KUALA LUMPUR Feb 20, 2025 – Pickleball, the fastest growing sport in the world has quickly gained a massive following in Malaysia, drawing attention from fitness enthusiasts and competitive players alike.
The game, a mix of tennis, badminton, and ping pong, has gained popularity for its easy-to-learn rules and accessibility for players of all ages. As more and more Malaysians take up the paddle, here’s everything you need to know about the sport that’s taking the community by storm.
What Is Pickleball?
Pickleball is played on a rectangular court, similar in size to a doubles badminton court. Players use paddles to hit a perforated plastic ball (similar to a wiffle ball) over a net. The game can be played in singles or doubles, with rules blending tennis and ping pong.
It’s fast-paced and requires quick reflexes, yet it’s less physically demanding than traditional tennis. This makes it more accessible to beginners and older adults who might find other racquet sports too intense for their liking.
Why Is It Gaining Popularity?
There are several factors contributing to the rise of pickle balling among communities, which includes:
- Accessibility – It is easy to learn and does not require advanced skills to get started. Smaller court size allows players to cover their area easily compared to tennis.
- Community Friendly – Pickleball is often played in social settings, which encourages friendly competitions.
- Health Benefits – It serves as an excellent cardiovascular workout, with less demanding physical movements. Improves balance, agility, and hand-to-eye coordination.
- Social Media Buzz – The sensational sport drives its expansion across the country through social media, with clubs and sport centers offering more pickleball courts.
As the sport continues to gain momentum in Malaysia, major events showcasing it’s popularity are introduced. Selangor ASICS Pickleball Open recently gained over 267 players from various backgrounds, eager to compete on the court.
What To Lookout For Pickleball Players
Though the sport is relatively low-impact, it is still important to take precautions. Due to its fast pace, players may experience minor sprains or strains from quick, sudden movements. Always warm up before games, stay hydrated, and use proper footwear to prevent injuries.
Additionally, while pickleball is suitable for most ages, it’s important to take breaks and avoid over-exertion, especially in Malaysia’s hot climate. Players should be mindful of the risk of dehydration or heat-related illnesses, particularly in outdoor settings during the hotter months.
Kuala Lumpur is becoming a hot spot for the openings of pickleball courts, with popular venues such as KL City Pickleball that overviews the Merdeka 118 sky-scrapper, Pickle Park of Petaling Jaya and Pickle Point at Jalan Damansara.
Discussions were also sparked by the emergence of this new trend, highlighting the positive affect it has on younger generations. However, this rise caused a slight tension among court players. Some has expressed their dissatisfaction after certain sports centers announced that they would be transitioning their courts to pickleball courts in response to the growing demand and current market trends, which has affected their ability to accommodate other bookings.
The Future Of Sport
Pickleball is certainly here to stay, and it’s proving to be a fun, engaging sport that brings communities together. Whether you’re looking for an enjoyable way to stay active or you’re considering trying something new, pickleball is the game to watch and play. As more people across Malaysia discover the joy of pickleball, you can expect the sport to continue growing in popularity and influence.
