In a surprising turn of events, professional pickleball star Ben Johns has been suspended from his team following a contentious withdrawal from the Major League Pickleball (MLP) event in Columbus, Ohio. The incident has sparked widespread debate within the pickleball community, raising questions about player safety, league policies, and the responsibilities of top athletes.([The Dink Pickleball][1])
During the MLP Columbus event in early May 2025, Ben and his brother Collin Johns, both prominent figures in the sport, withdrew from the tournament after just one match. Their decision was based on concerns over inadequate lighting at the venue, which Ben claimed posed a risk to player safety. He cited his own vision impairment, resulting from a childhood sledding accident, as a factor that made the subpar lighting conditions particularly hazardous for him. Ben’s concerns were validated when he measured the lighting levels on the court and found them to be approximately one-third of those in professional tennis venues, which he argued was insufficient for safe play .([The Dink Pickleball][2], [The Conway Bulletin][3], [The Dink Pickleball][1])
Despite receiving permission from MLP officials to withdraw, the aftermath of the decision has been contentious. The Carolina Hogs, the team representing Ben and Collin, suffered a series of losses in the remaining matches, leading to criticism from fans and fellow players who questioned the timing and legitimacy of the withdrawal .([The Dink Pickleball][2], [The Dink Pickleball][1])
**League’s Response and Suspension**
Following the withdrawal, the United Pickleball Association (UPA) conducted a review of the circumstances surrounding the event. While acknowledging the lighting issues, the UPA determined that Ben’s performance during the match against the Atlanta Bouncers was subpar, leading to accusations of tanking. In response, the league imposed a suspension on Ben Johns, citing the need to uphold the integrity of the sport and ensure that all players compete to the best of their abilities .([The Dink Pickleball][1], [The Dink Pickleball][4])
**Community Reaction**
The suspension has divided the pickleball community. Supporters of Ben argue that his health and safety should take precedence, especially given his documented medical condition. They contend that the league should have taken more proactive measures to address the lighting deficiencies at the venue. Conversely, critics assert that professional athletes have a responsibility to compete at the highest level and that withdrawing mid-tournament undermines the credibility of the sport.([The Dink Pickleball][1])
Prominent players such as Zane Navratil have publicly criticized Ben’s actions, suggesting that his performance during the match was intentionally lackluster. Navratil’s comments have fueled further debate about the standards expected of top-tier athletes and the consequences of not meeting those expectations .([The Dink Pickleball][4])
**Looking Ahead**
The suspension of Ben Johns serves as a pivotal moment for professional pickleball. It underscores the delicate balance between player welfare and the demands of competitive sports. As the league moves forward, it faces the challenge of implementing policies that protect players’ health while maintaining the integrity and excitement of the game.([ussportupdate][5])
For Ben Johns, the road ahead involves addressing the concerns raised by the suspension and working towards rebuilding his reputation within the sport. His future in professional pickleball may hinge on his ability to navigate these challenges and demonstrate a commitment to both his personal well-being and the standards of the league.
As discussions continue, the pickleball community remains divided, reflecting the broader complexities of balancing athlete health with the expectations of professional sports.
[1]: https://www.thedinkpickleball.com/exclusive-pardoe-opens-up-about-the-johns-bros-pulling-out-of-mlp/?utm_source=chatgpt.com “Exclusive: Pardoe Opens Up About the Johns Bros Pulling Out of MLP”
[2]: https://www.thedinkpickleball.com/ben-johns-agrees-to-forfeit-60k-for-mlp-columbus-withdrawal/?utm_source=chatgpt.com “Ben Johns Agrees to Forfeit $60k for MLP Columbus Withdrawal”
[3]: https://theconwaybulletin.com/news/usa-pickleball-news/mlp-news/171139/ben-johns-and-collin-johns-forfeit-2025-mlp-columbus-winnings-after-shocking-mid-tournament-exit-over-safety-concerns/?utm_source=chatgpt.com “Ben Johns and Collin Johns Forfeit 2025 MLP Columbus Winnings After Shocking Mid-Tournament Exit Over Safety Concerns”
[4]: https://www.thedinkpickleball.com/johns-brothers-address-players-react-controversial-mlp-withdrawal/?utm_source=chatgpt.com “Johns Brothers Address, Players React: Controversial MLP Withdrawal”