Pickleball heat set to strike at Kai Tak Arena for the city’s first tournament on Thur

The first Hong Kong Open pickleball tournament, part of the Professional Pickleball Association (PPA)’s Asia Tour, kicks off tomorrow(Aug 21), at Kai Tak Sports Park, running for four days.

The event promises thrilling pickleball action, featuring 104 professional players and 424 amateurs from 25 countries and regions.

Chinese player Long Yufei, fresh off her women's singles victory in Malaysia, will compete in women's singles, doubles, and mixed doubles. 

Expressing excitement about her first competition in Hong Kong, Long wishes to deliver her best performance and secure the championship.

Long noted the differences in court surface, mentioning she is still adjusting with the new competing environment. However, she appreciates the air-conditioned venue compared to Malaysia's outdoor courts.

Meanwhile, Macau’s Marco Leung Ho-tin, participating in three events, views this as a great opportunity to compete in his hometown after transitioning to a full-time pickleball athlete two years ago.

Leung added that Hong Kong's weather and indoor venue help reduce fatigue, making it ideal for competition.