In a move that sent ripples through the pickleball world, Collin and Ben Johns — the most iconic sibling duo in the sport’s history — have announced their retirement from professional competition. With a partnership built on trust, precision, and an almost telepathic connection on the court, the brothers are bowing out at the pinnacle of their careers, leaving behind a legacy that redefined the doubles game.
Their announcement came during a press conference following their final match at the PPA Finals, where the brothers took a moment to reflect on their journey. “It’s been an incredible ride,” Ben said, emotion in his voice. “Playing with Collin has been one of the greatest honors of my life. We’ve accomplished everything we set out to do — and more.”
**The Making of Legends**
Collin and Ben Johns didn’t just play pickleball — they elevated it. Ben, the younger of the two, rose to become the sport’s most dominant singles player before turning his focus to doubles, where his partnership with Collin proved virtually unstoppable. Their synergy on the court was unmatched, blending Ben’s aggressive shot-making and court awareness with Collin’s steadiness, strategic patience, and defensive prowess.
They began their professional run in earnest in the late 2010s, at a time when pickleball was still carving out its identity as a legitimate, competitive sport. Through tireless training and a relentless pursuit of excellence, the Johns brothers helped usher in a new era — one marked by athleticism, professionalism, and mainstream recognition.
**An Era of Dominance**
Together, the Johns brothers accumulated dozens of titles across the PPA and APP tours, setting records for consecutive finals appearances and victories. Their dominance was not merely statistical but stylistic: they brought a cerebral, chess-like approach to doubles play, controlling tempo, dictating pace, and often dismantling opponents with surgical precision.
Off the court, they became ambassadors for the sport. Their visibility and success helped fuel pickleball’s explosive growth, attracting new fans, sponsors, and aspiring players from all corners of the globe. Ben’s signature paddle line became a bestseller, and Collin’s involvement in player development has left a lasting imprint on the next generation.
**Why Now?**
The decision to retire, the brothers explained, was not made lightly. “We both knew this chapter couldn’t last forever,” Collin said. “We wanted to leave the game while still performing at our best — and to go out together.”
Their choice reflects a desire to pursue new ventures and personal goals. Ben has expressed interest in business and entrepreneurship, while Collin is expected to focus on coaching and mentoring young talent within the sport. Both have hinted at staying involved in pickleball in various capacities, though no formal plans have been announced.
The departure of Collin and Ben Johns marks the end of an era — not just for pickleball, but for the unique brand of excellence and brotherhood they brought to the game. Their story will be told as one of mutual respect, family loyalty, and a shared vision that transformed them into household names in one of America’s fastest-growing sports.
Fans across the country are already celebrating their careers with tribute videos, social media montages, and packed farewell matches. While the curtain may be closing on their professional playing days, the legacy of the Johns brothers will continue to resonate on courts everywhere — in every controlled drop shot, every strategic dink, and every duo that dares to dream as big as they did.