Photo Credits to: World Pickleball Championship
The World Pickleball Championship (WPC) series opened 2026 with a thrilling showcase in Hainan this past January 5–10, as players from across the globe battled across age divisions, skill levels, and disciplines. The six‑day event highlighted the growth of competitive pickleball in Asia, building on the sport’s expansion throughout China and the broader region.
From elite 19+ open divisions to spirited 60+ matchups, the China Masters offered a platform for established stars and rising talents to compete in men’s and women’s singles, doubles, and mixed doubles. With 267 players from 30 countries, the event underscored pickleball’s ability to bring together diverse players through sport and culture.
Photo Credits to: World Pickleball Championship
267 Players, 30 Nations: Global Reach in Every Rally
China fielded the largest contingent with 120 athletes, followed by Hong Kong (28), Thailand (24), Singapore (12), and Malaysia (11). North America and Europe were also well represented, with players arriving from the United States, United Kingdom, Poland, Italy, and beyond - proof of the sport’s deepening global roots.
Notably, the tournament welcomed players from underrepresented markets like Bermuda, Serbia, and Argentina, signaling the WPC’s commitment to accessible, international competition.
19+ Open Divisions: Standouts and Spectacle
The 19+ Open Men’s Singles title went to Hong Kit Wong, who defeated Bako Balint Gergo in a compelling final. Meanwhile, rising talents Harrison Brown and Zong‑Jin Li rounded out the top four. In 19+ Men’s Doubles, the duo of Hong Kit Wong & Louis Laville claimed gold over Xiang Cai & Yaxuan Miao, demonstrating precise teamwork and strategy.
In the 19+ Mixed Doubles Open, Karina Aditya Dwipayani & Hong Kit Wong emerged victorious against Katie Morris & Joshua Bright in a final that electrified spectators with skill and intensity.
Photo Credits to: World Pickleball Championship
Masters Across Ages: 35+, 50+, and 60+ Performances
Across age‑bracketed events, competition remained fierce. In the 35+ Open Men’s Doubles, Siqi Hao & Hui Han brought home the title, besting Worawut Klinruen & Thitiphan Subkla. The level of play in this division showcased how veteran competitors blend experience with athleticism.
In the 50+ Men’s Singles, Minh Le secured top honors, defeating I Gusti Ngurah Alit Putra Hariwibawa in a match that highlighted endurance and tenacity. On the doubles court, I Gusti Ngurah Alit Putra Hariwibawa & Minh Le also clinched the 50+ Men’s Doubles Open, adding to Le’s impressive tournament haul.
The 60+ divisions delivered memorable moments as well. Leng Gang & Yubin Wei took home 60+ Open Men’s Doubles gold, while Ajeet Bhardwaj claimed the 60+ Open Men’s Singles crown, showing that competitive fire burns strong across all ages.
Women’s Competition: Rising Stars and Established Talent
In the women’s bracket, Sahra Dennehy captured the 19+ Open Women’s Singles title over Katie Morris, highlighting her steady consistency throughout the tournament. Doubles action saw Karina Aditya Dwipayani & Kwan Wun Man lift the 19+ Women’s Doubles Open trophy, cementing their status as a formidable pair.
Veteran competitors also shone in the older divisions. Barbara Ka Yen Yuen & Haj Wilcox dominated the 60+ Women’s Doubles Open, while Barbara Ka Yen Yuen continued her strong showing with a 60+ Advanced Women’s Singles win.
Photo Credits to: World Pickleball Championship
Mixed Doubles Thrills and Final Notes
Mixed doubles produced a rich mix of tactical play and dynamic partnerships. In the 35+ Open Mixed Doubles, Marina Sicic & Dan Balldin finished atop the field, while Pini Lee & I Gusti Ngurah Alit Putra Hariwibawa impressed in the 50+ Open category.
These results not only reflect individual excellence but also the increasing depth of international pickleball talent competing on Chinese soil. China’s embrace of the sport - evident in its homegrown talent and event hosting - continues to fuel competitive opportunities for both domestic and visiting players.
Looking Ahead: Pickleball’s Growing Footprint in Asia
As the global pickleball community looks forward to more high‑profile events in 2026, the success of the WPC China Masters in Hainan showcases the sport’s rapid regional growth. Whether for seasoned veterans or up‑and‑coming stars, this tournament provided a vibrant stage for athletic excellence and cross‑border camaraderie in one of Asia’s emerging pickleball hubs.
