Ben and Collin Johns’ Withdrawal from MLP Columbus Sparks Major Controversy in Pickleball Community
The Major League Pickleball (MLP) Columbus leg took a dramatic turn when star player Ben Johns and his brother Collin Johns withdrew just before their scheduled men’s doubles match, citing concerns over artificial lighting at the Pickle and Chill indoor facility in Ohio. Their decision has triggered a significant debate in the pickleball community, dividing fans and players alike.
Ben Johns Cites Eye Condition and Lighting Concerns
Ben Johns, widely regarded as the greatest pickleball player, has struggled with an eye ailment since childhood. He expressed that the indoor facility’s artificial lighting posed a risk to his health and performance. He emphasized that the decision was a precautionary measure to prevent injury.
“I have made it clear to MLP that if we played outside or if the lighting were improved I would be more than happy to play the rest of the weekend,” Ben wrote in a post on X and IG.
Impact on Carolina Hogs and Fan Disappointment
The sudden withdrawal left their team, the Carolina Hogs, at a severe disadvantage during a crucial tie against the Phoenix Flames. The move also left fans disheartened, many of whom were eagerly anticipating seeing the star duo in action.
Backlash from the Pickleball Community
The decision sparked a flurry of reactions from fellow pros. Zane Navratil was among the first to call for Ben Johns’ suspension from the PPA Tour, arguing that such last-minute withdrawals undermined the integrity of the sport and disrespected fans.
“This sets a terrible precedent,” Navratil said. “You can’t just walk away from matches whenever something isn’t perfect.”
Travis Rettenmaier, a former tennis pro turned pickleball player, echoed this criticism with even stronger words.
“How about the fans? Do they deserve a refund?” Rettenmaier posted.
“You are killing me, Dekel Bar. Usually, you are sensible. You have played Futures, Challengers, as have Nadal and Djokovic, in FAR worse conditions… Can you imagine them not trying and then blaming their poor behavior on exterior variables?”
He further stated:
“WE OWE PICKLE, not the other way around… Actions have consequences — or at least they should.”
Dekel Bar Defends Ben Johns, Calls for Safer Conditions
On the other side of the debate, fellow pro Dekel Bar came to Ben’s defense. In a detailed Instagram post, he argued for the need to establish minimum safety standards, such as:
- Adequate lighting
- Court spacing
- Guidelines for wind conditions
- Drug testing
- Optimized court colors
“Let’s prioritize players’ needs to fuel pickleball’s growth and protect the people dedicating their lives to the sport,” Bar wrote.
Heated Exchange Between Rettenmaier and Bar
Rettenmaier, however, wasn’t convinced. In a strongly worded rebuttal, he criticized Bar’s defense, referencing the tough conditions in professional tennis and drawing comparisons to legends like Nadal, Djokovic, and Federer.
“You are killing me, Dekel Bar… Can you imagine them not trying and then blaming their poor behavior/antics on exterior variables?”
He added that professional players, especially those earning near eight figures, owe their dedication to the sport, not the other way around.
Should MLP Take Disciplinary Action?
While some are calling for disciplinary action, it’s important to note that player safety and choice must come first. The right to withdraw from a match remains with the player. However, MLP may need to issue clearer policies regarding such decisions to avoid future confusion and disappointment.
A League Already Under Scrutiny
MLP is already dealing with ongoing controversies, including a recent incident where Hayden Patriquin and Kate Fahey were caught on camera using explicit language toward opponents Anna Leigh Waters and Federico Staksrud. Such behavior demands disciplinary action, unlike the Johns brothers’ more nuanced decision to prioritize health and safety.
Final Thoughts
The Ben and Collin Johns withdrawal incident has exposed a rift in the pickleball world, highlighting a debate between professionalism, fan service, and athlete welfare. Whether you support their decision or oppose it, the incident serves as a wake-up call for MLP and the broader pickleball ecosystem to establish clearer standards for competition, conduct, and safety.
As the sport continues its meteoric rise, it must balance its growing popularity with the well-being of its players—the very individuals who have helped build pickleball into the phenomenon it is today.
