Subang – Get Ready, Malaysia!! MILO®, in collaboration with Vertex Esports, is set to launch the nation’s first-ever esports inspired pickleball experience, marking an exciting milestone in its mission to energize and empower youth through sport. Rooted in the belief that sport is a great teacher, this initiative reinforces MILO’s long-standing commitment to youth development by fostering resilience, teamwork, and the tenacity to try something new.
Introducing the Ultimate Pickleball Tournament (UPT) powered by MILO® – a bold fusion of physical sport and esports designed for today’s generation. “Through UPT, we’re not just hosting a tournament; we are creating an environment where youth can explore their potential and cultivate the tenacity to start, try, and grow together within their communities,” said Norkhayati Mohamed Hashini, Business Executive Officer of Ready-to-Drink NESTLÉ Malaysia. Pickleball is rapidly emerging in Malaysia as one of the fastest-growing sports due to its inclusivity and accessibility. It has transformed into more than just a game; it has evolved into a vital space for community development and youth engagement.
A standout feature of UPT is the introduction of Boost Cards powered by MILO®, unique in-game power-ups that add exciting twists and bursts of energy to elevate gameplay. This esports layer mirrors how youth live and play today—with purpose, passion, and a love for the unexpected.
“This collaboration brings together the best of both worlds — competitive sport and immersive play,” said Kelvin Tee Keng Wooi, Chief Marketing Officer of Vertex Esports. “With the Ultimate Pickleball Tournament, we’re reimagining how youth engage with sports by injecting a layer of esports that resonates with today’s generation. It’s not just about winning; it’s about daring to try, evolving, and enjoying the journey. Together with MILO®, we’re creating a platform that reflects youth culture—bold, energetic, and full of discovery.”
Held at 91 Pickleball Club House, Subang Jaya, UPT is more than just a competition; it’s a two-day sportainment festival designed to bring communities together. A total of 304 teams will compete in Men’s, Women’s, and Mixed Doubles in a dual-format structure:
- The Ultimate Tournament follows official USAPA rules, offering a competitive platform grounded in global standards for those looking to deepen their skills.
- On the other hand, the Enhanced Tournament features a twist of esports with Boost Cards powered by MILO®, transforming gameplay with tactical advantages and playful surprises for those eager to explore new experiences.
Open to players with a DUPR (Dynamic Universal Pickleball Rating) of 3.5 and below, UPT is designed to foster grassroots participation and develop emerging talent, providing a competitive yet accessible entry point for new and rising players.
There will be RM36,000 in cash prizes to be won by the players. Beyond that, UPT will deliver an immersive experience with hundreds of giveaways and interactive zones for the public to join us. Festival highlights include:
- Pickleball coaching clinics for beginners
- Mini-games and challenges for casual players and families
- Live matches enhanced with sound and light shows
- Exclusive MILO® booths with sampling and exclusive merchandise
This initiative embodies the spirit of exploration and the thrill of the unknown, encouraging participants to embrace every moment of their journey. Similarly, MILO® has consistently fueled generations of champions and further reinforces its enduring commitment to youth development by encouraging young people to explore new sports, forge social connections, and embrace the spirit of collaboration.
Registrations are now open at https://events.courtsite.my/miloupt2025. Interested participants can visit MILO® Malaysia’s official Facebook and Instagram pages and the official Ultimate Pickleball Tournament Instagram page for more updates.
