From Badminton Smashes to Pickleball Podiums: Melvin Cheong Partners with Kasaca Sports

The rise of pickleball in Malaysia has seen athletes from across the racquet sports world make the switch but few transitions have been as impactful as that of Melvin Cheong. Once a national badminton player representing Malaysia, Cheong has now carved a new identity on the pickleball court, quickly establishing himself as one of the country’s most exciting competitors.

Now, his journey enters a new chapter.

On 1 March 2026, Kasaca Sports officially announced Cheong as its newest brand ambassador, a partnership that signals the brand’s growing ambition within Malaysia’s rapidly expanding pickleball ecosystem.

The collaboration brings together an athlete with elite racquet sport pedigree and a performance-driven brand committed to supporting the next generation of players.

A Transition That Turned Heads

Melvin Cheong’s background in high-performance badminton gave him a unique edge when he stepped onto the pickleball court. The footwork, reflexes, and court intelligence developed during his years competing at the national level translated seamlessly into the fast-paced dynamics of the sport.

The results came quickly.

Cheong has surged through the competitive ranks and currently holds an impressive 4.5 DUPR rating, positioning him among Malaysia’s top-tier competitive players. His aggressive net play, sharp court coverage, and strategic shot selection have made him a formidable presence in regional tournaments.

But beyond personal accolades, Cheong has shown a clear vision: to help grow the sport he now calls home.

Building the Next Generation Through MVP Pickleball Academy

While many players focus solely on competition, Cheong has expanded his impact beyond the tournament stage.

He is the founder of MVP Pickleball Academy, where he dedicates time to coaching and mentoring aspiring players. Through structured training programs and grassroots initiatives, the academy aims to develop both recreational enthusiasts and competitive athletes.

For Cheong, the academy represents something larger than training sessions.

It’s about cultivating a stronger pickleball community in Malaysia one where new players have access to guidance, structured development pathways, and opportunities to compete.

International Stage Breakthrough at APP Kuala Lumpur Open

Cheong’s competitive momentum was recently showcased on the international stage at the APP Kuala Lumpur Open 2026.

Held at PLAYA Racquet Club, the tournament drew regional talent and rising stars from across Asia. Competing in the Men’s Singles category, Cheong delivered a standout performance throughout the tournament bracket.

His run to the finals was marked by relentless rallies, tactical patience, and the composure expected from an athlete with national-level experience.

By the end of the tournament, Cheong secured 1st Runner-Up, further cementing his position as one of Malaysia’s emerging pickleball contenders.

Why Kasaca Sports Chose Melvin Cheong

For Kasaca Sports, the partnership represents more than brand visibility, it reflects alignment in values.

A spokesperson from the company shared their excitement about the collaboration:

“We are thrilled to have Melvin join the Kasaca family. His background in high-performance athletics, combined with his current success in pickleball and his entrepreneurial spirit with the MVP Academy, makes him the perfect representative for our brand. We look forward to working together to make Kasaca brighter and more successful.”

The partnership positions Cheong not only as an athlete ambassador but also as a role model for players transitioning into pickleball from other racquet sports.

What This Means for Malaysia’s Pickleball Scene

As pickleball continues its explosive growth across Asia, Malaysia is quickly becoming a hub for emerging talent and new infrastructure.

Collaborations like this highlight a broader trend in the sport’s development:

• Elite athletes transitioning from badminton and tennis
• Brands investing in regional ambassadors
• Grassroots academies nurturing future competitors

The partnership between Kasaca Sports and Melvin Cheong sits at the intersection of all three blending performance, community development, and brand innovation.

For players watching the sport evolve locally, it’s another signal that Malaysian pickleball is entering a new era.

And with ambassadors like Cheong leading the charge, the future of the game looks increasingly competitive and exciting.