News & Stories
May 2, 2025
From April 11 to 19, Việt Nam took center stage in the global pickleball community as international stars touched down for the “Rise with the Flames” Pickleball Tour. What unfolded was a dynamic celebration of sport, culture, and connection, as some of the world’s best players shared the court and the spotlight with Việt Nam’s emerging talent.
A Landmark Moment for Vietnamese Pickleball
The tour marked a major milestone for pickleball in Việt Nam, cementing the country’s growing presence on the global map. Organized by the Vietnam Pickleball Incubator (VPI), in collaboration with Proton Pickleball Vietnam and Pink Tour, the event brought the excitement of professional-level play to Hà Nội, Ninh Bình, Quảng Ninh, and Hồ Chí Minh City.
At the heart of the tour was the star-studded Phoenix Flames team from Major League Pickleball (MLP), featuring standout athletes like Andrei Daescu, Jack Sock, Genie Bouchard, Tyson McGuffin, Jesse Irvine, and Pesa Teoni. Their presence not only thrilled fans but also inspired local players and communities throughout the country.
(Photo Source: https://theconwaybulletin.com/news/usa-pickleball-news/mlp-news/162898/global-pickleball-icons-ignite-viet-nam-with-spectacular-tour/)
Blending Culture and Competition
The tour kicked off in Hà Nội, where players joined the Hà Nội Tourism Gifts Festival—immersing themselves in Vietnamese traditions through folk games, culinary experiences, and cultural performances like the iconic water puppet show. This cultural exchange brought a deeper meaning to the sport’s visit, showcasing how pickleball can bridge communities beyond the court.
In Ninh Bình, the group explored the stunning Tràng An Landscape Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Exhibition matches held amidst limestone mountains and lush rivers made for one of the tour’s most memorable moments—where sport met scenery in spectacular fashion.
Highlights from MLP Day in Hà Nội
April 15 saw the highly anticipated MLP Day at the Đại Kim Complex in Hà Nội. Here, global stars went paddle to paddle with Việt Nam’s top pickleball players in a showcase of talent and teamwork. The Vietnamese side featured former tennis aces Lý Hoàng Nam, Trịnh Linh Giang, and Vinh Hiển, who have recently made the leap into pickleball. They were joined by enthusiastic amateur standouts like Quỳnh Phan, Trang Red, Phong Coca, Jack Wong, Nam Bún, Thắng Bò, and Hoàng Đồng.
Thousands tuned in via FPT Play and social media streams, where the excitement was shared in real time, complete with interactive fan features.
(Photo Source: https://www.instagram.com/p/DIPo09IzJ81/)
Tour Finale in Hồ Chí Minh City
The closing leg of the tour in Hồ Chí Minh City brought the heat, with vibrant events held at D-Joy Pickleball Thủ Thiêm and South Saigon Courts on April 17 and 18. Fans had the chance to watch thrilling exhibition matches and connect directly with the pros through hands-on clinics and casual meet-and-greets.
It was a fitting finale to a week that brought global prestige and unforgettable energy to local courts.
A Vision for Việt Nam’s Pickleball Future
For the Vietnam Pickleball Incubator, this tour was just the beginning. As the country’s first dedicated organization for pickleball development, VPI is laying the foundation for a thriving national ecosystem. Their mission includes supporting grassroots clubs, training new talent, organizing events, and building toward a competitive national team.
The success of the “Rise with the Flames” tour proved that Việt Nam isn’t just a warm and welcoming host—it’s a rising force in the international pickleball movement. With its unique blend of culture, enthusiasm, and athletic potential, the country is poised to become a regional hub for the sport.
