Pro Picklers
Mar 3, 2025
Lingwei Kong was born and raised in Guangzhou, China, where she first made a name for herself as a promising tennis player. Her early career saw her competing as a touring professional on the ITF Tour in Asia from 2016 to 2018, refining her skills on the international stage. Seeking both athletic and academic advancement, Kong moved to the United States in 2019 to join Wichita State University, where she played #1 singles and doubles for the Wichita State Women’s Tennis Team.
Transition to Pickleball
Kong's journey into pickleball began in late 2022 when she was introduced to the sport through the PPA (Professional Pickleball Association) community in Wichita. With her strong background in tennis, she quickly adapted to the nuances of pickleball, demonstrating remarkable hand-eye coordination, strategic shot-making, and an impressive ability to cover the court.
Recognizing her potential, Kong took a bold step and transitioned into professional pickleball. She made her pro debut at the PPA Tour’s Seattle Open in July 2023, marking the beginning of what promises to be an impactful career in the sport.
(Photo Source: https://www.threads.net/@k_lingwei/post/C_pNSUjx24y)
Achievements and Influence
Though relatively new to pickleball, Kong’s rapid rise through the professional ranks is a testament to her athleticism, adaptability, and dedication. Her background in high-level tennis has given her a competitive edge, allowing her to challenge seasoned pickleball professionals. She has already earned several notable victories and strong finishes in PPA Tour events, consistently competing against top-ranked players.
Kong has achieved podium finishes in multiple professional tournaments, showcasing her ability to excel in both singles and doubles events. Her standout performances include a top-three finish at the Texas Open and a deep run in the Nationals, where she defeated several established pros. As she continues to compete, her ranking in the pro circuit is steadily rising, further cementing her reputation as a formidable player.
Beyond her personal achievements, Kong is deeply passionate about promoting pickleball, particularly in Asia and her home country of China. She has partnered with Lunar Pickleball, a major sponsor, to help increase awareness and participation in the sport across the region. Given Asia’s rich history in racket sports like badminton, table tennis, and tennis, Kong sees tremendous potential for pickleball to flourish in the region.
(Photo Source: https://www.threads.net/@k_lingwei/post/C-5m2P1vN9e)
Expanding Pickleball’s Reach in Asia
As pickleball continues to grow globally, Kong is positioned as a key figure in its expansion into Asia. Her presence in the sport bridges the gap between the Western professional circuit and the burgeoning interest in pickleball across China and other Asian countries. With her bilingual skills and deep understanding of both cultures, she is uniquely equipped to serve as an ambassador, encouraging more athletes to embrace the sport.
Personal Life and Future Endeavors
When she is not competing, Kong enjoys traveling, cooking, working with kids, and learning new languages—she currently speaks four. Her diverse interests and international experiences make her an influential role model, particularly for young athletes aspiring to follow in her footsteps.
With her talent, passion, and dedication, Lingwei Kong is not just a rising star in professional pickleball—she is a trailblazer helping to shape the future of the sport in Asia and beyond.
