The United States may still be the heartbeat of pickleball, and its popularity remains strong in Canada. But the sport is rapidly taking off across the globe—and one unexpected country is making a name for itself as Asia’s newest pickleball powerhouse.
That country? Malaysia.
According to the latest data from the Dynamic Universal Pickleball Rating (DUPR) system, Malaysia now ranks third worldwide in DUPR users—right behind only the US and Canada. That makes Malaysia the top country for pickleball outside of North America, and it’s a stat that’s hard to ignore.
Even more impressively, Kuala Lumpur is second only to Austin, Texas, in the number of DUPR users by city. Clearly, the pickleball wave isn’t just brushing up against Malaysia’s shores—it’s rolling in fast.
A Thriving Tournament Scene and Rapid Infrastructure Growth
Malaysia’s pickleball momentum is backed by a growing lineup of tournaments. The PCCC YES Grand Pickleball Masters Malaysia is set for April and May 2025. Later in May, the Felet Open 2025 will draw top players, followed by the Malaysia Pickleball Grandslam in October. Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, there’s a competition waiting.
In terms of infrastructure, Malaysia is quickly catching up. The new Pickleball Stadium at Kenanga Wholesale City in Kuala Lumpur is a major milestone, and with over 300 registered DUPR clubs across the country, players now have more opportunities than ever to play, improve, and connect.
Sarawak Steps Up
The state of Sarawak is also emerging as a pickleball hub, thanks to the efforts of the Sarawak Pickleball Association and strong support from the government. Deputy Minister Datuk Snowdan Lawan has been instrumental in pushing the sport forward in the region.
Pickleball's Future in Malaysia Looks Bright
While badminton still reigns supreme in Malaysia, pickleball is quickly catching the public’s attention. With its friendly community atmosphere, simple learning curve, and exciting gameplay, it’s no wonder the sport is heating up fast.
Will pickleball reach the same level of popularity as badminton in Malaysia? Only time will tell. But for now, it’s safe to say: Pickleball is on fire in Malaysia—and the heat isn’t dying down anytime soon.
