Your cart is currently empty!
In the fast-paced world of pickleball, few names stand out as prominently as Ben Johns. After years of dominating the courts alongside his brother, Collin Johns, Ben has revealed a series of pivotal changes that promise to reshape his career—and possibly the sport—heading into 2025. In a recent interview with Hannah Johns, Ben discussed ending his partnership with Collin, exploring new alliances, and adapting to the ever-evolving style of modern pickleball. Here’s a closer look at his journey and what fans can expect in the coming season.
- Parting Ways with Collin Johns
For four years, Ben and Collin Johns formed one of the most formidable pairs in professional pickleball. They maintained the #1 ranking, enjoyed a 75% podium finish rate, and racked up 33 titles together. Surprisingly, the decision to go their separate ways in 2025 wasn’t driven by performance issues.
“It wasn’t about performance,” Ben clarifies. “We just needed variety to keep our enthusiasm for the game alive.”
While fans might be disappointed to see this iconic duo split, Ben assures there’s no bad blood. In fact, he leaves the door open for future collaborations, suggesting that a reunion could happen when the timing feels right.
- New Partnerships on the Horizon
Teaming Up with Gabe Tardio
Ben’s choice to partner primarily with Gabe Tardio in 2025 marks a significant shift. Gabe’s high-pressure, aggressive playstyle has caught Ben’s attention both as a rival and as a potential ally. Ben notes that Gabe has been one of the toughest competitors he’s faced recently—a key factor that persuaded him to join forces.
“Gabe’s intensity and ability to apply pressure impressed me,” Ben explains. “He pushes me to raise my own game.”
Other Potential Partners
Beyond Gabe, Hayden Patriquin and Max Freeman are also on Ben’s radar. Hayden is known for embracing the new, fast-paced nature of pickleball, while Max Freeman—a lefty—brings unconventional tactics that intrigue Ben.
- The Power of Left-Right Combinations
One of Ben’s most striking revelations is his belief in the “overpowered” nature of left-right player combinations. Left-handed athletes like Max Freeman can cover angles in ways that unsettle opponents and open up fresh strategies.
“Lefties bring an element of unpredictability,” Ben says. “They break up the patterns righty-only teams rely on.
This advantage could play a decisive role in modern pickleball, where rapid net exchanges and crafty shot selections often determine the outcome of a match.
- Adapting to an Evolving Game
Pickleball’s tempo has accelerated significantly over the past few seasons. The defensive, tactical approach that once dominated is giving way to a more attacking, high-speed style. Ben acknowledges this shift and plans to strike a balance between his hallmark strategic play and the bolder, quick-strike tactics that are taking over the sport.
“You can’t just rely on one style,” Ben remarks. “You have to adapt, evolve, and find the right mix.”
- Sibling Rivalry on the Court
With Ben and Collin no longer playing as a team, fans are understandably excited to see how they’ll fare against each other on opposite sides of the net. While the rivalry may heat up on the court, Ben assures there’s still mutual respect and support between the siblings.
- Goals for 2025 and Beyond
Amid these major career adjustments, Ben remains focused on continuous growth rather than racking up a specific number of wins or titles. His goals include:
- Daily progress in skills and technique
- Off-court training and nutrition improvements
- Building chemistry with new partners through practice and open communication
By zeroing in on incremental gains, Ben aims to keep his competitive edge while still enjoying the process.
Ben Johns’ transition to new partners and strategies signals an exciting chapter in pickleball. With a renewed sense of purpose and a commitment to evolving his game, he’s primed to remain a leading figure in the sport. Whether you’re a seasoned tournament player or just discovering the joys of a friendly match, I&G Pickleball is here to keep you updated on every rally, rivalry, and revelation in the pickleball world. Stay tuned for more insights, expert tips, and all the latest news to help you elevate your game—at every level!
Picture Source: JOOLA Pickleball