Who are truly the best pickleball players dominating the courts this past year? With unprecedented parity in professional pickleball and weekly ranking shifts on the PPA Tour, this question has become increasingly complex to answer. Gone are the days when a single player could claim undisputed dominance, as emerging talents and established champions battle for supremacy across men’s singles, doubles, and mixed doubles events.
From Ben Johns’ continued excellence to Federico Staksrud’s meteoric rise, the landscape of elite pickleball has never been more competitive or compelling. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive deep into current PPA Tour rankings, analyze the metrics that define greatness on the court, and reveal how the best pickleball players are setting new standards in North America’s fastest-growing sport.
The Ever-Changing Landscape of Best Pickleball Players
A New Era of Competition
The professional pickleball scene has transformed dramatically, with unprecedented parity among top players. The days of single-player dominance have given way to fierce competition, as multiple athletes vie for supremacy across different events and formats.
Rankings Explained
Professional pickleball rankings incorporate:
• Tour results and points races
• Gender-specific doubles performance (weighted at 70%)
• Mixed doubles results (weighted at 30%)
• PPA Tour outcomes (prioritized over MLP)
Today’s Elite Competitors
Current Top Contenders
The men’s professional circuit features established stars and rising talent, including:
• Ben Johns
• Federico Staksrud
• Andrei Daescu
• Christian Alshon
• JW Johnson
Success Factors
Elite players distinguish themselves through:
• Consistent performance across events
• Excellence in both singles and doubles play
• Strong recent tournament results
• Adaptability to different partners and formats
Understanding Professional Rankings
Ranking Criteria
Rankings reflect:
• Tournament victories
• Head-to-head results
• Performance consistency
• Event difficulty levels
Following the Leaders
To track the best pickleball players:
• Monitor official PPA Tour standings
• Follow expert-curated ranking lists
• Consider both singles and doubles results
• Watch for mid-season momentum shifts
Equipment Insights from the Pros
Paddle Selection Guidelines
Key considerations include:
• Balance between power and control
• Advanced face materials (graphite, carbon fiber)
• Core composition (polymer, Nomex)
• Grip comfort and size
Material Benefits
Different paddle materials offer unique advantages:
• Graphite/Carbon Fiber: Enhanced responsiveness
• Composite/Fiberglass: Increased power
• Polymer Core: Improved control
• Medium Weight: Better overall balance
Common Misconceptions
Rankings Reality
Important clarifications:
• Singles success doesn’t guarantee doubles excellence
• PPA Tour results often carry more weight than MLP
• Rankings can shift significantly throughout the season
Equipment Myths
Avoid these equipment mistakes:
• Choosing paddles solely based on weight
• Ignoring grip comfort and security
• Overlooking paddle balance and feel
Professional Development Resources
Tracking Progress
Stay informed through:
• Official tour standings
• Expert analysis updates
• Mid-season performance reviews
• Equipment evolution insights
For personalized guidance on improving your game and equipment selection, visit Pickleball Athletic Club or connect with our experts at /contact/.
