In a stunning turn of events, Ben Johns, widely regarded as one of the greatest pickleball players of all time, has shocked fans and the broader pickleball community with an unexpected announcement. Known for his dominance on the court and his seemingly unstoppable streak of victories, Johns’ decision has sent waves of disbelief through his massive following. The announcement, made through a social media post and a brief press conference, concerns his immediate future in the sport and a new direction he’s planning to take.
Johns, 25, has been a central figure in pickleball for several years, capturing numerous championships and making a name for himself with his skill, precision, and strategy. His playing style has earned him a devoted fan base and made him a household name in the sport, which continues to gain popularity. As one of the most successful athletes in the history of pickleball, it was expected that Johns would continue his reign at the top for the foreseeable future. However, the announcement he made on March 18, 2025, caught everyone by surprise.
In his statement, Ben Johns revealed that he would be stepping back from competitive pickleball for the time being. His reasons, although personal, were related to wanting to focus on broader goals and taking a step away from the intense travel and commitment that a professional career demands. He mentioned the need for “personal growth” and to explore other opportunities within the sport, such as coaching and philanthropy.
Fans were left stunned by the news, with many taking to social media to express their disbelief. “I can’t believe this. Ben was the face of pickleball, and now he’s stepping away?” one fan tweeted. “This is a huge loss for the sport, but I respect his decision. Wishing him the best of luck in whatever comes next,” another wrote. In the wake of the announcement, the pickleball community has been flooded with messages of support, as well as questions about what comes next for Johns.
Despite stepping back from competitive play, Johns has made it clear that he will not be leaving the sport entirely. In fact, he’s already begun to pivot to a new phase of his career, focusing on mentoring the next generation of players. “I want to give back to the sport that has given me so much. There’s so much potential in pickleball, and I’m excited to help young players realize their dreams,” Johns explained. His coaching aspirations come as no surprise, given his deep understanding of the game and his ability to teach and strategize.
Moreover, Johns shared his interest in establishing a foundation dedicated to supporting the growth of pickleball at the grassroots level, especially among underrepresented communities. “Pickleball is such an inclusive sport, and I want to make sure it’s accessible to everyone,” he said. His philanthropic efforts could change the landscape of the sport, bringing more attention to local initiatives and helping to build the sport’s future.
As for his immediate future, Johns has indicated that he plans to focus on some personal projects outside of pickleball, including fitness and wellness, as well as his involvement in the pickleball industry. He’s rumored to be working on launching a new line of equipment and apparel, which could be another avenue for him to remain involved with the sport while also innovating and expanding his influence.
Although Ben Johns’ departure from competitive pickleball leaves a significant void in the sport, his legacy is already secure. His unprecedented achievements, both in singles and doubles play, will remain etched in pickleball history. As fans continue to digest the news, they are left with the hope that Johns will continue to be a major figure in the world of pickleball, even if from a different angle. His unexpected decision may be the beginning of a new chapter, one that will be as impactful off the court as his incredible career was on it.
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