Hanoi – Vietnam’s top tennis player, Ly Hoang Nam, officially bid farewell to his tennis career today, embracing pickleball as his new arena of passion during the “Reset To Shine” event hosted by Vietnamese sports brand Kamito in Hanoi.
Named Kamito’s brand ambassador and unveiling the cutting-edge Kamito Alpha pickleball paddle, Nam’s transition marks a pivotal moment for the sport’s growth in Vietnam. The 28-year-old, still the highest-ranked Vietnamese male on the ATP at 621, admitted that pickleball has reignited his love for sports after over two decades in tennis.
The event celebrated Nam’s remarkable journey and Kamito’s commitment to advancing pickleball in Vietnam. After dominating tennis with accolades like the 2019 SEA Games gold and a career-high ATP ranking of 231, Nam now seeks fresh challenges. “Pickleball has brought back my fire for sports,” he shared candidly. “After more than 20 years in tennis, this is an emotional shift, but it’s time to rediscover inspiration. Pickleball isn’t just a new game—it’s a battlefield of speed, strategy, and spirit, and with Kamito Alpha, I’m ready to conquer it.”
Nam’s pivot comes at a time when Vietnamese tennis struggles to find a successor of his caliber, as noted by experts. In 2024, he remained Vietnam’s flagbearer in ITF pro tournaments, but at 28, he chose to chase a new dream. His early pickleball success—winning titles like the 2025 National Pickleball Championship, VPO Hanoi, King Cup Hai Duong, and SS Arena Vung Tau—proves his adaptability. The Kamito Alpha, a paddle blending modern tech with insights from elite players, has been his trusted ally, helping him assert dominance on the court.
Kamito’s partnership with Nam signals big ambitions. “When a champion like Nam takes on a new challenge, it’s not just a change—it’s a statement,” a company spokesperson said. “We’re here to fuel that journey and bring pickleball to every corner of Vietnam.” The sport, a hybrid of tennis, badminton, and table tennis, is surging in popularity for its accessibility and excitement. Nam’s involvement aims to inspire a new generation, blending his competitive legacy with a mission to grow the community.
Reflecting on his tennis past, Nam expressed gratitude and resolve. “Tennis gave me everything—discipline, victories, and identity. Now, I’m writing a new chapter with pickleball. It’s about pushing limits and finding joy again.” His emotional farewell resonated with fans, who packed the event to cheer his next step. With Kamito, he plans clinics, tournaments, and outreach to make pickleball a household name.
As Vietnam’s tennis scene searches for its next star, Ly Hoang Nam’s bold move could redefine sports culture here. His debut match with the Kamito Alpha tomorrow, alongside a showcase of its sleek design, promises to kick off this era with flair. For Nam, it’s not just a new sport—it’s a new legacy in the making.
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