For years, Ben Johns has been the undisputed king of professional pickleball. His name has been synonymous with dominance, precision, and poise on the court. But every era eventually meets its turning point, and 2025 may well mark the end of the Johns dynasty. Enter Federico Staksrud—a rising force whose relentless drive and recent performances are turning heads and shifting expectations across the sport.
At just 28, Staksrud has exploded onto the scene with a combination of raw athleticism and calculated finesse that has rattled even the most seasoned pros. While Johns has long relied on his strategic mind and calm demeanor to dismantle opponents, Staksrud brings a different flavor—an aggressive, high-energy style of play that has proven increasingly difficult to contain.
In the past six months, Staksrud has not only consistently finished on the podium but has also started to overtake Johns in head-to-head matchups. His victories are no longer seen as upsets—they’re anticipated. Most recently, in a packed championship final in Austin, Staksrud delivered a commanding performance against Johns, winning in straight games and asserting himself as a genuine contender for the sport’s top ranking.
What sets Staksrud apart is more than just power or speed—though he has plenty of both. It’s his adaptability. Analysts have noted his rapidly improving shot selection, smart court positioning, and a mental toughness that belies his relative newcomer status. He studies his opponents meticulously, often exploiting their smallest weaknesses. Against Johns, this meant neutralizing the serve-and-volley game that once seemed unbreakable.
Off the court, Staksrud’s rise is revitalizing fan engagement. With his charismatic presence, social media savviness, and international appeal—he hails from Argentina—he’s helping pickleball expand its global footprint. Tournaments are seeing increased international participation and interest, and much of that surge can be traced to the buzz around Staksrud’s rise.
Still, dethroning a legend is never simple. Johns remains a formidable opponent, and his recent comments suggest he’s not ready to cede his crown without a fight. “Everyone has their moment,” Johns said after the Austin loss. “Federico is playing incredible pickleball. But I’m not done.” The statement was respectful but firm—a sign that this rivalry is far from over.
Yet, the winds of change are blowing. The sport itself is evolving. As pickleball grows in popularity, the influx of younger, faster, and more global talent is accelerating. Staksrud’s emergence is emblematic of that shift. He represents not just a new top player, but a new era of pickleball—more dynamic, diverse, and unpredictable.
Whether he officially takes over the No. 1 ranking in the coming weeks or not, one thing is clear: Federico Staksrud is no longer the future of the sport—he is the present. And with every blistering forehand and every well-placed drop shot, he is writing the next chapter of pickleball history.
For fans, it’s an exciting time. The passing of the torch, if it is indeed happening, is not a quiet one. It’s dramatic, filled with tension and spectacular rallies. And while Ben Johns may yet have more victories ahead, the rise of Federico Staksrud signals a changing of the guard—a fresh face ready to carry pickleball into its next golden age.