The Association of Pickleball Players (APP) announced a new partnership with Wika Sports, naming the company an Official Premium Paddle Partner of the APP Tour for the 2026 season.
The agreement, unveiled as part of the tour’s international growth strategy, will see Wika integrated into select APP Tour events through marketing campaigns, on-site activations and product demonstrations. The collaboration is designed to provide players and spectators with direct access to Wika’s range of paddles at tournament venues.
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The move highlights Southeast Asia – particularly Vietnam – as one of the fastest-growing regions for pickleball. The sport has seen a surge in grassroots participation there, supported by emerging local talent and domestic brands investing heavily in its development.
As part of the partnership, Wika’s premium paddle lineup will be showcased at multiple tour stops throughout 2026. The equipment includes models used by international player Quang Duong, with opportunities for fans and players to test the gear through experiential activations at events.
APP Chief Revenue Officer Ryan McSpadden said the collaboration aligns with the tour’s broader expansion plans.
“Vietnam has built a strong and passionate pickleball community, and Wika’s commitment to the sport makes them a natural partner for the APP Tour,” he said.
For Wika, the deal represents both global exposure and regional pride. Marketing Director Bich Nhuan Dang emphasized the brand’s origins and ambitions.
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“As a brand born in Vietnam, we are proud to represent the energy and growth of pickleball in our region while connecting with players and communities around the world,” she said. “Through this partnership, we hope to support the sport’s development, work alongside leading athletes like Quang Duong and continue delivering high-performance equipment to players at every level.”
The agreement also ties into the wider efforts of the Global Pickleball Alliance, which aims to align stakeholders, establish a unified competition calendar and accelerate the sport’s global growth.
