Ben Johns: The Journey to Becoming the GOAT of Pickleball
Ben Johns has firmly established himself as the Greatest of All Time (GOAT) in pickleball. From humble beginnings to dominating the professional scene, his journey is a story of talent, hard work, and entrepreneurial success. As of today, he is not only celebrated for his incredible skills on the court but also for his financial success, which reflects his mastery of both the sport and its business opportunities.
Early Beginnings
Born in Gaithersburg, Maryland, in 1999, Ben Johns was introduced to pickleball by his older brother, Collin Johns. A former tennis player, Collin had taken to pickleball and encouraged Ben to try it. Despite being a newcomer to the sport, Ben’s athleticism and background in tennis allowed him to adapt quickly. By his late teens, he was already competing at a high level, and by 2017, he turned pro.
Rapid Ascent
Ben’s rise in pickleball was meteoric. He became known for his versatility, consistency, and tactical intelligence on the court. By 2018, he began winning major tournaments, including the USA Pickleball National Championships and the US Open Pickleball Championships. His dominance spans all formats—singles, doubles, and mixed doubles—making him a triple-threat player.
One of his standout features is his forehand roll, a shot that has become iconic in the sport. Johns is also renowned for his ability to stay calm under pressure, consistently outperforming his competition in clutch moments.
The Business of Pickleball
While dominating on the court, Ben has also made savvy business moves off the court. Recognizing pickleball’s rapid growth, he partnered with brands and launched his own line of paddles, the JOOLA Ben Johns Hyperion CFS 16, which has become one of the most popular paddles in the market. His endorsement deals, including partnerships with JOOLA and other prominent brands, have significantly boosted his earnings.
Ben has also contributed to the sport’s growth by co-founding Pickleball Getaways, a company that organizes pickleball-themed vacations. This entrepreneurial venture reflects his commitment to growing the sport beyond competitions.
Financial Success
As of 2024, Ben Johns is one of the highest-earning pickleball players in the world. His income comes from tournament winnings, sponsorships, paddle sales, and business ventures. While exact figures vary, conservative estimates suggest that he earns over $250,000 annually in tournament winnings alone, making him the top-paid player in the sport. Combined with sponsorship deals and his entrepreneurial income, Ben’s total annual earnings are believed to exceed $1 million.
Legacy as the GOAT
Ben Johns’ achievements on the court speak for themselves. With dozens of gold medals in the most prestigious tournaments, he has set records that may take decades to break. More importantly, his influence extends beyond personal accolades. He has inspired a new generation of players and helped elevate pickleball into the mainstream.
Conclusion
Ben Johns’ journey from a young enthusiast to the GOAT of pickleball is a testament to his skill, determination, and business acumen. Not only has he achieved unparalleled success on the court, but he has also turned his passion into a lucrative career, earning over a million dollars annually through his combined ventures. As pickleball continues to grow, Ben Johns remains the face of the sport, inspiring players and fans alike.