Philippine Pickleball Federation forms strong team for World Cup

A strong and fighting team will represent the country in the 2026 Pickleball World Cup in Da Nang, Vietnam from August 30 to September 6.

Leander Lazaro and Sarah Jane Lim-Narvasa—two of the country’s highest-ranked players—will lead the Philippine squad at the prestigious event, which is expected to draw around 4,000 athletes from 80 countries competing across five categories for a total prize pool of $500,000.

Driven by a shared vision to elevate Philippine pickleball and create more opportunities for Filipino players, the Philippine Pickleball Federation (PPF) and Skechers continue to champion initiatives that give athletes platforms to compete, connect, and grow. 

That commitment continues as Team Philippines prepares to compete at the Pickleball World Cup, reflecting the sport’s growing momentum and PPF’s efforts to create a stronger pathway for Filipino athletes to compete at Pro and International levels.

“We believe that every Filipino athlete deserves the opportunity to dream bigger, compete with confidence, and take their talent to the world stage—that’s why we’re committed to giving athletes the comfort and support they need to go further, and show the world what they’re made of. As Team Philippines takes on the world in Da Nang, Skechers is honored to be part of this historical journey of our Filipino athletes” said Camille Coronel, Skechers Marketing Manager.

Joining Lazaro in the Men’s Open division are former national lawn tennis team members Ruben Gonzales and Johnny Arcilla as well as Nik Isagan and Patrick Mendoza with Johwee Sam Bernales 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 selection process was done by the federation’s Tournaments Committee as well as the Selection Committee composed of a high performance international coach, local coach, and panel of respected players.

The panel based its decision on the athletes’ performance in notable and international tournaments and leagues, and participation in Federation activities including open tryouts.

Cu said players were selected based on their individual performance, versatility across multiple match formats, and ability to partner effectively with other team members, which is very critical in a rotating team format.

“Pickleball has established its strong growth  in the Philippines, and Team Philippines going to Da Nang is a significant show of competitiveness of our athletes,” Cu said.

Sharing this commitment, Skechers Country Manager Suzette Pasustento emphasized the brand’s continued support for initiatives that empower athletes, expand opportunities for players, and nurture a thriving pickleball community—from grassroots participation to national and international competition. “The Philippines is already one of the fastest-growing pickleball markets in Asia, and the world is watching. Soon we will also see major tournaments taking place here in the Philippines. ”

Skechers launched globally performance footwear including  pickleball shoes engineered specifically for the demands of the court.  Skechers Viper Court collection has been the No.1 and best-selling pickleball shoes in the Philippines.

The Philippine delegation will also see action across the Seniors, Masters, and Juniors categories. Rounding up the national roster are Annie Legaspi, Edshel Pagaiguron, Minerva San Jose, and Lilibeth Pulido in the Women’s Seniors division; Angelo Enad, Lucob Chan, Rico del Rosario, and Gilbert Medina in the Men’s Seniors division;

and Conrada Henson, Lea Camarao, Liza Badion, and Leah Aragon in the Women’s Masters division; Jose Allan Avila, Carlos Darren Badion, Clinton Lee and Allan Hermano in the Men’s Masters division.

In the Boys’ Juniors division, representing the country are Mackonner Dy, Matt Daniel Navarro, Alva Bual, and Randy Lee Capoquian while Syesha Bree Rivera, Rain Isabelle Astano, Rhenna May Tavera, and Adreanna Pastor will vie in the Girls’ Juniors division.

“To every Filipino fan and supporter—rally behind this team,” Cu added.

“They are fighting for all of us. And to everyone who believes in what Philippine pickleball can become, this is just the beginning.”