Ben Johns Claims PPA Bristol Singles Title: In a display of skill and determination, Ben Johns overcame a prior setback to claim the men’s singles gold, besting the top-seeded Federico Staksrud with scores of 11-4, 11-9.
Johns and Staksrud, both masters of the game with their strategic play around the kitchen line, entered their latest encounter with a shared intensity. Their styles are nearly mirror images of each other, yet in this match, Johns emerged as the more precise competitor.
Staksrud, however, has had a standout year in singles. The Argentinian sensation has made it to the singles final in 14 of 16 PPA events, even seizing the top spot in the 52-week rankings—a testament to his remarkable season.
Despite this, Johns has maintained a clear edge in their recent head-to-head matchups, extending his perfect 2024 record to 5-0 with this win. Impressively, each of these victories has occurred on Championship Sunday, showing Johns’ knack for rising to the occasion.
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No Signs of Rust
This victory marks Johns’ return to singles action since earning bronze at the Orange County Cup in June. Despite the break, there was no evidence of rust.
“I haven’t played singles since June, so I’m glad to know that taking a month and a half off hasn’t affected the performance. If anything, I feel better than ever. For summer training, Collin [Johns] and I worked on a number of great things, and it’s clearly paid off.” – (Johns )
A Double Chance for Glory
At just 25 years old, Johns now sets his sights on a second title for the day. He and partner Anna Leigh Waters are gearing up to face Anna Bright and Christian Alshon in the mixed doubles final, aiming to add another accolade to an already impressive day.
In this latest chapter of his career, Johns continues to show why he is a formidable force in the world of pickleball, showing resilience and brilliance on the court.
News in Brief: Ben Johns Claims PPA Bristol Singles Title
Ben Johns secured the men’s singles title in Bristol, TN, by defeating top-seeded Federico Staksrud 11-4, 11-9. Despite Staksrud’s impressive season, which included 14 finals and a stint as the top-ranked player, Johns extended his unbeaten 2024 record against him to 5-0.
Johns, who last competed in singles at the Orange County Cup in June, showed no signs of rust. He’ll next compete for a mixed doubles title with Anna Leigh Waters.
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