The short answer: Vietnamese sports brand Zocker named Huỳnh Thiên Phúc, known as Phúc Huỳnh and ranked Asia’s No. 1 men’s singles player, as its brand ambassador at a press conference in Hanoi on 21 March. He helped design Zocker’s new Aspire paddle, which comes in 13.3mm and 16mm versions with a T700 Japanese carbon fibre surface.
What’s the score?
Vietnamese sports brand Zocker has named Huỳnh Thiên Phúc, widely known as Phúc Huỳnh and recognized as Asia’s No.1 men’s singles pickleball player, as its new brand ambassador. This partnership includes the launch of Zocker’s new Aspire paddle line, in which Phúc Huỳnh played a significant role in design and development.
Hit it deeper!
In a significant move highlighting the growing prominence of pickleball in Asia, Vietnamese sports brand Zocker officially announced its partnership with Huỳnh Thiên Phúc – or Phúc Huỳnh – as their newest brand ambassador. The announcement was made at a press conference in Hanoi on March 21, marking a key moment for pickleball in Vietnam.
Phúc Huỳnh, currently ranked as Asia’s top men’s singles pickleball player, has gained considerable recognition within the regional pickleball community for his dynamic playing style and consistent success in tournaments. His collaboration with Zocker is expected to not only boost the brand’s visibility but also contribute to the overall advancement of the sport. Zocker expressed pride in partnering with Phúc Huỳnh, citing his exceptional skills and dedication as perfectly aligning with their mission to support and promote pickleball in Vietnam and across Asia.
A central aspect of this partnership is the launch of Zocker’s new Zocker Aspire paddle line. Phúc Huỳnh was actively involved in the design, testing, and development of these paddles, ensuring they meet the needs of serious athletes while also being accessible to players of all levels. The Zocker Aspire paddle is designed for high-level performance and comes in two thickness options: 13.3mm and 16mm, offering versatility for various playing styles. Both models feature a hot-pressed honeycomb core, dual carbon edge layers, and a surface made from T700 Japanese carbon fiber, promising a blend of power, control, and durability.
With Phúc Huỳnh’s endorsement, the Aspire paddle is quickly gaining popularity among players in Vietnam and the broader region. Phúc Huỳnh shared his aim to create a paddle that could compete at the highest levels while also feeling comfortable for beginners.
The press conference also showcased Zocker’s broader ambassador program, with appearances from other athletes like Trương Vinh Hiển and Sophia Huỳnh Trần Ngọc Nhi, who represent Zocker’s line of pickleball balls. The event included a panel discussion and a fan meet-and-greet, generating excitement about the sport’s increasing popularity in Vietnam.
Founded in 2018, Zocker has established itself as a leading Vietnamese sports brand, known for its quality products in soccer, running, and now, internationally certified pickleball equipment. Zocker’s pickleball paddles and balls meet USAPA standards and have been used in international tournaments, receiving positive feedback from both Vietnamese and international players.
This partnership between Zocker and Phúc Huỳnh is seen as more than just a marketing strategy; it represents a significant step forward for the pickleball community in Asia. By combining top-tier products with the influence of elite athletes, the sport is well-positioned for substantial growth in the region. As pickleball continues its rapid expansion across Asia, alliances like this demonstrate Vietnam’s leading role in the movement.
The World Pickleball verdict
The partnership between Zocker and Phúc Huỳnh is a landmark moment for pickleball in Vietnam and Asia. By aligning with the region’s top men’s singles player, Zocker is making a strong statement about its commitment to the sport and its ambition to produce high-quality pickleball equipment. Phúc Huỳnh’s direct involvement in the development of the Aspire paddle line adds credibility and ensures that the product is designed with the needs of serious players in mind. This collaboration has the potential to significantly boost the popularity and competitive level of pickleball in Vietnam and inspire more athletes across Asia to pursue the sport professionally. Zocker’s dedication to meeting international standards with their equipment further signifies the growing maturity and global aspirations of the Asian pickleball market.
