Finals in Focus: A Filipino Triumph
At the Ramsports Pickleball Stadium in Shenzhen (August 9–10, 2025), the first-ever Pickleball Champions League (PCL) Asia Finals delivered two days of fast-paced, high-energy play. Amid fierce competition from seven regions across Asia, Team Philippines – Dink & Drink emerged victorious with a commanding 3–0 win over Vietnam in the championship match, earning PCL Asia’s inaugural title.
The Winning Line-up: Who Are They?
Facebook and Instagram posts from the event organizer unveiled the champions by name:
- Ken Unique De La Cruz
- Nik Isagan
- Fatima Amirul
- Medelene (“Meds”) Saraza
- Coach: Kim Saraza
These athletes, together with their coach, were celebrated in social media tributes across platforms, highlighting both their skill and camaraderie.
On the Court & Behind the Scenes
The championship was more than just a victory—it showcased the rising standard of amateur pickleball across Asia. As noted in regional media, the final displayed tactical precision and composure, with the Philippines capitalizing on strategic adjustments and cool under pressure to seal their win.
Dramatic matches also set the stage in the semis, as Vietnam bested Guangzhou, while the Philippines edged out Hong Kong in a tense face-off—highlighting Dink & Drink’s clutch performance under pressure.
Cultural Reflections from the Team
For many, including Medelene Ramos-Saraza, Shenzhen was more than just a tournament—it was a cultural milestone. She reflected on the experience fondly:
“It’s my first time in Shenzhen, and my team is having so much fun. The food is great, the people are kind, and the facility is really good. We’re just happy to be here and excited to play our best.”
These personal insights add warmth to their victory, reminding readers of the human stories behind the medals.
Why Dink & Drink’s Win Matters
- First Champions: They are the very first team to lift the PCL Asia trophy—a title lighted with significance for the region’s pickleball future.
- Inspiration for Grassroots: Their success underscores how local clubs can ascend rapidly on an emerging international stage.
- Regional Growth: The passion and performance of Dink & Drink may inspire more clubs across Asia to train harder and dream bigger.
Steve Kuhn, founder of PCL, captured this momentum well:
“What’s amazing about PCL Asia is that it’s for amateurs—for people who truly love this sport. We want these players to have a great time, share their stories, and inspire millions across Asia to try pickleball and fall in love with it.”
Looking Forward
With Season 1 complete, all eyes now turn to the horizon—can Dink & Drink defend their crown? As PCL Asia expands into more countries and deeper community ties, the Philippines’ champion team may well lead this exciting next chapter.
