From Island Paradise to the Podium: Team Bali’s Remarkable Journey at PCL Asia Season 2

The echoes of the final dink may have faded in the bustling Mission Hills Mall in Shenzhen, but for Team Bali Indonesia, the impact of the Pickleball Champions League (PCL) Asia Season 2 Grand Finals is only just beginning. Facing off against 28 elite teams from across seven nations, the squad from the "Land of the Gods" delivered a performance that solidified Indonesia's status as a rising powerhouse in Asian pickleball.

Finishing a prestigious fourth overall in a field that featured champions from China, India, and the Philippines, Team Bali's journey was defined by a thrilling "giant-killing" run. Their path to the semifinals was headlined by a stunning 3–2 Dreambreaker victory over the Philippines' Team SO Chill, a match that will go down as one of the tournament's most electric moments.

Behind the collective success of the team are the individual stories of veterans and rising stars who represent the diverse and passionate pickleball community in Bali.

Alit: The Asian Standard-Bearer

A cornerstone of the Indonesian pickleball scene, Alit arrived in Shenzhen with a resume that speaks for itself. A veteran of countless World Pickleball Championship (WPC) events, Alit has become the benchmark for excellence in the region. He currently holds the prestigious No. 1 ranking in Asia for the 50+ category across all disciplines: Singles, Gender Doubles, and Mixed Doubles. His tactical depth and composure were instrumental in guiding the team through the high-pressure environment of the Grand Finals.

Dipa: The Golden Newbie

While Alit represents the established guard, Dipa is the embodiment of the sport’s explosive growth. Despite being a relative newcomer to the game, Dipa made waves earlier this year at WPC Bali 2025, where he secured a Gold Medal in the Men’s Singles 19+ Advanced (4.5) division his first-ever international tournament. Building on that momentum, he proved his versatility at the WPC Matta in Kuching, Malaysia, before bringing his aggressive, high-energy style to the PCL Team Competition in China.

Desy Ratnasari: The Multi-Sport Maestro

A former national tennis standout, Desy Ratnasari has transitioned seamlessly into pickleball, bringing elite athleticism and a refined court sense to the squad. Desy has competed in numerous tournaments across Indonesia, consistently finding herself on the podium. In Shenzhen, she was a vocal leader on and off the court, emphasizing the resilience of the Indonesian spirit. "I never gave up, I fought for my team," she remarked during the tournament, reflecting the grit that helped Bali secure a top-four finish.

Angie Nikita Bong: The High-Level Competitor

Rounding out the squad is Angie Nikita Bong, a player whose dedication to the international circuit has made her a familiar face at WPC events. Competing primarily in the Open and Advanced skill levels, Angie’s experience against top-tier international talent was crucial for Team Bali. Her ability to adapt to different styles of play and her consistency in high-stakes rallies made her a vital asset during the team's deep bracket run.