Ben Johns Rallies to Win Men’s Singles Title at Humana
After a 1-1 record in mixed and men’s doubles finals, Ben Johns returned to Humana Championship Court for one final match — and made it count. The No. 4 seed delivered a stunning comeback victory over No. 3 seed Connor Garnett, winning 3-11, 11-9, 11-9 to claim the men’s singles title in the Georgia capital.
Garnett appeared in full control early, racing to a 5-1 lead in Game 2 after dominating the first with a series of sharp, accurate passing shots. But Johns responded by shifting the tempo, drawing Garnett into slower-paced, strategic rallies that turned the tide of the match.
Johns earned his first match point at 10-6 in the final game, ultimately converting on his fourth opportunity to seal the win. After defending an ATP into the open court, he let out a rare, emotional yell — a glimpse into the physical and mental toll of the intense battle.
“Connor gets to everything and makes you hit so many balls, so I was just exhausted at the end. I think that’s what brought the emotion out of me,” Johns said in his post-match interview. “A lot of people say that you can’t do it without the crowd, and this time it was really true. I was just so exhausted, and they helped a lot.”
Despite the loss, Garnett remained positive about his performance and his first Championship Sunday appearance of 2025.
“I’m stoked to be playing well, and the energy was electric out here,” he shared. “It’s always fun having battles with great players. Obviously not the result I wanted, but all kudos to Ben. He really went out there and took it.”
In the bronze medal match, No. 2 seed Hunter Johnson defeated No. 8 seed Dylan Frazier, finishing with a solid 11-2, 11-7 victory.
