governing body, marking a pivotal moment in the growth and development of the sport.
Press Release from International Pickleball Federation, Inc
Press release from World Pickleball Federation
The 2 Presidents met in October 2024 in Taiwan and laid the foundation of the merger. Â
Pictured left to right: Seymour Rifkind (President WPF), Arvind Prabhoo (President IPF), Hogan Lai (Chairman of Asia Federation of Pickleball, AFP) and Jimmy Tan (CEO & Secretary of AFP).
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