The Philippines is set to make its mark on the international pickleball stage as top-ranked players Leander Lazaro and Sarah Jane Lim-Narvasa lead the national squad at the upcoming Pickleball World Cup in Da Nang, Vietnam.
The prestigious competition is expected to bring together around 4,000 athletes from 80 countries, competing across five categories for a total prize pool of $500,000.
The Philippine Pickleball Federation (PPF), together with Skechers, continues to support the growth of the sport in the country by creating opportunities for Filipino athletes to compete at professional and international levels.
Lazaro will compete in the Men’s Open division alongside former national lawn tennis players Ruben Gonzales and Johnny Arcilla, as well as Nik Isagan and Patrick Mendoza, with Johwee Sam Bernales serving as reserve.
In the Women’s Open division, Lim-Narvasa will be joined by Lauren Mercado, Fatima Amirul, Kelsey Larente, and Medelene Saraza, with Jessica Agra as reserve.
PPF President Shery “Shawy” Cu said the roster was selected based on athletes’ performances in major tournaments and leagues, participation in federation activities, versatility across match formats, and their ability to work effectively with different partners in the competition’s rotating team format.
The Philippine delegation will also compete in the Seniors, Masters, and Juniors divisions, highlighting the growing depth of pickleball talent across different age groups.
Skechers Marketing Manager Camille Coronel expressed the brand’s support for the team, saying Filipino athletes deserve opportunities to compete confidently on the world stage. Skechers Country Manager Suzette Pasustento likewise noted the Philippines’ rapid growth as one of Asia’s emerging pickleball markets.
As Team Philippines heads to Da Nang, the PPF hopes the tournament will further strengthen the country’s presence in international pickleball and inspire more Filipinos to pursue the sport competitively.
