Padel Pilipinas showcased its world-class talent on the international stage as national athletes LA Cañizares and Tao Yee Tan captured the Pro Mix Championship at the Asia Pacific Padel Tour (APPT) Kuala Lumpur Open, held at the Ascaro Social & Padel Club.

Representing Padel Pilipinas, the duo delivered a stellar performance, overcoming Russia’s Irina Chernaya and Australia’s Tim Brown—five-time Pro Mix champions on the Asia Pacific Padel Tour—in a thrilling three-set battle, 7-5, 5-7, 6-4.

Following the match, LA Cañizares shared, “It feels amazing to win on this stage. We’ve been training hard for moments like this, and we’re grateful to bring this home for Padel Pilipinas and the Philippines.” Tao Yee Tan added, “This victory is for everyone who believes in Padel Pilipinas and supports padel back home. We hope this inspires more Filipinos to join the sport we love.”

Tan further displayed her resilience in the Pro Female Finals, teaming up with Mariam Yasmin Garsin to challenge Japan’s Kotomi Ozawa and Spain’s Elisabeth Nogueras. After a tough first set, the Padel Pilipinas representatives fought back valiantly, saving five match points and winning all the golden points before narrowly falling, 6-0, 7-6 (2-7).

All members of Team Padel Pilipinas had a strong showing, reaching at least the quarterfinals in their respective categories. LA Cañizares, partnering with Qoqo Allian, advanced to the Pro Male Quarterfinals, while Princess Jean Naquila and Jed Vallie Rayne Aquino also reached the quarterfinals in the Pro Female division.

Senator Pia S. Cayetano, founder of Padel Pilipinas, expressed her pride: “We are incredibly proud of LA and Taoyee for bringing home the championship and showcasing the world-class talent of Padel Pilipinas. To Taoyee and Yam for their impressive finals finish, and to the entire team for reaching the quarterfinals—your dedication and passion continue to inspire. Mabuhay kayo!”

The APPT Kuala Lumpur Open, held from April 25 to 27, gathered top padel athletes from across Asia and beyond. The participation of Padel Pilipinas further highlighted the Philippines’ rising presence in the international padel scene and the growing appeal of padel across Asia.