MPPT lands Skechers as inaugural season partner

THE Maharlika Pilipinas Pickleball Tour (MPPT) gained a major boost after teaming up with global sports and lifestyle brand Skechers for its inaugural professional season.

The partnership was formally announced at The Velarias Residences Show Gallery at Bridgetowne in Pasig City, with both sides looking to further strengthen the fast-growing sport and provide Filipino players with more opportunities to compete at a higher level.

Skechers Philippine Country Manager Suzette Pasustento said the company is pleased to be part of the MPPT’s maiden professional tournament.

“That really shows Skechers being active and very participative in leading some of the partnerships in the Philippines for the pickleball sport, and also the partnership between Skechers and Maharlika Pilipinas Pickleball Tour,” Pasustento said.

She added that the partnership goes beyond putting the Skechers name behind the tournament, stressing the company’s commitment to supporting the sport and its players.

“For us at Skechers, this partnership is rooted in a shared purpose that pickleball deserves world-class support and that together we can make that a reality,” she said.

Skechers has also strengthened its presence in pickleball with the development of a performance shoe specifically made for the sport.

“Skechers is the first major global footwear brand to develop a dedicated performance shoe for the pickleball sport,” Pasustento said.

“So that exemplifies how huge and significant this sport is, not just in the Philippines, but all over the world.”

The company is also working with the Philippine Pickleball Federation as it expands its involvement in the sport’s development in the country.

For MPPT Commissioner Mark Espinosa, securing Skechers as a partner is an important step for the new professional tour.

“It’s a great pleasure for MPPT to welcome and celebrate our partnership with Skechers. For us, this partnership is more than just a collaboration between two brands. It’s about sharing the same passion for sports, supporting our athletes and helping grow pickleball in the Philippines,” Espinosa said.

Espinosa thanked Skechers for backing the MPPT and its plans for the local pickleball scene.

“We are truly grateful to Skechers for believing in MPPT and in the future of Philippine pickleball. We look forward to a strong, meaningful partnership and to many more milestones with each other,” he said.

The MPPT will fire off its inaugural season on October 3 and 4 at the PCPH Court in Angeles City, Pampanga.

The second leg is scheduled for October 17 and 18 at the Tagaytay City Velodrome, with the third and fourth legs set for November before the championship finale in December.

With the professional tour set to get underway, MPPT officials hope the partnership will help give Filipino pickleball players more chances to compete, develop their skills and make their mark in the growing sport.

The tie-up also adds to the momentum behind pickleball, which continues to expand its player base and tournament calendar across the country.