News & Stories
Mar 5, 2025
In a groundbreaking development for racquet sports in Asia, Mission Hills Group and Ram Sports have joined forces to establish the world's largest indoor pickleball facility in Haikou, China. The announcement comes alongside plans for the inaugural Pickleball World Championships, scheduled for December 2025 in the stunning Hainan Free Trade Port.
"It is a great honor to stand in front of you today at this momentous occasion, as Mission Hills Group and Ram Sports collaborate to support the development of pickleball, one of the most dynamic and quickly growing sports in the world," declared Tenniel Chu, Vice Chairman of Mission Hills Group, his enthusiasm palpable during the signing ceremony.
The partnership's ambitious vision? To introduce 100 million new players to pickleball in China over the next five years, supported by the construction of 10,000 courts across the nation.
(Photo Source: https://www.missionhillschina.com/en/news/20241023/)
For those new to the sport, pickleball is an engaging blend of tennis, badminton, and table tennis, played with a paddle and a distinctive plastic ball with holes. Its simple rules and inclusive nature make it perfect for players of all ages and skill levels – from curious beginners to competitive athletes.
The centerpiece of this historic partnership will be a state-of-the-art facility at Mission Hills Resort in Haikou, featuring not just the world's largest indoor pickleball court, but also comprehensive training facilities. "Professional venues and expert coaching staff are crucial for pickleball's development," emphasized Ram Sports President Alex Yuan. The complex will include medical rehabilitation facilities, physical training centers, and specialized athlete accommodation.
(Photo Source: https://www.chinadailyhk.com/hk/article/351471)
The World Pickleball Federation and International Pickleball Training Professional Association are throwing their full support behind this initiative. Federation Chairman Seymour Rifkind announced that the 2025 Pickleball Games will transform Haikou into a vibrant hub of activity, featuring competitive matches, educational forums, and city tours that showcase both the sport and the region's unique charm.
This strategic partnership positions Hainan – China's largest free trade area – as the epicenter of pickleball's Asian explosion. The island's advantageous location and progressive policies create the perfect environment for the sport's growth. Ram Sports will establish China's first professional pickleball base here, introducing world-class training programs and resources to elevate the sport throughout Asia.
(Photo Source: https://www.golfholidays.com/haikou-mission-hills-resort/)
The development goes beyond just building courts – it's about creating a comprehensive ecosystem for the sport. The Mission Hills-Ram Sports collaboration will establish a dedicated pickleball training center and academy, while also hosting the annual World Pickleball Forum Summit. These initiatives aim to standardize training methods and provide both residents and tourists with exciting new recreational opportunities.
As pickleball continues its meteoric rise globally, this partnership marks a significant milestone in the sport's international development. With world-class facilities, professional training programs, and the backing of major organizations, Haikou is poised to become a premier destination for pickleball enthusiasts across Asia and beyond.
The countdown to the 2025 Pickleball World Championships has begun, and the future of pickleball in Asia has never looked brighter. Game on!
