Pro Picklers
Mar 3, 2025
Vietnam’s top athlete, Ly Hoang Nam, is making headlines in a new and exciting way—by stepping into the world of pickleball. Having established himself as Vietnam’s premier tennis player, Nam’s transition into pickleball brings a unique level of expertise and athleticism to the sport. His involvement is a testament to pickleball’s increasing popularity and its potential to become a major sport in Asia.
A Grand Entrance into Pickleball
In October 2024, Ly Hoang Nam made his competitive pickleball debut at the PPA Tour Australia - Vietnam Open 2024 in Ba Ria-Vung Tau. The event marked a significant milestone, as one of Vietnam’s most well-known athletes embraced pickleball at a professional level. His transition not only adds legitimacy to the sport but also inspires a new wave of players to take up the paddle.
Pickleball, a game that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis, has been steadily gaining traction in Vietnam. Its accessible nature, fast-paced rallies, and engaging playstyle have attracted players from all backgrounds. With Ly Hoang Nam joining the ranks of professional competitors, pickleball is poised for an even bigger breakthrough in the region.
(Photo Source: https://www.24h.com.vn/the-thao/linh-giang-thang-so-1-pickleball-chau-a-ly-hoang-nam-dung-buoc-o-giai-tien-ty-c101a1611692.html)
Leveraging a Tennis Background for Pickleball Success
Ly Hoang Nam’s years of success in tennis have given him a strong foundation for excelling in pickleball. As a former Vietnamese national tennis champion and SEA Games gold medalist, Nam’s footwork, strategic court awareness, and powerful shot-making have translated seamlessly onto the pickleball court. His ability to anticipate opponents’ moves, combined with his agility and quick reflexes, makes him a formidable competitor in this new sport.
The transition from tennis to pickleball is not uncommon, as many former tennis players find the sport’s similar mechanics appealing. The key difference, however, lies in the speed of the game, the use of a paddle instead of a racket, and the strategic soft game that pickleball requires. Nam’s ability to adapt to these nuances speaks volumes about his versatility as an athlete.
The Rising Popularity of Pickleball in Asia
Asia has emerged as a major hub for pickleball’s growth, with increasing participation across multiple countries. The sport’s appeal lies in its inclusive nature—it can be enjoyed by players of all ages and skill levels, making it one of the most community-driven sports today. Tournaments such as the PPA Tour Australia - Vietnam Open provide a platform for top athletes and new players to showcase their talents, further boosting the sport’s reputation.
Ly Hoang Nam’s involvement shines a spotlight on Vietnam’s growing pickleball scene. As more players take an interest and the community expands, the demand for better facilities, coaching, and competitive opportunities is rising. His presence in major events sets the stage for a new era of professional pickleball in Vietnam and beyond.
(Photo Source: https://kenh14.vn/trinh-linh-giang-ly-hoang-nam-len-ngoi-vo-dich-giai-pickleball-day-kich-tinh-luc-2-gio-sang-215250224135913856.chn)
A Bright Future for Pickleball
With Ly Hoang Nam leading the charge, pickleball in Vietnam is set to flourish. His transition demonstrates how adaptable and exciting the sport is, offering both recreational and professional opportunities. The sport’s growth in Asia suggests that we may soon see more high-level athletes making the switch and pushing the competitive boundaries of pickleball.
As pickleball gains momentum, Vietnam has the chance to become a regional leader in the sport. With the right support, infrastructure, and enthusiasm from players and fans alike, the future looks incredibly bright. And with Ly Hoang Nam proving that pickleball is not just a hobby but a serious pursuit, there’s no telling how far the sport can go in the coming years.
Pickleball is here to stay, and with stars like Ly Hoang Nam embracing it, the journey is just getting started!
