In 2025, husband-and-wife duo Zhang Lei and Wang Nuo set out on an ambitious journey: building pickleball from a grassroots hobby into a nationwide phenomenon in the Chinese mainland. Starting with a single rack of nets in a schoolyard, they’ve spent months refining coaching methods, rallying local communities, and hosting pop-up tournaments.
Recently, their efforts culminated in the inaugural pickleball China Open this summer. From packed school courts to a championship draw at a major sports arena, the sport’s rapid ascent is shaping a new chapter in the country’s booming sports culture.
This month, former Belgian premier Yves Leterme arrived in the Chinese mainland to witness this transformation firsthand. He joined Zhang and Wang at community clinics, spoke with young players, and cheered on finalists at the China Open, offering a rare international lens on how passion and perseverance can spark a nationwide movement.
“It’s inspiring to see how a simple idea can galvanize communities,” Leterme said during a visit to a Beijing school. “Pickleball bridges generations, combines strategic play with physical agility, and fosters global connections.”
As 2025 draws to a close, Zhang and Wang are already mapping out next year’s expansion: deeper school partnerships, urban leagues, and digital coaching platforms. Their journey shows that with vision and grit, even the most niche sport can find its place on the world stage.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
