5.0 Elites Shine at WPC Masters as Day 2 Unfolds in Hainan

What's the Score?

The World Pickleball Championship (WPC) Masters in Hainan, China, continued its high-octane action on January 6, 2026. Day 2 was defined by clinical performances in the elite 5.0 brackets, where seasoned veterans and rising stars claimed gold across multiple age divisions. From the Women's 19+ to the Men's 50+, the results highlighted the deepening talent pool in the Asian region.

Hit it deeper!

The spotlight on Day 2 was firmly fixed on the 5.0 skill level categories, often considered the gateway to professional play. In the Women's Singles 19+ 5.0 division, Sarah Dennehy emerged as the champion, securing the gold medal. She was flanked on the podium by silver medalist Katie Morris and bronze winner Lam Ying Suet, marking a hard-fought battle among the top female competitors.

The Men's 19+ 5.0 division was equally competitive. Hong Kit Wong proved to be the class of the field, taking home the gold. Bako Balint Gergo secured the silver, while Harrison Brown rounded out the top three with a bronze medal finish.

In the senior brackets, experience played a pivotal role. The Men's 50+ 5.0 category saw Minh Le climb to the top of the podium, defeating I Gusti Ngurah Alit Putra Haribawa (silver) and Bo Ouyang (bronze). The Women's 50+ 5.0 division was conquered by Lin Mei Chuan, who took gold ahead of Pini Lee. Notably, Ingrid Lau secured the bronze in this elite 50+ category, a prelude to her success elsewhere in the tournament.

Beyond the 5.0 elites, Day 2 showcased depth in other divisions. Ingrid Lau, not content with her bronze in the 50+ 5.0, dominated the Women’s 35+ 4.5 division to win gold. In the Men’s 35+ 4.5, Arthur Breton claimed the title, with Kin Long Chan taking silver. Meanwhile, the Men’s 19+ 3.5 division saw Jianhao Lin stand tall as the champion, signalling the arrival of new talent ready to climb the ratings ladder.

The World Pickleball Verdict

The WPC Masters in Hainan is serving as a critical showcase for international talent outside the North American bubble. The ability of players like Ingrid Lau to podium in multiple high-level categories demonstrates the endurance and versatility required at these major international opens.

With strong showings from players across the Asian circuit, the gap between the "West" and the "East" in pickleball proficiency continues to narrow.