Ben Johns
Ben Johns β "The GOAT" β is a USA professional pickleball player known for a all-around game. Born in 1999, Ben is around 27 years old and hails from Laytonsville, MD. Ben is ranked #1 men's in singles and #1 men's doubles (longtime). Ben plays with the JOOLA Perseus and is sponsored by JOOLA. Ben stands 6'1" (185 cm).
Quick facts
- Nickname
- βThe GOATβ
- Country
- πΊπΈ USA
- Hometown
- Laytonsville, MD
- Age
- ~27 (born 1999)
- Height
- 6'1" (185 cm)
- Playing style
- All-around
- Singles rank
- #1 men's
- Doubles rank
- #1 men's doubles (longtime)
- Paddle
- JOOLA Perseus
- Sponsor
- JOOLA
- Turned pro
- 2016
About Ben
The undisputed architect of modern pickleball. Ben Johns held the #1 ranking in singles, doubles, AND mixed doubles simultaneously β a feat no other player has achieved. His two-handed backhand and ability to control the pace of any rally make him nearly impossible to game-plan against.
Career highlights
- βΊ100+ PPA gold medals β the most of any player in history (until ALW surpassed in 2026)
- βΊ21 Triple Crowns β gold in singles, doubles, and mixed at the same event
- βΊ108-match singles win streak β the all-time record
Fun fact
Ben has a degree in Materials Science & Engineering from the University of Maryland. He turned down a career in engineering to pursue pickleball full-time β a bet that paid off spectacularly.
Ben Johns β frequently asked questions
How old is Ben Johns?+
Ben Johns was born in 1999, making Ben around 27 years old (Ben is from Laytonsville, MD).
What paddle does Ben Johns use?+
Ben Johns plays with the JOOLA Perseus, as part of a sponsorship with JOOLA.
Who sponsors Ben Johns?+
Ben Johns is sponsored by JOOLA.
How tall is Ben Johns?+
Ben Johns is 6'1" (185 cm) tall.
What is Ben Johns's ranking?+
Ben Johns is ranked #1 men's in singles and #1 men's doubles (longtime) on the pro tour.
When did Ben Johns turn pro?+
Ben Johns turned professional in 2016.
Play like the pros
How to Improve at Pickleball: Advice from the Pros
The fastest path to a better rating isn't more open play β it's deliberate drilling. Here's what the pros actually practice, and how to build the habits that unlock the next level.
Read guide βHow to Choose Your First Pickleball Paddle
Weight, core, face material, shape, thickness β every spec that matters for a first paddle, explained without the jargon.
Read guide βThe Third Shot Drop: Pickleball's Most Important Shot
Why does every coach say the third shot drop is the most important shot in the game? Here's the strategic logic and the mechanics to execute it.
Read guide β