The Philippine Pickleball Federation (PPF) highlighted its partnership with Senator Christopher “Bong” Go as the national pickleball squad competes in the 2026 Pickleball World Cup in Da Nang, Vietnam.

In a social media post, the federation recognized Go as a supporting partner of the national contingent that is currently competing against some of the world’s top pickleball players.

“Thank you very much for supporting Team Philippines, Senator Bong Go,” the PPF said in its social media post, rallying behind the national delegation under the message, “One Team, One Nation, One Goal,” the federation headed by Shery Ann Cu said.

Thirty-eight Filipino athletes are competing in the biggest and most prestigious pickleball event in the world across the Open, Seniors, Masters, Juniors and Kids divisions, which runs from 30 August to 6 September.

“I congratulate and thank the Philippine Pickleball Federation for your continuous support of our athletes and for strengthening pickleball in the country,” Go said.

The partnership comes as pickleball continues to build a sizable following in the Philippines alongside the wider resurgence of racket sports, a trend Go has previously linked in part to the international success of Filipino tennis star Alex Eala.

During his co-sponsorship speech honoring Eala’s latest achievement on 5 August, Go said her success was helping create renewed enthusiasm for sports beyond tennis.

“We can say that her achievements became the key to the resurgence of racket sports in the country,” Go said, citing the growing popularity of pickleball, padel, badminton, and other racket sports as among the activities that could benefit from the excitement generated by Eala’s achievements.

For Go, the crossover is important. High-profile Filipino athletes can attract new audiences to a sport, while growing communities around activities such as pickleball can create more opportunities for ordinary Filipinos to participate, stay active, and eventually develop competitive athletes.

Pickleball has emerged as a particularly visible part of that growth.

The sport has expanded through clubs, recreational groups, commercial courts, local tournaments, and competitive circuits, drawing players from different age groups and athletic backgrounds. Its relatively accessible format has also allowed former athletes from other racket sports to transition into competitive pickleball.