Gabe Tardio is ready to take his game to Asia this season, driven by both competition and curiosity. The 20 year old currently ranks No. 1 in Men’s Doubles and No. 6 in Mixed Doubles, and he sees Asia as the next important step in his growing pickleball career.
Tardio has followed the rise of pickleball in Asia closely, particularly after seeing friends and fellow professionals compete there last year. Among them was his doubles partner Ben Johns, whose experience left a strong impression.
According to Tardio, what stood out most was the atmosphere. He described the crowds as large, energetic, and deeply invested in the sport, noting that the passion of Asian fans is something he is eager to experience firsthand.
Beyond the excitement of the crowd, Tardio is also focused on the competitive challenge. He acknowledged that playing conditions and styles in Asia can differ from those in the United States, but he welcomes the need to adapt. For Tardio, adjusting to new environments is part of what makes pickleball rewarding.
His decision to partner with Vietnam based paddle brand Facolos reflects that ambition. Facolos is an official paddle partner of PPA Tour Asia, and Tardio sees the collaboration as a natural fit for his goal of competing internationally. He praised the brand for its innovation and believes it aligns well with his desire to grow the sport globally.
With a clear plan and a willingness to embrace new challenges, Tardio is set to make his presence felt in Asia this season. For pickleball fans across the region, his arrival adds another layer of excitement to an already fast growing sport.
.jpg)
