The Best Pickleball Players: 28 Pros You Need to Know

Pickleball has evolved from a weekend hobby to a fast-growing, professional sport. What started as a backyard game now features global tournaments, packed stadiums, and athletes training at elite levels. The top players master footwork, shot placement, and powerful serves that’ll make your paddle shake. Whether you're a beginner or a pro, there’s plenty to learn from their gameplay.

The roster of the best players is always shifting, but some consistently stand out. These players set the bar, combining power, precision, and pickleball IQ to show what the sport is all about.

At 11 PICKLES, we’ve got you covered with the latest on who’s crushing it in the pro scene. Each of them brings something unique to the court—not just in how they play, but in who they are. That’s one of the best things about this sport: there’s no one-size-fits-all style. You’ll see different backgrounds, personalities, strategies, and swagger out there; and somehow, it all works. We’ve compiled a list of 28 of the best pickleball players you should keep your eye on. 

Who is the #1 Pickleball Player in the World

The best pickleball players aren’t just defined by titles and stats. It’s their footwork, reaction speed, court vision, strategy, and signature shots that set them apart. They excel under pressure, work seamlessly in doubles, and continuously adapt to a sport that's always evolving.

When it comes to rankings, the numbers do play a role. The best pickleball players are tracked across pro circuits like the PPA, APP, and MLP, where consistent results against top-tier competition carry real weight. Rankings are updated regularly and factor in points earned, match wins, and the strength of opponent. Staying at the top is no easy feat, but two players have recently set themselves apart as the most consistently dominant in both the men's and women's divisions.

Best Men’s Pickleball Player: Ben Johns

If pickleball had a Mount Rushmore, Ben Johns would be front and center—probably holding a paddle in one hand and a chess piece in the other. Widely considered the GOAT of pickleball, Ben blends elite skill with next-level strategy to dominate in both singles and doubles. 

Ben Johns, from Gaithersburg, Maryland, was drawn to pickleball in 2016 after dabbling in tennis, table tennis, and baseball. Within months, he went pro and started dominating. Known for his cool, calculated style, Ben reads opponents effortlessly, adapts on the fly, and lands pinpoint shots. His backhand is lethal, and his court awareness is almost psychic. He and his brother, Collin, formed one of the most unstoppable doubles duos, though they'll part ways in 2025. Ben Johns has officially selected Gabe Tardio as his new men’s doubles partner.

Want to play like the GOAT? Grab one of Ben Johns’ signature paddles—like the JOOLA Hyperion or the sleek new JOOLA Perseus—and bring pro-level precision to your game. These paddles aren’t just for show; they’re built for domination. 

Fun Facts:

• He’s a legit chess nerd—and credits it for his on-court smarts.
• He has a degree in Materials Science and Engineering (yes, he’s a brainiac).

Career Highlights:

• 21 PPA Triple Crowns (winning singles, doubles, and mixed in the same tourney)
• Over 80 titles on the PPA Tour
• 108-match singles win streak and 22 straight mixed doubles titles in 2019
• Multiple US Open golds across all divisions
• First male pro to earn a triple crown at the Tournament of Champions (2019)
• Ben John’s estimated net worth is about $2 to $4 million with earnings that hit $2.5 million

Best Women’s Pickleball Player: Anna Leigh Waters

Anna Leigh Waters is a true pickleball phenomenon, and she’s just getting started. She made history at 12 as the youngest player to turn pro, a milestone that set the stage for her incredible rise. Introduced to pickleball by her grandfather during a family evacuation for Hurricane Irma in 2017, her tennis and soccer background laid the foundation for her electrifying game. Known for her insane speed, raw power, and razor-sharp strategy, Anna Leigh has become one of the sport's most dominant players.

Channel your inner champ with Anna Leigh Waters’ signature paddles—like the Paddletek Bantam ALW-C. Designed with power, precision, and her fearless style in mind, this paddle lets you step on the court ready to take over, just like ALW.

Fun Facts:

• Earned a spot on the Forbes 30 Under 30 list in 2022.
• Balances homeschooling with a grueling tournament schedule.
• Competes alongside her mom, Leigh Waters, a former Division I tennis player, in women’s doubles.

Career Achievements:

• Multiple PPA Triple Crowns: Dominated in singles, doubles, and mixed doubles.
• Six US Open Gold Medals: Golds in singles, doubles (with her mom), and mixed doubles.
• Six USAPA Nationals Gold Medals: Consistent champion at Nationals.
• Skechers Invitational (2022): First player to win a Triple Crown at this event.
• Highest-Paid Player (2024): Anna Leigh Waters’ net worth is over $3 million. 
• PPA North Carolina Open (2023): Won mixed doubles with Jack Sock in his pickleball debut.

Best Pro Pickleball Players

How exactly are these rankings determined? The systems used to rank top players combine points earned from tournament finishes, skill assessments, and their performance against strong competition. 

These rankings are constantly updated to provide an accurate reflection of each player’s current standing in the sport. Let’s talk about the systems that make it all possible.

Ranking Systems Explained 

Pro pickleball player rankings are largely determined by performance in major circuits such as the PPA (Professional Pickleball Association) and APP (Association of Pickleball Professionals). These leagues hold the most prestigious tournaments where players compete for points based on their finishes. The more high-level tournaments a player enters and performs well in, the higher their ranking.

Pro pickleball players earn points based on their performance in tournaments, and these rankings are updated regularly to reflect recent results. This means the rankings can shift quickly as players rise or fall depending on their form.

As of 2024, top players like Federico Staksrud, Ben Johns, and Anna Leigh Waters are consistently at the top of major tournaments. Both the PPA and APP circuits feature many of the same elite names. Keep an eye on the PPA and APP rankings, as they’re updated after each tournament, ensuring the best players are recognized across multiple platforms.

DUPR Ratings 

The DUPR (Dynamic Universal Pickleball Rating) system is an important tool used to rank players and assess their skill level across various pickleball formats. Unlike other rankings that focus primarily on tournament results, the DUPR is designed to give a holistic view of a player’s abilities.

What’s unique about the DUPR is that it’s accessible for amateur players as well, not just pros. We can teach you how to get a DUPR rating. It helps players of all levels understand where they stand and provides a more dynamic view of player skill that’s constantly updated based on their performance in tournaments or even recreational play. For the pros, a high DUPR rating signifies consistent dominance and an impressive skill set across all aspects of the game. 

Top Men's Pickleball Players

From seasoned legends to rising stars, these athletes continuously push the boundaries of the sport, setting new standards for performance and competition. The men’s pickleball scene is packed with powerhouse players who dominate the court with precision, speed, and strategy.

AJ Koller

AJ is a bold, dynamic presence on the pro pickleball tour. A former San Diego tennis player, he’s known for fearless shots, quick hands, and flashy net play in doubles. Off-court, he’s a mechanical engineer, F1 fan, and paddle tweaker who loves pushing the game’s limits.

Andrei Dăescu

Andrei Dăescu, aka "Andrei the Giant," is a 6'3" powerhouse with deep tennis roots, including a Davis Cup run and top 150 ATP doubles ranking. A former All-American at Oklahoma, he turned to pickleball in 2017, bringing big serves, sharp strategy, and serious intensity to the court.

Christian Alshon

Christian Alshon, a former No. 1 junior tennis player, burst onto the pickleball scene after leading the University of Chicago to an NCAA title. Since 2021, his explosive game, creative flair, and signature tweeners have made him a fan favorite and rising star.

Collin Johns

Collin Johns, the cerebral half of the Johns brothers duo, is known for his calm presence, surgical precision, and elite doubles strategy. A former pro tennis player and Maryland alum, he’s respected for his defense and data-driven play. Though he split from brother Ben in 2025, Collin remains a top doubles tactician.

Federico Staksrud 

Federico Staksrud, a former top junior tennis player from Buenos Aires, quickly rose to prominence in singles with smart, powerful baseline play. Since switching to pickleball in 2021, his strategic mindset and clutch performances have made him a consistent podium finisher. His ability to anticipate opponents' moves and execute precise shots has earned him recognition as a formidable competitor. In 2024, Federico secured his first PPA gold medal at the Arizona Grand Slam and achieved back-to-back silver medals at the PPA Masters and JW Marriott Desert Ridge Open. He has also been a consistent performer in Major League Pickleball events.

Gabriel "Gabe" Tardio

Born in 2005, Bolivian native Gabriel “Gabe” Tardio turned pro at 17 and quickly became known for his aggressive style and lethal Erne shots. Based in Jupiter, Florida, he’s already claimed major titles and beaten top talent. In 2024, Gabriel achieved significant milestones, including clinching three gold medals across the PPA Utah Open and PPA Las Vegas Cup. He also secured a men's doubles gold with Federico Staksrud at the PPA Kansas City Open, defeating top-seeded opponents. In 2025, he joined forces in pickleball doubles with the master himself, Ben Johns, and as of April 8th, 2025, he’s already won 2 PPA golds with him.

Hayden Patriquin

Born in 2005 in Ukiah, CA, Hayden Patriquin turned pro in 2022 and quickly made his mark with a powerful two-handed backhand and fearless style. A former baseball player, he’s known for his speed, flair, and sharp court sense.

JW Johnson

JW Johnson, a former tennis prodigy turned pickleball star, is known for his precision, court awareness, and stoic demeanor. Based in Florida, he excels in singles and doubles, often partnering with Dylan Frazier and sister Jorja Johnson. He and Jorja recently upset the unstoppable duo Ben Johns and Anna Leigh Waters with an incredible win on the PPA Tour. 

James Ignatowich

James Ignatowich, a 6'3" powerhouse from Connecticut, transitioned from D1 tennis at Vanderbilt to pickleball in 2022. Known for his powerful two-handed backhand and mental toughness, James is also a popular pickleball podcast host.

Jay Devilliers

Jay Devilliers, a global ambassador for pickleball, brings high-flying energy and international flair to the sport. A former soccer and tennis standout from France, Jay excels in both singles and doubles, thrilling fans with his highlight-reel plays.

Patrick Smith

Patrick Smith, a former D1 tennis player and MBA grad from Munich, Germany, turned pro in 2019 and quickly earned a reputation for his intensity, powerful volleys, and strategic play. Off the court, he’s the CEO of a robotic hair restoration company.

Quang Duong

Quang Duong, aka “Avatar,” quickly rose to prominence in pickleball after transitioning from elite junior tennis. Known for his explosive forehand and high-spin shots, he broke into the Top 20 singles rankings in 2024, securing a PPA gold and defeating Ben Johns twice. Quang was recently in the spotlight when Ben Johns unleashed a powerful shot that narrowly missed Quang’s head. Ben Johns' warning shot against Quang Duong led to heated discussions about player conduct and safety.

Riley Newman

Riley Newman is a net-dominant doubles specialist known for his quick reflexes and aggressive court presence. A former D1 basketball player, he transitioned to pickleball in 2017 and excelled alongside his sister, Lindsey. Riley’s elite athleticism, poaching skills, and tactical mind make him a consistent threat.

Thomas Wilson

Thomas Wilson, a former collegiate tennis player, turned pro in pickleball in 2021. Known for his quick hands, strong groundstrokes, and competitive drive, he excels in doubles while balancing family and a corporate career.

Tyson McGuffin

Tyson McGuffin brings wrestling swagger and high energy to pickleball. Known for powerful serves, intense rallies, and crowd engagement, Tyson shines in singles and doubles. He's also a sought-after coach, camp host, and motivational speaker.

Zane Navratil

Zane Navratil is a pickleball innovator, known for his game-changing "chainsaw serve" that led to rule changes. A former Deloitte accountant turned full-time pro, he’s a four-time MLP champ and standout singles player. Zane combines lightning footwork with strategic play and passion.

Top Women’s Pickleball Players

The women’s pickleball circuit showcases fierce competitors who bring passion, agility, and masterful skills to every match. These top players not only excel on the court but also inspire the next generation of athletes with their dedication and innovative play.

Anna Bright

Anna Bright, a former collegiate tennis player from Los Angeles, quickly rose to prominence in pickleball after discovering the sport in 2021. Known for her aggressive baseline play, quick reflexes, and clutch moments in doubles, Anna earned a PPA Gold Medal in 2023 and MVP honors at the 2023 MLP Atlanta event. She's passionate about growing the sport and mentoring young athletes. She just joined forces in pickleball doubles with the best women’s pickleball player, Anna Leigh Waters.

Catherine Parenteau

Catherine Parenteau, a former NCAA tennis standout from Michigan State, is known for her strategic play, sharp angles, and precise shot placement. Introduced to pickleball in 2016 by Simone Jardim, she excels in doubles, winning multiple titles with Anna Leigh Waters. Recently, Parenteau and Waters split on good terms. A passionate animal welfare advocate, Catherine also holds a US Open Gold in Women’s Doubles and Singles (2021).

Etta Wright

Etta Wright, a Tongan-American professional pickleball player, combines her diverse sports background with strong net play and defense. A former Division II tennis player at BYU-Hawaii, she turned pro in 2022. Known for her athleticism, she secured multiple medals in her first year and won a Major League Pickleball title with Ben Johns. Etta is also passionate about languages and British TV.

Jackie Kawamoto

Jackie Kawamoto, a doubles specialist, is known for her precision and tactical intelligence. A former Division I tennis player at the University of Dayton, she and her twin sister Jade quickly transitioned to pickleball in 2019. Jackie has won multiple professional titles, including the 2023 Beer City Open Women’s Pro Doubles and 2022 MLP Newport Championship. She also works full-time at the NCAA and supports Alzheimer’s research through pickleball tournaments.

Jorja Johnson

Jorja Johnson, a rising star in pickleball, is known for her aggressive play and rapid success. From Kansas, she moved to Florida in 2019 to support her brother JW's tennis training and discovered pickleball. Since turning pro in 2021, she’s amassed numerous medals, including the youngest-ever Triple Crown at the 2023 APP Sacramento Open. Jorja is a fan favorite, known for her clutch performances in Major League Pickleball.

Lea Jansen

Lea Jansen, a former competitive tennis player from Austin, Texas, transitioned to pickleball in 2019 after injuries ended her tennis career. Known for her aggressive play and mental toughness, Lea excels in singles with powerful drives and relentless attacks. She has earned multiple PPA golds and a silver at the 2021 US Open. Fun facts: Lea meditates before matches and enjoys crime documentaries.

Leigh Waters

Leigh Waters, a former collegiate tennis player, transitioned to pickleball in 2017 and quickly became a key figure in the sport. Known for her defensive skills and tactical play, she formed the iconic mother-daughter duo with her daughter, Anna Leigh Waters. Leigh has multiple U.S. Open golds, 8 PPA titles, and is dedicated to mentoring young players, coaching Alshon and her daughter.

Parris Todd

Parris Todd, a former junior tennis champion from Laguna Beach, transitioned to pickleball in 2022 after injury setbacks. Known for her versatility, calm demeanor, and adaptability, she quickly became one of the sport's top talents. Parris has earned over 40 medals and won a Triple Crown at the 2023 US Open, capturing gold in singles, doubles, and mixed doubles.

Simone Jardim

Simone Jardim, a former All-American tennis player from Brazil, is a pickleball legend, transitioning to the sport in 2015. Known for her versatility, court awareness, and strategic play, she has earned numerous titles, including multiple US Open golds. Simone was ranked No. 1 from 2016 to 2020 and achieved the triple crown in 2017 and 2018. She now mentors rising stars and runs a pickleball academy.

Tina Pisnik

Tina Pisnik, a former top-30 tennis player from Slovenia, transitioned to pickleball after retiring from professional tennis in 2005. A skilled doubles player in tennis, she has quickly made an impact in pickleball, winning a gold medal in Mixed Doubles at the APP Chicago and a silver at the Vulcan Tournament of Champions. Tina now resides in Bradenton, Florida.

11 PICKLES—For Amateurs, Intermediates, and Pros Alike

At 11 PICKLES, we’re your go-to source for everything pickleball, whether you’re just starting out or looking for expert-level tips. From keeping you up to date on the latest pro news and rankings to offering beginner guides and advanced techniques, we cover it all. 

Watching the pros isn’t just about the trophies; it’s about learning how they make their movements look effortless and how their strategies become second nature. Pickleball is a sport for everyone, and we’re here to help you enjoy the game and improve your skills. So stay tuned with our newsletter & check out our latest products to keep in the loop with all things pickleball.

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