Two Malaysian Pickleballers Join UPA Asia Trailblazers 2025: Jimmy & Mia
Andrew LeeThe United Pickleball Association (UPA) Asia has proudly announced the inaugural Trailblazers Class of 2025, selecting 12 exceptional athletes from a pool of over 100 applicants across the region on the road to pro.
Representing Malaysia, Jimmy Liong and Mia Athilla are among those selected, a proud moment for the local pickleball community.
This is more than just a training opportunity - it’s a chance to build lasting international friendships, represent their home countries with pride, and bring back invaluable experience to uplift their local pickleball scenes. Every drill, match, and challenge they face abroad will shape them into stronger athletes and ambassadors for the sport.
This groundbreaking program aims to elevate Asian pickleball talent by providing a comprehensive three-month immersion in the United States.
Image via Instagram
The players will receive expert coaching, media training, and opportunities to compete on the Professional Pickleball Association (PPA) Tour.
Upon successful completion, these athletes will earn a UPA Asia Touring Contract for 2025–2026, ensuring their participation in all PPA Tour and Major League Pickleball (MLP) Asia events.
Image via Instagram
Jimmy Liong & Mia Athilla Selected for The UPA Trailblazer Program
As these athletes prepare to compete on the world stage, their journey will not only test their skills but also serve as an inspiration for aspiring players across Asia.
Pickle361 is keeping a close eye on the action, curating social media profiles of the Trailblazers and reaching out for exclusive interviews during or after their U.S. journey.
We encourage fans and fellow players to follow their journey, cheer them on, and celebrate their milestones. These Trailblazers aren’t just chasing medals - they’re paving the way for the next generation of pickleball talent in Asia.
Let’s rally behind them and make sure their voices and victories are heard across the globe.
Meet the uprising 6 females and 6 males Players of Trailblazers Class 2025:
- Mia Athilla (Female, Malaysia) - @mia.azizul
- Jimmy Liong (Male, Malaysia) - @jimmyliongkailong
- Ryan Ng (Male, Singapore) - @ryan__ngg
- Mayu Ito (Female, Japan) - @mayu.o.ito
- Kim Eunggwon (Male, South Korea) - @eunggwon_pb
- Andy Hsieh Chen-an (Male, Taiwan) - @andyhsieh.pb
- Marco Leung (Male, Macau) - @pickleandmarco
- Yufei Long (Female, China) - @yufei_long
- Liu Longsheng (Male, China) - N/A
- Ken Tam (Female, Vietnam) - TikTok: @kenke_ken22
- Sophia Tran (Female, Vietnam) - @sophiapickleball
- Jamie Wei (Female, Taiwan) - @jamieweiiii_pb
The 2025 Trailblazers will commence their competition schedule at the Baton Rouge PPA Challenger from 4-6 April 2025.
This initiative marks a significant step in raising the profile of pickleball talent in Asia and establishing the region as a growing force in the global pickleball landscape.
