The short answer: Vietnamese paddle brand Facolos has signed Gabe Tardio to a multi-year deal through 2027, making him a global ambassador who will play the EliteX paddle. Facolos has also become an official paddle partner of the PPA Tour and Major League Pickleball. The deal marks the brand’s official entry into the US market and a co-branded apparel collection.
What’s the score?
Vietnamese brand Facolos has sent shockwaves through the industry by signing World No. 2 Gabe Tardio to a multi-year deal through 2027. Tardio, a 20-year-old prodigy, will serve as a global ambassador and compete exclusively with the EliteX paddle. Simultaneously, Facolos has secured status as an official paddle partner for both the PPA Tour and Major League Pickleball (MLP) in the United States.
Hit it deeper!
The deal represents a massive “bridge” between the burgeoning Asian market and the established U.S. pro scene. Tardio, who won nine gold medals in 2025 alongside Ben Johns, chose Facolos over several other major offers, citing the EliteX’s performance and the brand’s long-term R&D strategy. The EliteX features a T700 Raw Carbon face designed for maximum grit and spin, meeting all UPA-A and USA Pickleball standards.
Facolos is already a household name in 13 countries across Asia, but this partnership marks their official entry into the competitive American market. Ms. Võ Trần Quỳnh Trang, Vice General Director of Facolos, described the move as a “strategic investment” to elevate Asian pickleball on the world stage. In addition to paddles, the collaboration will produce a co-branded collection of apparel and accessories. Tardio is expected to continue his dominant partnership with Ben Johns in 2026 while making his debut with Facolos gear at the PPA Masters in California.
The World Pickleball verdict
The Tardio-Facolos deal is a watershed moment for equipment parity. For years, U.S. brands have dominated the professional circuit. By signing the world’s second-best player and becoming an official tour sponsor, Facolos is proving that Asian manufacturing and R&D are now at a global “gold standard” level. This move will likely trigger a new “paddle arms race” as brands from both hemispheres compete for the most influential young athletes.
