The undisputed king of pickleball, has sent shockwaves through the sport with the announcement: Ben Johns Retire by 2030. At just 26, with 123 PPA Tour titles, 21 triple crowns, and a staggering 108-match singles winning streak, Johns has redefined what it means to dominate. But as the clock ticks toward his exit, one question looms: what will his legacy be when he hangs up his paddle?
In this deep dive, we explore Johns’ meteoric career, his projected $21-24 million earnings, his race with Anna Leigh Waters to 200 gold medals, the tantalizing prospect of pickleball in the 2028 Olympics, and a potential 2032 comeback. Ready for the ultimate look at the pickleball GOAT? Watch our exclusive video for the full story!
The Rise of Ben Johns
Born in 1999 in Gaithersburg, Maryland, Ben Johns wasn’t destined for pickleball stardom—or so it seemed. Raised on tennis and table tennis, he honed a unique blend of precision and power that would later make him untouchable. In 2016, at 17, he discovered pickleball, a sport blending elements of his childhood games.
By 2017, he was already turning heads, clinching his first gold at the Riverbend RV Resort Pickleball Tournament. Two years later, in 2019, he etched his name in history as the first male to win a triple crown—gold in singles, men’s doubles, and mixed doubles—at the Tournament of Champions. Since then, Johns has been a force of nature, rewriting the pickleball playbook with every swing.
As of April 2025, Johns boasts 123 PPA Tour titles, more than any male player in history, and 21 triple crowns, a record that towers over rivals like Tyson McGuffin, who trails by over 100 titles. His 108-match singles winning streak from 2020 to 2022 is the stuff of legend, and he’s held the world No. 1 ranking in singles, men’s doubles (with brother Collin), and mixed doubles (with Anna Leigh Waters) for most of the past five years. His partnership with Waters produced 16 consecutive mixed doubles titles from March 2023 to February 2024, a streak that electrified fans. These aren’t just stats—they’re monuments to a player who’s redefined pickleball.
Ben Johns Retire: Projecting His 2030 Legacy
When Ben Johns retires in 2030 at age 31, what will his record books show? Let’s project his trajectory based on his current dominance. Johns averages 10-12 PPA titles per year, a conservative estimate given his consistency. Over five years, he could add 50-60 titles, pushing his total to 173-183 PPA Tour golds. His triple crown count, currently at 21, could climb to 26-28 with 5-7 more, a record likely to stand for decades. In singles, his 95% win percentage faces new challenges from rising stars like Federico Staksrud and JW Johnson, but we project he’ll maintain a 90%+ win rate, potentially hitting 50 singles titles.
In the professional record books, Johns is already the winningest male player in PPA history. By 2030, he’s poised to retire with the most titles, triple crowns, and consecutive wins in singles and doubles, cementing his status as the greatest of all time. But a shadow looms—Anna Leigh Waters, the 18-year-old phenom, is chasing the same milestones. Their race to 200 career gold medals is pickleball’s most gripping storyline, and it’s one we’ll unpack soon. For now, Johns’ trajectory screams one word: untouchable.
Want to see how his stats stack up? Check out our video for a visual breakdown of Ben Johns’ path to 2030!
The Money Game: Ben Johns’ Earnings by 2030
Pickleball isn’t just a game for Ben Johns—it’s a goldmine. Estimating his career earnings involves prize money, salaries, and endorsements. In 2021, he earned $250,000, but by 2024, that skyrocketed to $2.5 million in salary and endorsements, fueled by the PPA Tour and Major League Pickleball (MLP) merger, backed by private equity. Add $150,000 annually in prize money from tournaments and sponsorships with brands like JOOLA, Vive Health, and Yeti, and we estimate his earnings from 2017 to 2025 at $7-8 million.
Looking to 2030, pickleball’s financial landscape is exploding. The 2023 PPA National Championships offered $275,000, and by 2028, top tournaments could hit $500,000-$1 million in purses. If Johns maintains his $2.5 million salary and adds $200,000-$300,000 in yearly prize money, he could bank another $14-16 million by retirement. That puts his total career earnings at $21-24 million, making him one of the highest-paid athletes in any emerging sport. His business ventures—Pickleball Getaways, Pickleball 360, and his JOOLA paddle line—could add another $2-3 million, ensuring his financial legacy rivals his on-court dominance.
The Race to 200 Gold Medals: Ben Johns vs. Anna Leigh Waters
Ben Johns’ legacy isn’t just about titles, it’s about the rivalries that define him. Enter Anna Leigh Waters, the 18-year-old prodigy who’s rewriting records alongside him. As of April 2025, Johns has 123 PPA titles, while Waters, with 83, is closing in fast. Both are chasing a monumental milestone: 200 career gold medals, a feat that could cement either as pickleball’s ultimate icon.
Waters’ youth gives her an edge. She competes in more events, averaging 12-15 titles per year compared to Johns’ 10-12. At her blistering pace of 48 golds annually, she could hit 200 by mid-2026, needing just 52 more. Johns, requiring 49, averages 24 golds a year but plans to scale back singles to focus on ventures like his JOOLA paddle line, pushing his timeline to mid-2027. Waters’ dominance in triples—her 25th triple crown in Atlanta 2024—makes her the favorite to reach 200 first, potentially by 2028-2029, while Johns might hit it closer to 2030.
Yet, their rivalry isn’t just about numbers—it’s personal. Waters credits Johns’ mental toughness for inspiring her, while Johns praises her positivity under pressure. Their mixed doubles partnership, with 16 straight titles, is electric, but as competitors, they push each other to new heights. Whether battling in singles or dominating doubles, their race to 200 golds is pickleball’s golden storyline. Who’ll get there first? Watch our video to join the debate!
Pickleball in the 2028 Olympics: Ben Johns’ Crowning Moment?
One of the most thrilling prospects for pickleball—and Ben Johns—is its potential inclusion in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. With 13.6 million players in the U.S. alone and endorsements from icons like LeBron James and Tom Brady, the sport’s global growth is undeniable. The International Pickleball Federation is lobbying hard, and LA’s innovative approach to new sports makes pickleball a strong candidate for a demonstration or medal event.
Imagine Ben Johns and Anna Leigh Waters, the world’s No. 1 mixed doubles team, stepping onto the Olympic stage. Their chemistry—16 consecutive titles, unmatched precision, and clutch plays—would make them gold medal favorites. Johns’ sniper-like accuracy paired with Waters’ aggressive volleys could captivate global audiences, elevating pickleball to new heights. An Olympic gold would be the crowning jewel of Johns’ career, solidifying his legacy as a sports icon.
But what if pickleball misses 2028? Could the 2032 Brisbane Olympics, when Johns is 33, tempt a comeback? Having hinted at post-retirement roles in mentoring and media, the lure of Olympic glory might pull the GOAT back to the court. This “what if” scenario is a pickleball fan’s dream.
The Future of Pickleball: A Booming Sport
Pickleball’s rise isn’t just about Ben Johns, it’s a global phenomenon. In 2023, the PPA Tour awarded $5.5 million in prize money, a 250% jump from prior years. By 2030, with media deals, international expansion, and sponsors like Carvana and Fila, annual purses could hit $15-20 million across the PPA and MLP. Top players like Johns and Waters might earn $50,000-$100,000 per tournament, with salaries climbing to $3-4 million annually.
For Johns, these final years could be his most lucrative. His business ventures: Pickleball Getaways, Pickleball 360, and his JOOLA paddle line, will keep cash flowing, potentially adding $2-3 million by 2030. As pickleball’s pro circuit rivals tennis, Johns’ financial legacy will match his on-court supremacy, proving he’s not just a player but a pioneer.
Beyond the Court: Ben Johns Retire Post The Game
When Ben Johns retires in 2030, don’t expect him to fade. With a degree in Materials Science and Engineering, he could revolutionize sports tech, designing next-gen paddles or courts. His podcast, Freestyle Boys, hints at a media future; imagine him as a commentator, dissecting matches with razor-sharp insight. Johns has also spoken of mentoring, potentially launching clinics or a foundation to grow pickleball globally.
His impact will endure. By 2030, Johns will leave pickleball as a mainstream sport with Olympic dreams and a pro circuit challenging tennis. He’s already inspired millions to play, and his legacy as the GOAT will echo in every court, from Austin, Texas, to international arenas.
Ben Johns Retire: Why His Legacy Matters
Ben Johns’ decision to retire by 2030 marks the end of an era, but his story is far from over. With nearly 200 titles, $20 million-plus in earnings, and a shot at 2028 Olympic gold, he’s building a legacy that will inspire generations. Will he outpace Anna Leigh Waters to 200 golds? Could a 2032 Olympic comeback redefine his career? One thing’s certain: the pickleball world will never forget Ben Johns.
This journey from a Maryland kid with a paddle to the sport’s greatest is a testament to talent, grit, and vision. As pickleball surges, driven by players like Johns, Waters, and rising stars like Federico Staksrud, every match writes history.
Join The Pickleball Revolution
With Ben Johns retire by 2030 will close a chapter, but the pickleball revolution he sparked is just beginning. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or new to the sport, now’s the time to join the action.
For a cinematic look at Johns’ career, his rivalry with Anna Leigh Waters, and what’s next for pickleball, check out our Youtube page Pickleball Pantry or the video below! Share your thoughts in the comments, where will Johns rank among sports legends? Will he return for 2032? Subscribe to our channel for weekly pickleball insights, from PPA Tour breakdowns to Olympic updates. Let’s keep the paddle swinging!
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FAQ: Ben Johns Retire – Who Will Dominate Pickleball by 2030?
Ben Johns Retire Question 1: Will Federico Staksrud Be the Top Male Pickleball Player by 2030?
Federico Staksrud has already shaken the pickleball world, snatching the No. 1 singles and doubles rankings from Ben Johns in 2024. At 29, his blend of power, precision, and cerebral play—honed since starting pickleball in 2021—makes him a prime candidate to dominate by 2030. His 2024 season was historic, with medals in 20 of 24 PPA events and a silver with Hayden Patriquin at the PPA Masters. Staksrud’s partnership with Patriquin yielded three doubles golds, including the Tour Finals, showing his versatility across disciplines.
By 2030, at 34, Staksrud will still be in his prime, likely amassing 50-70 PPA titles if he maintains his 8-10 titles per year pace. His edge lies in consistency—handling power players better than Johns with superior net coverage—but Johns’ head-to-head wins in 2024 singles finals highlight a hurdle. To claim the top spot, Staksrud must consistently beat veterans like Johns and fend off younger stars like JW Johnson. His international appeal, as an Argentine, could also globalize the sport, boosting his brand.
Ben Johns Retire Question 2: Can Hayden Patriquin Overtake Ben Johns by 2030?
At 19, Hayden Patriquin is pickleball’s prodigy, exploding onto the scene with 10 doubles medals in 2024, including three golds with Staksrud. Hailing from Yucaipa, California, he swapped baseball for pickleball at 13, turning pro in 2022. His aggressive style, powered by the Franklin FS Tour Dynasty paddle, and partnerships with top players like Staksrud and Riley Newman (gold at 2024 World Championships) make him a future contender. Leading the St. Louis Shock to MLP success, Patriquin’s doubles DUPR of 6.954 ranks him among the elite.
By 2030, at 24, Patriquin could challenge for No. 1 if he refines his singles game, where he’s shown flashes (e.g., beating Johns in 2024) but struggles with consistency (21st at Holly Hill). Projecting 6-8 titles annually, he might hit 30-40 golds, trailing Johns’ projected 173-183 but surpassing many peers. His youth and work ethic—seen in his community coaching—give him an edge, but he’ll need to outpace Gabriel Tardio and Christian Alshon. Can he dethrone the GOAT?
Ben Johns Retire Question 3: Is Gabriel Tardio Poised to Lead Pickleball in 2030?
Gabriel Tardio, also 19, is a rising star tapped by Simone Jardim for a 2025 breakout. Born in Bolivia and based in Jupiter, Florida, Tardio turned pro three years ago, standing 6’1” with a right-handed game blending speed and patience. His 2024 highlights include a mixed doubles gold with Jessie Irvine and a $800,000 United Pickleball contract. Pairing with Ben Johns in 2025 men’s doubles—a shift from his successful run with Andrei Daescu—elevates his profile, positioning him as a right-side powerhouse (DUPR 6.891).
By 2030, at 24, Tardio could amass 25-35 titles, assuming 5-7 per year, especially if his Johns partnership yields consistent golds (experts predict multiple finals vs. Staksrud/Patriquin). His singles game, with two 2024 golds, needs polish to rival Staksrud’s, but his mixed doubles prowess—potentially with Anna Bright—could push him higher. Tardio’s global roots and charisma may draw sponsors, but he’ll compete with Patriquin for the youth crown.
Ben Johns Retire Question 4: Will JW Johnson or Christian Alshon Challenge for the Top Spot by 2030?
JW Johnson, 22, is a pickleball dynasty heir, with sister Jorja Johnson and mother Julie as pros. His 2024 showed consistency—podiums in men’s and mixed doubles, including golds with Dylan Frazier—but recent upsets (e.g., Zane Navratil in singles) expose gaps in aggression. Christian Alshon, 25, excels in mixed (silver with Etta Wright at 2024 World Championships) and men’s doubles, with a top-5 results ranking. Both boast DUPR scores above 6.7, trailing Staksrud’s 6.980.
By 2030, Johnson (27) and Alshon (30) could each hit 40-50 titles, projecting 6-8 annually. Johnson’s versatility across disciplines gives him a slight edge, but Alshon’s mixed doubles dominance—potentially pairing with Anna Leigh Waters post-Johns—could vault him higher. Both must overcome Staksrud’s consistency and the youth of Patriquin/Tardio. Their MLP performances (Johnson with Orlando Squeeze, Alshon with Chicago Slice) will test their mettle. Who’s your pick?
Ben Johns Retire Question 5: Could Anna Leigh Waters Dominate Both Men’s and Women’s Fields by 2030?
Anna Leigh Waters, 18, is pickleball’s reigning queen, holding No. 1 in singles, doubles, and mixed with 83 PPA titles by 2025. Her 2024 dominance—10 golds, triple-qualifying for Tour Finals with Catherine Parenteau sets a high bar. While she competes in women’s events, her mixed doubles success with Ben Johns (42 golds together) sparks debate: could she challenge men’s fields by 2030, at 23?
Waters’ aggressive style and mental toughness make her a threat, but men’s singles power (e.g., Staksrud’s forehand) poses a physical challenge. By 2030, she could hit 200 golds by 2028, outpacing Johns, with 12-15 titles yearly. Her influence may redefine rankings, potentially leading mixed or women’s fields while inspiring players like Anna Bright. If she pairs with Alshon or Tardio post-Johns, mixed golds could soar.
Ben Johns Retire Question 6: What Emerging Players Could Surprise Us by 2030?
Beyond Patriquin, Tardio, and Staksrud, pickleball’s youth wave is deep. Jack Munro, 17, a former baseball player, dreams of winning a 5.0 tournament, showing early singles promise. John Lucian Goins and Eric Oncins, both in their early 20s, are making MLP Challenger waves, with Goins upsetting veterans in 2024 APP events. Quang Duong, with singles wins over Johns, and Connor Garnett, third in 2024 singles, add firepower. Hunter Johnson, predicted to lead singles by 2025, could dominate by 2030 at 27.
These players, averaging 4-6 titles in 2024, could hit 20-30 by 2030 if they scale to 5-7 annually. International talents, like a hypothetical European or Asian breakout, may emerge as pickleball globalizes, especially if 2028 Olympics spark growth. Their challenge: surpassing Staksrud’s experience and Waters’ dominance.
Ben Johns Retire Question 7: How Will Ben Johns’ Retirement Impact the 2030 Rankings?
Ben Johns’ retirement by 2030 will reshape pickleball’s hierarchy. With 123 titles and 21 triple crowns in 2025, Johns projects to 173-183 golds, setting a near-unreachable bar. His exit opens the No. 1 spot, likely fueling a battle between Staksrud (consistency), Patriquin (youth), and Tardio (partnerships). Waters may dominate mixed and women’s fields, but men’s singles could see Hunter Johnson or Jaume Martinez Vich surge if they capitalize on 2025 momentum.
Johns’ mentorship or paddle innovations (via JOOLA) could indirectly boost players like Tardio, while his absence may shift sponsor dollars to Patriquin or Alshon. The 2028 Olympics, if pickleball debuts, could crown a new icon—perhaps Staksrud or Waters.
Ben Johns Retire Question 8: Will the 2028 Olympics Shape Pickleball’s Top Players by 2030?
The 2028 Los Angeles Olympics could redefine pickleball’s pecking order. If included, gold medals would elevate players like Anna Leigh Waters or Federico Staksrud, with Ben Johns potentially delaying retirement for glory. Gabriel Tardio and Hayden Patriquin, both 22 in 2028, could leverage Olympic exposure to dominate by 2030, especially in mixed doubles with partners like Anna Bright. A 2032 Brisbane Games delay might favor younger stars, as Johns (33) may not return.
Olympic training would sharpen skills—Staksrud’s net coverage, Tardio’s patience—while global audiences boost their brands. By 2030, Olympic medalists could hold top rankings, with Christian Alshon or JW Johnson as dark horses.
