Indonesian padel targets best result at 2026 Asian Games: PB PI

Indonesian padel players aim to achieve their best performance yet at the 2026 Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan, according to officials from the Federation of Padel Sport in Indonesia (PB PI). The federation has set ambitious goals for the upcoming multi-sport event, which marks the first time padel will be included as a medal sport in the Asian Games. This follows confirmation from the Olympic Council of Asia and the International Padel Federation that padel will feature in the Games program. Federation deputy chairman Mochtar Sarman stated during a press conference at the opening of the 2026 Padel Unity Cup tournament that the goal is to perform to the best of their ability. “We will give our best. If you ask about targets, we will give our best,” Sarman said. He emphasized that while the competition will be challenging, the team is determined to exceed previous achievements. Indonesia previously secured a bronze medal at the 2025 FIP Asia Padel Cup in Doha, where the women's team placed third. Sarman expressed hope that they could surpass this result at the Asian Games. Sarman noted that the level of competition will be higher due to the presence of more established padel nations in Asia. “Our opponents will definitely be tough,” he said. He highlighted the difference in experience, noting that many Asian countries have been playing padel for up to eight years, whereas Indonesia's national team has only been active for two to three years. Despite this gap, the team is confident in their progress and readiness for the challenge. In preparation for the Asian Games, Indonesia has sent eight top athletes, under the guidance of coach Ari Moya, to Spain for a training camp that lasted over a month starting on August 8. During this period, the athletes participated in matches and training sessions, including a test match against Italy, to gain competitive experience. “We went there to gain knowledge, learn, compete and earn points so we can be better prepared for the Asian Games,” Sarman explained. The inclusion of padel in the 2026 Asian Games represents a significant milestone for the sport in Southeast Asia. The decision was made following a November 2025 meeting in Kuwait between FIP President Luigi Carraro and OCA Director General Husain Al Musallam. This collaboration paved the way for padel to become part of the official medal sports lineup. Indonesia plans to field two men’s teams and two women’s teams, along with four coaches led by Ari Moya, for the Games' debut. Indonesia has also been entrusted with hosting several key padel tournaments in 2026, including the largest-ever international padel event. These events are expected to provide valuable exposure and opportunities for local players to gain experience and build confidence. As the country prepares for its first appearance in the Asian Games, the focus remains on delivering strong performances and contributing to the growth of padel in the region.