News & Stories
Apr 8, 2025
When tennis legend Andre Agassi arrived in Vietnam for the very first time, he was met with warm smiles, energetic fans, and a sport that’s taking root faster than anyone imagined—pickleball. On March 26 at Ho Chi Minh City’s Rach Mieu Stadium, Agassi, now 54, stood before the media and humbly admitted: "In my tennis career, I have been to many places but only now have the opportunity to come to Vietnam. I regret this delay."
And what a moment to arrive.
As part of the JOOLA 2025 Asia Pickleball Tour, Agassi is traveling across the continent with a superstar lineup of pickleball elites, including current world No.1 Ben Johns, Tyson McGuffin, Anna Bright, Collin Johns, Brooke Buckner, and Zoey Chao. Their mission? To ignite enthusiasm, share elite techniques, and help Asia—and especially Vietnam—embrace the world’s fastest-growing sport.
From Grand Slams to Paddle Swings
Agassi’s credentials in tennis are legendary: eight Grand Slam titles, a 1996 Olympic gold medal, and a spot at the top of the ATP rankings. But since retiring from professional tennis in 2006, he’s found a new calling in pickleball—a sport he now shares with his wife, fellow tennis legend Steffi Graf. Together, they’ve become one of the most recognized pickleball power couples in the United States.
Their journey reflects a broader trend. Pickleball has exploded in popularity across the U.S., with millions—including business leaders and celebrities—picking up a paddle. Now, that energy is catching fire in Asia, and Agassi believes Vietnam is poised to become a major player.
"I know that the source of energy, inspiration and love for pickleball in Vietnam is huge," Agassi shared with excitement. "That makes me happy to be in Vietnam to share experiences and exchange techniques, so that you can understand more about this sport."
(Photo Source: https://vnexpress.net/andre-agassi-tiem-nang-pickleball-viet-nam-rat-lon-4866206.html)
Vietnam’s Pickleball Boom
Vietnam is experiencing a pickleball revolution. Courts are popping up in cities from Ho Chi Minh to Hanoi, and tennis courts are being converted to welcome this accessible, fast-paced sport. Perhaps most notably, national tennis star Ly Hoang Nam has announced his transition from tennis to professional pickleball—a major signal of the sport’s rising stature.
Agassi sees this grassroots growth as a golden opportunity. "No matter where you play, creating a healthy playground is still the best thing," he emphasized. "Organizers must find a way for pickleball players to practice and exchange more skills, meet more experienced players to share knowledge."
His message resonates in a country where sports culture is evolving rapidly and inclusivity is key. Pickleball, with its simple rules and all-ages appeal, could become the perfect fit.
A World Champion’s Welcome
Ben Johns, the top-ranked pickleball player in the world, echoed Agassi’s sentiment, visibly moved by the Vietnamese fans’ energy. "I have been playing pickleball since 2016, a long and impressive journey. I am happy that more and more people are participating in this sport, not only in Vietnam but also around the world. I hope the sport will develop more and connect players here."
The JOOLA 2025 Pickleball Tour’s stop in Ho Chi Minh City was just the beginning. With Hanoi next on the schedule, the movement continues to gain momentum. As players showcase their talents and connect with local communities, pickleball is quickly becoming more than a sport—it’s a cultural bridge and a new way for people to stay active, social, and inspired.
(Photo Source: https://www.vietnam.vn/es/huyen-thoai-agassi-toi-tiec-vi-khong-den-viet-nam-som-hon)
A Future Filled with Potential
Andre Agassi’s late arrival to Vietnam may have been filled with regret, but his presence now is packed with purpose. His voice, passion, and experience are helping to spotlight a sport that’s transforming lives around the world—and now, in Vietnam too.
"Being able to visit so many places, interact, and compete with so many athletes from so many countries fills me with excitement," Agassi said. And with that excitement, Vietnam’s pickleball scene is ready to rally.
