A new chapter was added to the remarkable story of Pei Chuan Kao as the double English national champion achieved stunning success in Major League Pickleball Australia last weekend.
Pei captained her South East Asia Surge team to victory in Season Two at Royal Pines Resort on the Gold Coast by beating the Fast Fours in the final. To cap off an unforgettable trip, she was also named tournament MVP.
Major League Pickleball Australia (MLPA) follows the American MLP format and includes 12 teams that compete in in six events for $700,000 in prize money, a record for pickleball in the southern hemisphere.
“This victory means everything,” Pei wrote on Instagram. “It’s not just about what happens on the court – it’s about the amazing people behind it all. So glad that I got the MVP of Gold Coast and SEA Surge also win the champ!”
Pei arrived in the UK in February 2023 from Taiwan on a temporary working visa, but discovered the welcoming community of London Pickleball, led by Louise Stephens, which she admits changed her life. Louise’s care and guidance and the support of everyone in English pickleball has given Pei strong foundations to make a stunning start to her pro career.
“This MVP title belongs to everyone who’s been with us on this ride. Let’s keep chasing our dreams together,” she said.
Pei’s South East Asia Surge team features Marcel Chan from Hawaii, Leander Lazaro from the Philippines and Hsieh Yu-Chieh from Taiwan.
Pei paid tribute to her team: “You guys are the GOATs! Playing with you is what makes this journey so special. We did it, and I’m so proud to call you my team.”
Louise, Pei’s mentor and coach at London Pickleball, told Pickleball52: “When I see what Pei is achieving it makes me want to cry. I know that the pickleball community has been so important as the foundation for what she’s now doing. It’s very special to see.”
More info on the Pro Pickleball League Australia here.
