Top 10 Pro Pickleball Players 2024

Pickleball has rapidly surged in popularity over the past few years, transforming from a recreational pastime into a fully-fledged professional sport. This upswing in interest has not only brought hordes of new players but also a new wave of highly skilled professionals competing at the highest levels. Among the vibrant tapestry of the sport are the top pro pickleball players whose dedication, skill, and achievements have not only set them apart but also inspired countless others to pick up a paddle. It’s a sport that requires agility, strategy, and athletic prowess, akin to a dance where players must bounce, dart, and spin in a flurry of action. These athletes have carved names for themselves and continue to impact the game. In this article, we will dive deep into the world of professional pickleball players, exploring their rankings, notable achievements, and what sets them apart in this fast-growing sport.

Top Pro Pickleball Players 2024

Professional pickleball rankings mirror the ups and downs of a roller coaster, where players soar high with each victory and occasionally dip low due to tough matches. Just as a well-tuned engine relies on each part working in harmony, the rankings depend on players’ performances across various tournaments. Rankings in pickleball are managed meticulously, reflecting players’ ability to perform consistently over time. The system considers several factors like winning tournaments, defeating high-ranking opponents, and accumulating points through match victories.

Unlike other sports where rankings might remain static for periods, pickleball rankings are dynamic and regularly updated based on recent performances. For example, players like Ben Johns and Anna Leigh Waters currently reign supreme, indicating their prowess and consistency in the sport. Below is a snapshot of the current top players in professional pickleball.

Current Rankings Overview

Men’s Singles	Women’s Singles	Men’s Doubles	Women’s Doubles
1. Federico Staksrud	1. Anna Leigh Waters	1. Collin Johns	1. Anna Leigh Waters
2. Ben Johns	2. Lea Jansen	2. Ben Johns	2. Anna Bright
3. Connor Garnett	3. Catherine Parenteau	3. Riley Newman	3. Catherine Parenteau
4. Tyson McGuffin	4. Irena Tereschenko	4. Matt Wright	4. Lea Jansen
5. Jay Devilliers	5. Mary Brascia	5. Dylan Frazier	5. Lucy Kovalova

Analyzing these rankings, it’s clear they encapsulate a journey marked by rigorous training, dedication, and a lot of passion. Players are painted vividly in a canvas of athleticism, each one striving for the top while occasionally experiencing setbacks. The emotional landscape of competition in pickleball is powerful; victories feel euphoric, and defeats can be crushing. Yet, it’s this roller coaster ride of emotions that makes their stories so compelling, setting the stage for endless narratives of struggle, determination, and triumph.

Criteria for Ranking Players

The criteria for ranking players in professional pickleball can be compared to the different ingredients in a recipe each element adding its unique flavor to the final dish. A well-balanced approach ensures that every player is evaluated on a level playing field. As outlined, the ranking system counts a multitude of factors:

Accumulated Points: Players earn points based on their performances in various sanctioned tournaments. These points determine their standings in the rankings. Higher points are awarded for players who finish deep in the tournament brackets, particularly in prestigious events.
Quality of Competition: Facing and defeating higher-ranked players can earn a player additional points, similar to how defeating a world champion in boxing elevates a fighter’s status significantly.
Two Key Ranking Systems:
- Year-to-Date Rankings: This ranking reflects players’ performances since the beginning of the calendar year, putting recent successes at the forefront.
- 52-Week Rankings: This method accumulates results over a rolling year, emphasizing consistent performance over time.

With this dual rating system, players receive recognition both for their sustained excellence and their current form, leading to a sport that rewards both consistency and the rapid emergence of talent.

Year-to-Date Player Points

The year-to-date point system functions as a dynamic scoreboard, reflecting players’ current performances in ongoing competitions. It acts not only as a measure of skill but also serves as motivation for emerging players who aspire to rise through the ranks.

Player	Year-to-Date Points
Ben Johns	15,000
Anna Leigh Waters	14,500
Tyson McGuffin	12,000
Catherine Parenteau	11,500
Riley Newman	10,000

As this table demonstrates, Ben Johns leads the pack with a staggering 15,000 points, reflecting his dominance and consistency in high-stakes matches. The emotionally charged atmosphere around point accumulation is palpable; each match influences not just individual standings but also shapes the ongoing narrative of the sport. As players strive to add to their points, they are literally writing their futures with every shot, every rally, and every game.

Notable Players

Several players stand out not just for their rankings but also for the vibrant personalities and styles they bring to the sport. Much like how authors bring life to a novel, these athletes breathe energy into pickleball, each contributing uniquely to its growing popularity.

Ben Johns: Often heralded as the face of pickleball, Johns has redefined excellence within the sport. His fluid playing style blends creativity with technical precision, making him a thrilling player to watch. The sense of anticipation builds in the crowd each time he steps onto the court; spectators know they’re about to witness something special.
Anna Leigh Waters: As one of the brightest stars of women’s pickleball, Waters captivates audiences with her tenacity and energetic gameplay. Constantly challenging the status quo, she embodies the spirit of innovation and resilience for which pickleball is known.
Tyson McGuffin: With a personality as vibrant as his playing style, McGuffin brings an element of showmanship to the competition. His triumphant journey from a newcomer to a seasoned professional exemplifies the dedication required to succeed in this physically demanding sport.
Catherine Parenteau: A dynamic player hailing from Canada, Parenteau smoothly transitions from singles to doubles, showcasing her versatility. She stands as a testament to the hard work and grit that characterize the female collective in a sport once dominated by men.

These notable players not only shine within the world of professional pickleball but also influence younger generations. Their stories of struggle, resilience, and determination resonate with many aspiring athletes, proving that success is attainable with hard work and passion.

Top Male Players

The male pickleball circuit presents a mélange of talent, from seasoned professionals to up-and-coming stars. Each player adds layers to the competitive landscape:

Ben Johns: As the most successful player in the sport’s history, Johns has amassed over 65 PPA titles to his name, showcasing his dominance in singles and doubles formats. His style is marked by strategic shot-making and impeccable court awareness, making him a formidable opponent.
Tyson McGuffin: Known for his aggressive playing style, McGuffin has secured five PPA major championships. His rapid rise to the top was marked by an impressive national championship win within a month of starting professional play.
Kyle Yates: A multi-talented athlete, Yates has made a name for himself in the doubles arena, securing numerous gold medals. His experience in tennis also contributes significantly to his strategic gameplay, allowing him to adapt quickly in dynamic match situations.
Jay Devilliers: A player with a wide range of skills and experience, Devilliers has garnered attention for his adaptability and competitive spirit. His achievements include numerous APP titles, bolstering his reputation as one of the top players in the sport.
Zane Navratil: As one of the newer faces on the pro circuit, Navratil has quickly established himself as a top contender, winning multiple singles events and achieving a top-five ranking in singles.

The male pickleball scene serves not only as entertainment but as a source of inspiration for both current players and fans. Each player’s journey reminds us of the tenacity, dedication, and heart that define the spirit of pickleball.

Top Female Players

Women’s professional pickleball is teeming with talent, showcasing the powerful and dynamic play styles of its top athletes.

Anna Leigh Waters: The youngest player to take the professional stage, Waters has achieved various accolades at a record pace. Her relentless pursuit of victory has captured the attention of fans and opponents alike, firmly positioning her as the leading force in women’s pickleball.
Catherine Parenteau: With a background in tennis, Parenteau has seamlessly adapted to the sport, quickly rising to prominence. Her strong serves and tactical gameplay make her a formidable opponent in every match.
Simone Jardim: Recognized for her strategic thinking and tactical prowess, Jardim has accumulated numerous titles, including the US Open and International Indoor Championships. She also serves as a mentor to upcoming players, solidifying her legacy within the sport.
Lea Jansen: After a brief hiatus, Jansen has made waves returning to singles play, achieving impressive finishes and reaffirming her position among the elite players in women’s pickleball.
Lucy Kovalova: This Slovakian dynamo excels in both singles and doubles. Her tenacity on the court and commitment to promoting gender equality in sports enhances her legacy as both a player and advocate.

The accomplishments of these women not only highlight their personal and athletic achievements but also symbolically mark a significant chapter in the evolution of women in sport. Their journeys serve as a powerful reminder of growth, empowerment, and opportunity within the world of pickleball.

Rising Stars in Pickleball

Looking beyond the established names, several rising stars in pickleball demonstrate remarkable skill and burgeoning potential. They are the promising athletes poised to challenge the top ranks, contributing to an exciting future for the sport.

Anna Bright: Bright has quickly gained a reputation for her formidable play style and competitive spirit, transitioning from tennis successfully. As a top contender, she’s set to make a significant impact on the professional scene.
Parris Todd: A former tennis player, Todd has quickly climbed the ranks. Her aggressive playing style and determination have led to numerous podium finishes already, heralding a bright future in the sport.
Lina Padegimaite: Despite not yet medaling consistently, Padegimaite’s performances have been noteworthy. Her athleticism coupled with strategic gameplay positions her as one to watch in the coming years.
Brooke Buckner: After a maternity break, Buckner made a strong comeback, finishing with a bronze in her first tournament back. Her story of resilience captures the essence of the rising stars’ narratives.

In a sport rich with potential, these rising talents illustrate the competitive spirit and the continuous influx of new skillsets that will shape the future of pickleball. Their journeys reflect not just personal growth but also the expanding reach and appeal of the sport.

Tournament Achievements

Tournament achievements serve as pivotal milestones in the careers of pro pickleball players. Recognizing these accolades is crucial to understanding each player’s path and the overall competitive landscape of the sport.

Ben Johns: His awards reflect seven Triple Crown titles and countless victories across singles, doubles, and mixed divisions. His tournaments showcase unmatched performances and consistently high rankings, feeling almost mythical.
Anna Leigh Waters: With numerous titles in both singles and doubles, her accolades demonstrate not only skill but also a competitive resilience that is both inspiring and powerful.
Catherine Parenteau: Her impressive résumé includes several tournament wins in mixed and women’s doubles, showcasing her versatile abilities.
Simone Jardim: Accumulating multiple prestigious championships demonstrates her tactical and technical prowess throughout her professional career.

Listing these achievements draws direct lines from each player’s initial steps in the sport to their current successes, establishing their stories as part of pickleball’s illustrious history.

Major Tournament Wins

Championship titles are a testament to players’ skills and capabilities, reflecting the pinnacle of achievement within pickleball. Below are some highlights of major tournament wins by leading players:

Player	Major Tournaments Won
Ben Johns	3 US Open Titles, 5 PPA Major Championships
Anna Leigh Waters	1 US Open Title, 2 PPA Cups
Catherine Parenteau	1 PPA Major Title, 3 National Championships
Simone Jardim	2 US Open Titles, 1 International Indoor Championship
Tyson McGuffin	4 National Championships, multiple PPA Cup titles

For instance, Ben Johns’s dominance, seen in his striking number of titles, paints a vivid picture of competitive success. The fervor of tournaments resonates in the hearts of players and fans alike, highlighting the immense pressure and prestige tied to each match.

Recent Tournament Highlights

Recent tournaments have brought exhilarating moments, further shaping the narrative of professional pickleball. Major events such as the 2024 PPA Tour and numerous local competitions have showcased exceptional talent and thrilling matches, elevating the sport’s profile on a national scale.

Ben Johns achieved an incredible milestone by securing his 124th PPA title at the 2024 PPA Iowa Open, continuing his winning streak and cementing his legacy.
Anna Leigh Waters made headlines by capturing gold in both women’s singles and mixed doubles, reinforcing her status as one of the top athletes in the sport.

These tournaments not only provide intense competition but also foster moments of joy, heartbreak, and triumph, making them the lifeblood of professional pickleball.

See more: How to Become a Pro Pickleball Player: Expert Tips and Tricks

Historical Player Achievements

Historical achievements encapsulate the essence of players’ journeys and contribute to the ongoing legacy of pickleball. From their humble beginnings to reaching legendary status, certain milestones serve as benchmarks in the sport:

Ben Johns: His victory at the first Triple Crown tournament is a defining moment, representing his ascendance in the male circuit.
Anna Leigh Waters: Being the youngest player to achieve a clean sweep in major tournaments is a groundbreaking achievement that resonates with aspiring youngsters.
Simone Jardim: Her consistent reign as a top female competitor reflects not only her skill but also her dedication to mentoring the next generation of players.

These historical achievements help to lay the groundwork for future aspiring players while also ensuring that the stories of past champions remain lively and influential in the sport.

Player Profiles

Diving deeper into the world of pickleball personalities, player profiles reveal unique insights into the lives of these athletes. From their initials steps into the sport to their current accolades, each profile tells a compelling story.

Ben Johns:
- Age: 26
- Hometown: Maryland
- Playing Style: Versatile, Aggressive
- Notable Achievements: 3-time Triple Crown winner, multiple PPA titles.
Anna Leigh Waters:
- Age: 16
- Hometown: Florida
- Playing Style: Aggressive, Strategic
- Notable Achievements: Youngest player to win a major title, numerous gold medals.
Tyson McGuffin:
- Age: 32
- Hometown: Idaho
- Playing Style: Aggressive, Fast-paced
- Notable Achievements: 4-time national champion, multiple PPA cups.
Catherine Parenteau:
- Age: 29
- Hometown: Canada
- Playing Style: Tactical, Strong Serve
- Notable Achievements: Multiple top rankings, wins across singles and doubles.

These profiles highlight the depth of talent within the professional pickleball arena, each player carving a distinct path in the sport they love.

Detailed Profiles of Top Players

Diving deeper into the individual players’ histories and performance metrics helps illuminate their contributions to pickleball. Below are more extensive profiles focusing on accomplishments, playing styles, and overall impact on the sport.

Ben Johns

Ben Johns, often recognized as the top player in the world, is a training phenomenon. His rigorous daily routines include competitive match practice combined with strength and conditioning, showcasing his commitment. His domination in the singles category is paralleled by his achievements in doubles. His performance stats speak volumes:

Total Titles: 124 PPA titles
Singles Win Rate: 95%
Notable Achievements: Winner of the US Open for three consecutive years, first player to reach the Triple Crown milestone.

Through a meticulous blend of precision and adaptability, Johns leaves a mark that shapes the sport’s future.

Anna Leigh Waters

At just 16, Anna Leigh Waters exudes confidence rarely seen in athletes of her age. Known for her ferocity on the court, Waters combines agility with strategic smarts. Her influential presence is notable:

Total Titles: 47 matches won in a row
Age/Youngest Ace: Youngest player to achieve a gold medal in mixed doubles at the national championships.
Playing Style: Fearless, innovative, showcasing versatility in singles and doubles.

Her ascendance offers a glimpse of the exciting future of pickleball, encouraging younger players to aim for greatness.

Players’ Specializations and Skills

The playing styles of professional pickleball players are as varied as their backgrounds. Players carve out their niches based on unique skills, often paralleling those found in other racquet sports such as tennis or badminton. The skillset required in pickleball is reminiscent of an artist wielding their brush, each stroke contributing to a masterpiece of athleticism.

Ben Johns:
- Renowned for his ambidextrous skills, Johns can effortlessly switch hands during play, allowing him to execute shots from unexpected angles. His backhand is one of the most feared in the sport, displaying agility and precision unmatched by most.
Anna Leigh Waters:
- A dynamic player, Waters combines speed and strategy, layering her game with powerful serves and agile movement across the court. Her footwork allows her to dominate both singles and doubles matches effectively.
Tyson McGuffin:
- Known for his ferocious serves and quick reflexes, McGuffin’s physicality sets him apart in singles matches. His combination of speed, power, and competitive mentality makes him a top contender.
Catherine Parenteau:
- With her strategic play style, Parenteau excels in placing shots where her opponents least expect them. She brings a strong net game into play, capitalizing on skilled setups and volleys.

This diversity of skills fosters an engaging atmosphere in pickleball, as each match unfolds with the promise of excitement. The art of pickleball is thus painted with individual contributions, creating a colorful tapestry of gameplay.

Players’ Career Highlights

As we shift gears to explore the standout moments in these players’ careers, it’s clear that every victory showcases their hard-earned skills, emotional battles, and relentless pursuit of greatness. Career highlights often showcase pivotal moments where players have surpassed expectations, striking emotional chords with their fans.

Ben Johns:
- Career Highlight: Achieving a 124-match winning streak in singles, solidifying him as an undeniable force in the sport.
Anna Leigh Waters:
- Career Highlight: Her victory at a major tournament at the age of 14 had fans buzzing and showcased her unstoppable rise, solidifying her as a new face of women’s pickleball.
Tyson McGuffin:
- Career Highlight: Winning the PPA Cornhole and Pickleball Championship in a fierce singles competition against top-ranked players, demonstrating his vast skill set.
Catherine Parenteau:
- Career Highlight: Winning the US National Championships in both women’s and mixed doubles, establishing her as one of the top competitors across multiple disciplines.

Each highlight resonates deeply with fans and fellow athletes, serving as a reminder of what can be achieved through hard work and passion for the game.

Sponsorships and Endorsements

In professional sports, sponsorships are not merely financial backing; they symbolize recognition, mentorship, and involvement that can catalyze a player’s growth. For pickleball players, affiliations with reputable brands can be a transformative factor in their careers.

Top Sponsors in Pickleball

Franklin Sports: Known for quality equipment, they support players through gear and financial sponsorships, associating their brand with the sport’s elite athletes.
Selkirk Sport: As a leading producer of paddles and gear, Selkirk sponsors various top players, emphasizing performance through state-of-the-art equipment.
Joola: Joining the ranks of major sponsors, Joola equips many professionals, enhancing their visibility within the sport.
Engage Pickleball: Focused on grassroots efforts, Engage also champions elite players, merge community promotion with national visibility.

Impact of Sponsorships on Player Careers

The ramifications of sponsorships transcend simple financial aid; they touch on competitive readiness, preparation, and overall career advancement. For example:

Financial Support: Endorsements significantly reduce the financial stress of players, allowing them to focus solely on training and competing.
Equipment Access: Sponsored players gain access to the best training equipment and gear, enhancing their performance.
Visibility and Opportunities: With sponsor involvement, players can increase their media presence while reaching broader audiences. This visibility attracts additional sponsors and increases marketability.

The flow of resources from sponsorships to player successes creates a tightly knit community of athletes, further enriching the sport’s narrative while forging deep connections between brands and athletes.

Player Development

Player development is essential for sustaining the growth of pickleball. Beyond just emerging talent, it encompasses every aspect of an athlete’s journey, from training regimens to handling the pressures of competition.

Training Regimens of Top Players

Focus on Physical Fitness: Players maintain a structured fitness regime, incorporating strength, agility, and endurance training into their schedules. This prepares them for long matches and high-stakes competition.
Skill-Specific Practices: Top players continually refine specific skills through dedicated drills. This includes mastering serves, volleys, and backhand shots, ensuring their versatility on the court.
Mental Conditioning: Engaging in mental exercises including visualization techniques helps players to manage the psychological aspects of competition.

These development initiatives ensure that players evolve, adapt, and thrive in a competitive arena. Player development not only extends the careers of emerging stars but also elevates the overall quality and excitement of pickleball.

How Players Prepare for Tournaments

Preparation for tournaments goes beyond mere physical training; it encompasses a holistic approach involving diet, mental strategy, and tactical understanding of opponents. Players utilize various strategies:

Nutritional Plans: Maintaining balanced diets that provide energy and recovery aid players in peak performance throughout tournaments.
Performance Analysis: Players analyze their own performances and those of opponents, using video reviews to strategize and build strong game plans.
Mock Matches: Engaging in simulated matches against higher-ranked opponents helps in preparing for the pressure of competitive settings, familiarizing players with various playing styles.

Through these dedicated approaches, players are sculpted not just as athletes, but as intelligent competitors who can analyze and adjust their strategies dynamically.

Dietary and Fitness Considerations

The intersection of nutrition and fitness in pickleball is critical for sustaining endurance during matches. By honing dietary habits, players can ensure their bodies are ready for peak performance:

Hydration: Staying hydrated means consistently drinking water, particularly during intense matches, ensuring optimal function and minimizing fatigue.
Balanced Meals: By incorporating carbohydrates, proteins, and fats into their diets, players maintain energy levels throughout training and competition.
Recovery Protocols: Post-match nutrition strategies include smoothies or protein supplements to aid in muscle recovery, ensuring they are fit for the next contest.

By merging fitness training with meticulous dietary considerations, players are equipped to face the rigorous demands of professional play while maintaining optimal physical condition.

Future of Professional Pickleball

The future of professional pickleball looks promising, characterized by rapid growth and emerging trends that will shape the sport for generations to come. The landscape is evolving, not just through the addition of players but through an ever-expanding audience and increased sponsorship opportunities.

Trends in Player Performance

Technological Advancements: Innovations such as swing analysis software and performance tracking devices are becoming essential tools for players to optimize their training.
Increased Participation: The influx of players transitioning from other racquet sports or those starting from youth leagues ensures a broad, competitive landscape.
Professional Pathways: With organizations committed to developing players, the establishment of youth leagues, mentorship programs, and clinics will nurture talent at every level.

Emerging Talents in the Sport

Youth Involvement: Expanding youth programs across communities introduces younger generations to the sport, ensuring sustained growth.
Diversity and Inclusion: Efforts to broaden representation within the sport encourage various demographics to participate, enriching the overall player pool.

The Growth of Professional Leagues

The establishment of leagues such as the PPA and MLP has propelled the sport to new heights, garnering media attention and fan engagement. These organizations present opportunities for players, ensuring a competitive framework that fosters excellence while increasing the visibility of professional pickleball.

The future of professional pickleball is bright and exciting. With innovative approaches to player development, embracing technology, and an overflowing pool of rising talent, the sport is poised to not just retain its current audience but attract passionate newcomers eager to be part of this vibrant community.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the world of professional pickleball is a dynamic and rapidly evolving landscape teeming with talent, dedication, and excitement. From the elite championships fought fiercely by players like Ben Johns and Anna Leigh Waters, to the vibrant, rising stars, each contributes significantly to the sport’s growth and popularity. Their journeys, marked by incredible achievements and unwavering passion, mirror the essence of what it means to be a professional athlete.

Moreover, the sport’s structural advancements ranging from innovative leagues to comprehensive player development programs promote a holistic approach to growth, inspiring more players to engage and excel. Sponsorships and endorsements enhance the careers of professionals while solidifying pickleball’s place in the sporting world. As new talents emerge and established athletes continue to push the boundaries of what’s possible, the narrative of pickleball will only deepen and expand.

As we look to the future, the excitement surrounding professional pickleball is palpable. With a relentless influx of talent and increasing opportunities for players, it is a thrilling time for the sport. The legacy of professional pickleball is being written, and the authors are none other than the players actively making the game what it is today. As this inclusive and empowering sport continues to capture hearts worldwide, the future appears not only bright but deeply promising for everyone involved in this exhilarating game of skill, strategy, and passion.

Top 10 Pro Pickleball Players 2024 – Lastest Update