Pickleball is no longer just a backyard pastime, it’s one of the fastest-growing professional sports in the U.S., with tournaments, passionate fans, and professional athletes taking the game to new heights. At the center of it all is the Carvana PPA Tour, where the world’s best pickleball players compete in electrifying matches filled with athleticism, strategy, and skill.
Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the sport, here’s your guide to the biggest storylines, players to watch, and can’t-miss events on the 2025 PPA Tour.
Sacramento Vintage Open
📍 Life Time Arden | Sacramento, CA
📅 September 24–28, 2025
The Pickleball Central Sacramento Vintage Open is where the past and future of pickleball collide. This nostalgic stop on the PPA Tour features exhibition matches with classic wooden paddles, blending tradition with today’s modern competitive edge.
Fans can expect a variety of events, from singles to doubles, in both men’s and women’s divisions. A weeklong pass grants access to every match, while children 8 and under can attend for free, making it one of the most family-friendly pickleball events on the tour.
With its unique theme and energetic atmosphere, the Sacramento Vintage Open isn’t just about competition; it’s about celebrating the culture and community of pickleball.
The Stars Defining the PPA Tour
Every great sport has its icons, and pickleball is no different. On the 2025 PPA Tour, a select group of athletes consistently rise above the competition, not just collecting medals, but shaping how the game is played, perceived, and celebrated. From record-setting veterans to fearless young challengers, these are the players driving pickleball’s evolution.
Ben Johns: The Benchmark of Professional Pickleball
Ben Johns has solidified his reputation as the greatest pickleball player of all time. With a DUPR rating around 7.347, he continues to dominate across singles, doubles, and mixed disciplines.
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Unprecedented consistency & titles: He has amassed 123 PPA gold medals (as of Red Rock Open 2024) and captured 21 Triple Crowns, more than any other male in professional pickleball history.
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Winning streaks: At one point, Johns held a 108-match winning streak in singles.
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Family in the game: Ben often partners with his brother Collin Johns in men’s doubles, while his sister Hannah Johns works for the PPA as a sideline reporter and content editor.
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Gear & technique: He plays with the JOOLA Ben Johns Perseus Pro IV 16 mm paddle, a model built to suit his aggressive, controlled style.
Ben Johns isn’t just a top player, he’s the structural center of professional pickleball.
Anna Leigh Waters: Youth, Dynamism & Triple-Crown Power
Anna Leigh Waters is a phenomenon in the sport. She turned professional at age 12, making her the youngest pro in pickleball history.
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Medal mastery: By early 2025, she had already accumulated over 148 gold medals across singles, doubles, and mixed disciplines.
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Triple Crown runs: In 2025, she earned her 31st Triple Crown (winning singles, doubles, and mixed at the same event) at a PPA masters tournament.
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Backed by a team: Her mother, Leigh Waters, coaches her and occasionally plays alongside her in doubles, making them the only mother-daughter pairing in pro pickleball.
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Play style: Waters is known for a combative, aggressive style, fast footwork, sharp angles, and the ability to pressure opponents early.
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Accolades & recognition: She’s been named to Forbes 30 Under 30, and she’s widely acknowledged as one of the most marketable faces in pickleball.
Waters bridges youth and elite performance - she’s already a cornerstone of the sport’s future.
Federico Staksrud: The Challenger with Upset Potential
Federico Staksrud is often viewed as a disruptor. Someone capable of interrupting the top-tier dominance.
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Rising in the ranks: In mid-season 2024, he showed strong upward movement in men’s mixed doubles (and overall) rankings.
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Headline successes: He’s had standout tournament performances, including a Gold and two Silver medals at a PPA Masters event, putting him in the spotlight.
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Tactical threats: His strategic play and ability to sustain pressure make him dangerous, especially when matched against more established names.
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Matchups with stars: He faced off against Tyson McGuffin and other top competitors on high-profile courts.
Staksrud is not just a “dark horse,” he’s someone who has already proven he can beat the top.
JW Johnson: Calculated & Reliable in Doubles
JW Johnson offers balance and steadiness, especially in doubles play.
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All-around presence: Johnson is recognized as one of the “triple threat” players (top-ranked in singles, doubles, mixed) in mid-2024 PPA stats.
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Strong doubles chemistry: He often partners with his sister, Jorja Johnson, and together they bring coordination and synergy to matches.
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Clutch performances: In the Veolia Atlanta Championships, JW Johnson (with CJ Klinger) took out a top team in a three-game quarterfinal, showing composure under pressure.
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Consistency: While he may not always steal headlines, his strategic play and calm approach make him a constant contender in tournament draws.
JW Johnson’s steadiness is an anchor for any doubles pairing.
Tyson McGuffin: Grit, Fan Appeal & Historic Credentials
Tyson McGuffin has been a stalwart in pro pickleball for years.
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Resume & longevity: He’s a six-time PPA gold medalist and one of the more seasoned names in professional pickleball.
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Triple threat contender: McGuffin also ranks among those viewed as high performers across multiple disciplines (singles, doubles, mixed).
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Tough battles: McGuffin has traded high-profile matches with players like Staksrud; their duels are often tactical and physically intense.
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Fan-favorite status: Known for his grit and passion, McGuffin carries strong appeal with fans who appreciate tenacity.
With his experience and intensity, McGuffin remains a threat and a crowd magnet.
Upcoming PPA Tour Stops
October is a massive month for pickleball fans, with three high-profile events lined up:
Charleston PPA Challenger
📍 Collins Park, North Charleston, SC
📅 October 3-5 2025
Known for its scenic setting and packed stands, the Charleston PPA Challenger offers high-stakes play with a dose of Southern charm. Fans can expect thrilling rallies and unforgettable Championship Court moments.
Fasenra Virginia Beach Cup
📍 S Birdneck Rd, Virginia Beach, VA
📅 October 6–12, 2025
The Virginia Beach Cup blends professional pickleball with coastal vibes. It’s one of the most fun stops on the PPA Tour, perfect for fans who want both competitive intensity and a lively, beachside atmosphere.
Rock City Rally PPA Challenger
📍 Little Rock Athletic Club, AR
📅 October 10-12, 2025
The Little Rock Challenge mixes professional and amateur play, giving up-and-coming athletes a chance to compete alongside the best.
Be Ready for the Action
Pickleball’s rapid growth means players need to be prepared, not just on the court, but off it too. Whether you’re heading to a PPA Tour stop, playing at your local courts, or entering your first amateur tournament, the right gear helps you stay focused.
That’s why we designed the Axiom Pickleball Backpack, built for players who demand organization, durability, and simplicity. With dedicated compartments for paddles, balls, shoes, and personal essentials, it’s the ultimate pickleball bag for those who want to perform at their best.
Because in pickleball, just like on the PPA Tour, it’s the details that give you the edge.