Ben Johns Headlines PPA Tour Asia: Malaysia Cup 2025 to Break Records
Andrew LeePickleball history will be made in Malaysia this September as the Professional Pickleball Association (PPA) Tour Asia launches its first-ever Malaysia Cup 2025 at 9Pickle Setia Alam and the Setia City Convention Centre from 24 - 28 September 2025.
Headlining the event is none other than Ben Johns, the world’s No. 1 ranked pickleball player, marking his debut appearance in Asia. Widely regarded as the greatest of all time (GOAT) with over 150 career titles on the PPA Tour, Johns is set to bring his dominance and flair to Southeast Asia’s most ambitious pickleball event yet.
“I’m super excited to be coming to the PPA Tour event in Malaysia this September. It’s my first time here, and I can’t wait to meet the Malaysian pickleball community,” said Johns.
A Blockbuster Lineup
Ben Johns won’t be alone. The PPA Tour Asia Malaysia Cup will showcase a roster of elite international stars, including:
- Ben Johns – @benjohns_pb - Men’s Singles World No. 1
- Federico Staksrud – @federico_staksrud
- Anna Bright – @annabright.pb - Women’s Doubles powerhouse
- Tyson McGuffin – @tysonmcguffin - Fan favorite and PPA veteran
- Tyra “Hurricane” Black – @hurricanetblack_
- Christian Alshon (Tweener King) – @tweenerking
- Zane Navratil – @zanenavratilpicklebal - Pickle361’s favourite podcaster
- Zoey Chao Yi Wang – @chao9159
- Kaitlyn Christian – @kk.christian
- Alix Truong – @alixtruong
Together, this lineup promises to deliver one of the most competitive pickleball showdowns Asia has ever seen.
Record Prize Purse & Amateur Play
With a record-breaking USD 150,000+ prize pool, the Malaysia Cup sets a new benchmark for pickleball in Asia. The stakes have never been higher, and the event is expected to draw 600 - 800 amateur competitors across multiple divisions, providing a rare chance for local players to share the stage with the best in the world.
Amateur play will feature alongside pro divisions, with medals, bragging rights, and a chance to experience the thrill of international tournament conditions.
Fan Experience
The Malaysia Cup goes beyond pickleball matches. Spectators can look forward to a full festival experience, featuring:
- Malaysian-inspired bazaar with food and culture
- Interactive sponsor activations and games for all ages
- Limited-edition merchandise exclusive to the event
- Player meet-and-greets with the stars of the PPA Tour
Astro, the official broadcast partner, will bring the action live to households across Malaysia, ensuring the tournament reaches fans nationwide.
Sponsors Backing the Growth
The event is supported by a strong lineup of sponsors across industries:
- Platinum Sponsor: Millennium Welt Sdn Bhd
- Gold Sponsors: SP Setia Berhad, Hundred, Bulan Bintang Clothing
- Silver Sponsors: Top Glove, Plaza Premium Group, SugarBomb Worldwide, Ogawa Malaysia
- Bronze Sponsors: Somersby, Courtyard by Marriott Setia Alam
Their commitment underscores pickleball’s rapid ascent as a sport of the future in Malaysia and Asia.
Double the Action: Malaysia & Vietnam
The Malaysia Cup is just the first stop. The PPA Tour Asia Vietnam Cup will follow immediately from 30 September - 4 October 2025 at Tien Son Sports Arena and Tuyen Son Sports Complex in Da Nang.
With another USD 150,000 prize pool, Asia is set to host two back-to-back weeks of world-class pickleball action.
Kimberly Koh, Managing Director of UPA Asia, emphasized the importance of the moment:
“We’re excited to bring the inaugural PPA Tour Asia Cups to Malaysia and Vietnam. By attracting the world’s best athletes and showcasing regional talent, we are building a stronger future for pickleball in Asia.”
Event Details
- Dates: 24 - 28 September 2025
- Venues: 9Pickle Setia Alam & Setia City Convention Centre
- Prize Pool: USD 150,000+
- Registration: Starts now
With global stars, record-breaking stakes, and a festival atmosphere, the PPA Tour Asia Series - it’s the moment pickleball officially arrives on the Asian world stage.
