28/09/2025

ON SUNDAY September 28, 2025 theSunday Special VII

U NLIKE tennis, pickleball is played on a smaller court using a solid paddle and a perforated plastic ball. This makes the sport more acces sible and engaging for beginners. What’s driving its popularity among the younger crowd is the blend of athleticism with a touch of understated elegance, a sport that feels both social and stylish. As admiration for pickleball continues to grow, so does the demand for courts WKDW R̆ HU IDLU SULFLQJ DQG HOHYDWHG DPH nities. Here’s where to play pickleball around Klang Valley to make the most of your game time. The game is simple. Played in doubles or singles, players use a paddle to hit a plastic ball over a net, aiming to score points when the opponent misses. The serve is underhand, the rallies are quick, and there’s a no-volley zone near the net (known as the “kitchen”) that adds a tactical twist. First to 11 points wins, but you must lead by two. Pickle Depot Located in the upscale lifestyle hub of Sentul Depot, Pickle Depot is a chic new venue boasting 11 tournament-grade pickleball courts, an exhibition court and four world-class padel courts for you to perfect your dink. The space comes complete with thoughtfully designed amenities from showers and a mezzanine lounge to a co-working area and a pastry bar. Whether you’re planning a weekend match or a larger-scale tournament with friends or colleagues, this is the go-to spot. With sleek interiors and top-tier facilities, it’s where sport meets style. PickleDepot @ Sentul Depot, Jalan Strachan, Sentul West, 51100 Kuala Lumpur.

Let’s get pickled

With the rise of Malaysia’s pickleball scene, here’s where to play in style around Klang Valley

BY AQILAH NAJWA JAMALUDDIN

Playa Racquet Club If you prefer a laid-back vibe and a welcoming atmosphere, Playa Racquet Club is the place to be. Perched on the rooftop of The Terraces at TREC KL, this ERXWLTXH VW\OH YHQXH R̆ HUV RQH FRYHUHG court known as the PLAYA Court, perfect for those who value a bit more privacy and comfort while playing. For a more open-air experience, there are also three standard uncovered courts available to book. Beginners are welcome too, with personal training sessions on R̆ HU IRU WKRVH NHHQ WR OHDUQ WKH VSRUW LQ more detail. And once the game winds down, you can unwind with a drink or snack at their in-house Sip & Eat corner, the perfect post-match hangout. PLAYA Racquet Club @ TREC KL, 438, Jalan Tun Razak, KL City Centre, 50400 Kuala Lumpur.

Hyprground For a court experience that’s as photogenic as it is functional, Hyprground is the name to know. Designed with a strong sense of style and community in mind, this ERXWLTXH YHQXH R̆ HUV PRUH WKDQ MXVW D place to play. From the moment you walk in, the striking court interiors are a sight to see. Think bold lines, clean design and an energy that’s made for both movement and moments. Each court is spacious enough to com IRUWDEO\ ¿W WKUHH WR IRXU SOD\HUV DOORZLQJ for relaxed games or more competitive rallies. Whether you’re opting for the VIP Lounge Court or joining in on the community courts, Hyprground caters WR DOO OHYHOV IURP ¿UVW WLPHUV WR VHDVRQHG regulars. Wisma Tan Kok Cheng, Lot 116, Jalan Professor Khoo Kay Kim, 46300, Petaling Jaya.

Grand Rally Pickleball P LFNOHEDOO ZLWK D YLHZ" 6D\ OHVV *UDQG 5DOO\ 3LFNOHEDOO LQ 6KDK $ODP UHGH¿QHV WKH meaning of a “game with a view.” Perched on a rooftop, this premier venue features 17 tournament-sized courts, including a Grand VIP Court, VIP Courts and Lounge Courts; all set against a breathtaking skyline. With its thoughtfully designed interiors and scenic backdrop, you’ll hardly feel like you’re in a competitive match. Instead, you’re free to play at your own pace, soaking in the atmosphere. Need a breather? Head to the lounge or the pro shop for a quick refresh, just enough to recharge before your next rally Rooftop (Level 5, T7/T, Pusat Komersial A, Jalan Plumbum R7/R, Seksyen 7, 40000 Shah Alam.

Pickle Park Looking for a sport that blends the social scene with a dash of socialite flair? At The Lawn by Pickle Park, pickleball takes centre stage, but the experience goes far beyond the court. With its own alfresco bar, it’s the kind of place where players and visitors alike can mingle after work or wind down post-match with cocktails DQG FXUDWHG ¿QJHU IRRG It’s not just about playing, it’s about connecting. Booking a court is seamless via their dedicated app, where you can select your group size and even opt into friendly matches with other players. It’s an easy, elegant way to stay active and social, all in one go. 17, Jalan Professor Khoo Kay Kim, Pjs 13, 46100 Petaling Jaya, Selangor.