The Future Of Pickleball In Ho Chi Minh City

What Is Pickleball?

Pickleball, a fusion of tennis, badminton, and table tennis, has been steadily gaining popularity worldwide. Ho Chi Minh City is no exception, with recent events such as the JOOLA 2025 Pickleball Legends Tour drawing attention to the sport. The event showcased the growing enthusiasm for pickleball in Vietnam and its expansion in the city.

Pickleball is played on a court similar in size to a badminton court, using a paddle and a perforated plastic ball. The game is easy to learn, making it appealing to beginners while still offering strategic depth for more experienced players. With its social and accessible nature, the sport has been embraced by people of all ages.

Why should you start Pickleball?

Pickleball is an ideal sport for older adults or those who are less fit. The smaller court size means less running compared to tennis, and the lightweight paddle and slower ball make it gentler on the joints.

It offers a low-impact way to stay active and improve coordination. Pickleball is a great sport for anyone looking to ease into regular physical activity without feeling overwhelmed.

Getting Started

Starting pickleball is simple and inexpensive. All you need is:

• A beginner paddle (around VND 520k- VND 1.5M)
• Court shoes for support and safety.

Three key rules to know:

• Underhand Serve: Always serve underhand and diagonally across the court.
• Double Bounce Rule: Let the ball bounce once on each side before volley.
• Scoring: Games are played to 11 points, and you must win by 2.
  
  

  Where To Play Pickleball In Ho Chi Minh City

  If you’re keen to get involved, here are the top spots to begin at:

  • 002 Pickleball Club (Thao Dien, District 2) – A favourite among expats and locals alike, this open-air venue offers shaded courts, beginner-friendly sessions, and weekend mixers where new players can meet seasoned regulars.

  • Bang Bang Pickleball (District 2) – With eight dedicated courts, it’s known for its smooth surfaces, rental gear, and casual drop-in games almost daily. It’s a great place for improving your game and connecting with the community.

The Future Of Pickleball In Ho Chi Minh City

With increasing interest and more venues offering dedicated courts, pickleball is set to become a staple of Ho Chi Minh City's sporting scene. Whether you're looking for a fun way to stay active or keen to compete, the city’s growing pickleball community provides plenty of opportunities to get involved.