Ben and Collin Johns Split After Dominating Pickleball for Four Years

After four incredible years of dominance, Ben and Collin Johns, the most successful partnership in professional pickleball, have decided to part ways. Together, the brothers amassed an impressive 33 gold medals and 43 total podium finishes, solidifying themselves as the #1 men’s doubles team for the majority of their tenure. With a staggering 74% podium percentage and a 56% title-winning percentage, their partnership will be remembered as one of the most prolific in the sport’s history.

Despite ending 2024 as the top-ranked team, the Johns brothers mutually and amicably decided to explore new partnerships moving into 2025. This decision, made within the family before being announced publicly, aims to bring a fresh perspective and renewed energy to their careers.

Ben Johns Reflects on the Decision

“We’ve achieved so much as a team, and I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve accomplished,” said Ben. “Change can be a refreshing thing, both in life and in sports. We believe this decision will help us find new purpose, create variety, and reengage with the sport we love. This isn’t necessarily a permanent split—it’s a healthy adjustment. We’ll always be brothers first, and our pickleball legacy will remain intertwined.”

What’s Next for Ben and Collin?

Ben Johns, known for his unmatched versatility and skill on the court, is rumored to be exploring partnerships with top players such as Gabe Tardio, Hayden Patriquin, Dylan Frazier, or others. However, several of these players already have commitments, adding complexity to the mix.

Meanwhile, Collin Johns is eyeing collaborations with experienced players like Jay Devilliers, Andrei Daescu, or Dekel Bar, as well as newer names such as Jack Sock, Jaume Martinez Vich, or Noe Khlif.

The brothers are still signed up to compete together in the prestigious 2025 Masters, which could mark their final tournament as a team. Additionally, they need to decide on their training bases, as practicing with new partners will require careful planning.

Signs of Change in 2024

While the Johns brothers had another strong year, leading the tour with seven gold medals, there were visible signs of strain. Increased competition and evolving styles of play tested their partnership. Negative body language, frustration, and reduced on-court communication hinted at underlying challenges.

One standout moment in 2024 was their victory at the CIBC Atlanta Slam. Despite Ben rolling his ankle during the tournament, Collin stepped up to cover more of the court, showcasing a different dynamic. The brothers secured the title with a commanding 11-4, 11-0, 6-11, 11-4 win over Tyson McGuffin and Jaume Martinez Vich. However, the effort required to achieve such results became increasingly taxing, and the duo struggled to maintain consistency in the latter half of the season.

Career Highlights: Ben and Collin Johns

  • Men’s Doubles Career Gold Medals:
    43 – Ben Johns
    33 – Collin Johns
    18 – Matt Wright
    14 – Riley Newman
    10 – Dylan Frazier
    10 – JW Johnson
  • Top Men’s Doubles Teams by Career Gold Medals:
    33 – Ben & Collin Johns
    10 – Frazier/Johnson
    8 – Newman/Wright
    8 – Ben Johns/Wright
    3 – Newman/McGuffin
    3 – Patriquin/Staksrud
  • Yearly Breakdown of Gold Medals (Ben & Collin Johns):
    • 2024: 7 golds, 2 silvers, 0 bronzes (20 tournaments)
    • 2023: 12 golds, 1 silver, 0 bronzes (16 tournaments)
    • 2022: 10 golds, 4 silvers, 0 bronzes (15 tournaments)
    • 2021: 4 golds, 1 silver, 2 bronzes (7 tournaments)
  • Total Stats:
    • 33 golds, 8 silvers, 2 bronzes (43 medals)
    • 58 tournaments
    • 74% podium percentage
    • 56% gold percentage

Legacy and Future Prospects

As the brothers move forward, their accomplishments will continue to inspire the pickleball world. Whether they reunite in the future or carve out individual successes with new partners, Ben and Collin’s legacy as one of the sport’s greatest duos is firmly established.

Their split signals an exciting new chapter, not just for them but for pickleball fans worldwide, as the competition in 2025 promises to be more dynamic than ever.

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