The “PPA Asia 1500, Hang Seng Bank Hong Kong Slam 2026” (the “Hang Seng Bank Hong Kong Slam”) featured the quarterfinals today. Hong Kong’s sole remaining contender, Hong Kit Wong, engaged in an intense three-set Men’s Singles battle against the world No. 5, ultimately falling just short of advancing.
In the Men’s Singles quarterfinals, Wong squared off against Argentina’s Federico Staksrud, the world No. 5. The two had previously met at the Hanoi Open in April, where Wong lost 1–2 in games. Returning to home court, Wong found his rhythm quickly, securing the opening game 11–8. He maintained the pressure in the second game, taking a commandingly early 5–0 lead, but Staksrud staged a ferocious comeback to level the match 9–11. The decisive third game descended into a high-stakes tug-of-war, with Wong earning match point first at 10–9. However, Staksrud demonstrated his elite composure in the clutch moments to turn the tables, leaving Wong to suffer a heartbreak 10–12 defeat and miss out on the semifinals. Following the match, the packed crowd showered Wong with resounding applause for his sensational performance.
Hong Kit Wong remarked: “Thank you so much to the Hong Kong fans in the crowd for their passionate support! I never expected so many people to come out and cheer for us. Without everyone’s cheers and encouragement, I wouldn’t have been able to play at such a high level.”
In other events, top-seeded contenders demonstrated their world-class form to advance smoothly: Men’s Doubles powerhouses Ben Johns and Gabriel Tardio, Women’s Doubles formidable duo Anna Leigh Waters and Anna Bright, as well as Mixed Doubles world No. 1 pair Ben Johns and Anna Leigh Waters, all swept their opponents in straight sets to comfortably book their spots in tomorrow’s (24 October) semifinals.
The venue features a dedicated fan zone, “PICKLETOWN,” offering free admission to the public. Visitors can explore various themed booths selling professional pickleball gear and official event merchandise, with special opportunities to meet their favourite stars during autograph sessions. Whether you are a seasoned player or new to the sport, PICKLETOWN offers something for everyone to enjoy.
Find out more on https://www.ppatour-asia.com/tournament/2026/hong-kong-slam/
