In a recent episode of the PicklePod podcast, Collin Johns shed light on the reasons behind the split with his brother, Ben, ending their reign as the top-ranked pickleball doubles team. According to Collin, the decision was the culmination of an ongoing conversation, with the pair acknowledging that they weren't performing at the level they knew they could. He mentioned that the evolving landscape of pickleball, particularly changes in paddle technology, necessitated a constant update to their strategies. Collin explained that they adapted by switching to the Gen 3 S paddle, however, the need to continually adjust their gameplay was a key factor in their decision to separate.
Collin emphasized that the split was a mutual decision, and not a result of any animosity. In fact, he stated that they were both excited to play with other partners and that the change would be good for their individual games and mental health. He also noted that separating their relationship as brothers from their on-court partnership was important at this point in their careers. Despite the split, Collin affirmed his commitment to the sport, stating that he is still enjoying competing and training and is not planning on stepping back from professional play. The brothers ended their partnership on a high note with a win at the Masters tournament.
Pickleball's "Headhunting" Debate Explodes: Johns Brothers at Center of Controversy Over Unwritten Rules
A recent incident involving Ben Johns has ignited a debate within the pickleball community about the unwritten rules of "pegging," or hitting the ball directly at an opponent. On the PicklePod podcast, Collin Johns addressed the controversy, explaining that while "pegging" at an opponent's body is generally accepted, aiming for the head, or "headhunting," is considered dangerous and disrespectful. He stated that Ben’s shot at Quang Duong was a "warning" after Duong had repeatedly hit at the brothers' bodies. Collin noted that newer players may not be aware of this unwritten rule.
Collin emphasized that powerful paddles have made pegging easier and more dangerous, leading to concerns about safety. He said that the unwritten rule is a "gentleman's agreement" to keep the game safe and prevent it from becoming a "dodgeball" style sport. He also acknowledged the risks associated with powerful shots and the need for protective eyewear. While Collin doesn't want pegging to be removed from the game, he feels it needs to be done with respect and within the bounds of player safety. He believes that Ben's controversial shot was intended to send a message, not to injure Duong, and that it was a reaction to Duong's repeated body shots.
UK Gears Up for Pickleball Grand Prix: British Tournament to Feature Top Tier Competition and a Music Festival
The ONE British Pickleball Grand Prix (GP) is set to take place in the UK, with qualifiers on May 31st and June 1st at K2 Crawley, followed by the Grand Finals at Surrey Sports Park on July 26th and 27th, 2025. The tournament is designed to bring together experienced players, high-level competitors, and professionals to celebrate the sport of pickleball. The event welcomes both junior and international players.
The Grand Prix qualifiers will feature round-robin matches and knockout stages. The winners will advance to the Grand Finals, where they will compete for a share of a £10,000 prize pool. The finals will also utilize a double-elimination format.
Beyond the sport, the Grand Finals Weekend will include a festival called P1AY, featuring live music with DJ sets and performances from nine tribute acts, as well as fitness challenges like 5K, 10K, and Half Marathon races. The tournament will use a DUPR (Dynamic Universal Pickleball Rating) system for defining divisions. Spectators are welcome to attend the qualifiers free of charge. The tournament aims to be more than just a competition by creating a community event with an emphasis on both sports and entertainment.
Roddick to Agassi: "I'm Coming for You!" Tennis Legend Seeks Revenge After Pickleball Partnership Dump, $1 Million on the Line
Former tennis star Andy Roddick has issued a playful but stern warning to Andre Agassi ahead of their clash at the Pickleball Slam 3. Roddick is seeking revenge after being "dumped" by Agassi as a pickleball partner. Roddick humorously expressed his frustration, stating, "Who wins and then gets dumped?" He also made light of Agassi’s age, joking about his social security status.
The Pickleball Slam 3, set to take place in Los Angeles, will see Roddick team up with Eugenie Bouchard to face Agassi and his wife, Steffi Graf. The event isn't just about settling scores; a hefty $1 million prize is also at stake. Roddick is approaching the event with a mix of determination and worry, stating, "I worry the most about myself on the court," and expressing concerns about letting his doubles partner, Bouchard, down.
The two tennis legends previously partnered in an exhibition doubles match at the Cincinnati Open in 2024, which makes Roddick's feelings of betrayal even stronger. Now, Roddick is set on getting back at Agassi on the pickleball court. The event is scheduled for February 16th and will be streamed live on ESPN.
Bollywood Meets Backhands: India's Inaugural Pickleball League Launches with Celebrity Owners and FanCode Streaming
The highly anticipated World Pickleball League (WPL) has officially launched in Mumbai, India, bringing a fusion of sport and entertainment to the historic Brabourne Stadium. The league, which runs from January 24th to February 2nd, 2025, is not just about pickleball; it’s a star-studded event with celebrity team owners and live performances.
The WPL features six teams, including the Chennai Super Champs owned by actress Samantha Ruth Prabhu, the Bengaluru Jawans co-owned by director Atlee and his wife Priya Atlee, and Pune United co-owned by actors Riteish and Genelia Deshmukh. Team Mumbai is owned by Swiggy. The league is designed to provide an "unparalleled spectacle" of sport and entertainment.
Matches will be streamed exclusively on FanCode, a leading digital sports platform, making the league accessible to a wide audience across India. The WPL has also partnered with Swiggy Scenes for ticket sales, allowing fans to purchase tickets through the platform. The opening day featured a Maharashtra derby between Mumbai Pickle Power and Pune United, as well as a southern derby between Bengaluru Jawans and Chennai Super Champs. In addition to the intense pickleball action, fans will be treated to live performances by popular artists like Dhvani Bhanushali and The Yellow Diary.
Staksrud Strikes Deal With Adidas: Pickleball's Top-Ranked Star to Launch Signature Paddle
Federico Staksrud, the world's number-one ranked pickleball player in both men's singles and doubles on the PPA Tour, has announced a partnership with Adidas, which will include the launch of his signature paddle this spring. Staksrud stated that this collaboration is more than just a sponsorship and that it represents "a shared vision for the future of the sport,". He added that he is excited to work with Adidas to set a new standard for pickleball equipment.
The new paddle is said to reflect Staksrud's playing style and his commitment to innovation. Bryan Ogle, Chief Commercial Officer of All Racquet Sports, explained that Adidas is utilizing its expertise in sports equipment to enter the pickleball market. Adidas sees pickleball as a way to reach a new demographic as it appeals to people of all ages and physical abilities.
This partnership marks a significant move for Adidas, indicating their intent to become a major brand in the pickleball world at both the professional and amateur levels. The deal with Staksrud, a top-tier player, will likely raise Adidas’s profile in the sport.