Josh Jenkins Pro Pickleball Return: Josh Jenkins made his return to pro pickleball competition at the PPA Fairport Challenger, stepping onto the court for the first time in over 18 months. Playing both men’s and mixed doubles, he embraced the challenge, learned from tough matches, and built new friendships throughout the event.
This trip was different from his first “Two Zeroes and a Pro” journey. Instead of watching from the sidelines, Josh was in the action. As a JOOLA employee, surrounded by friends and a camera crew, he entered the men’s pro main draw with pressure and excitement.
First Matches Bring Tough Start
Josh Jenkins began his men’s doubles match confidently, walking onto the court with high energy and support from his crew. But the game didn’t go as planned.
“In what felt like five minutes, I heard, ‘Down goes Frazier!’ because I was the one taking the body blows from The Champ.”
Despite the early loss, Josh and his partner bounced back in the backdraw, settling into their rhythm. They used smart placement and movement to apply pressure. However, their next opponents were a young, talented duo. They lost, but Josh took the experience positively. He also got to cheer on JOOLA teammates Jonathan “JLG” Gonzalez and Yuta Kawamoto, who won gold, and Anouar Toubal and Joris Messerschmitt, who earned bronze.
Josh also continued filming for “Two Zeroes and a Pro” with Corey, Isang, and new addition Connor.
First-Time Mixed Doubles Brings Surprises
On Sunday, Josh played mixed doubles with Cynthia Tow for the first time. Though they were underdogs, they upset expectations by winning the first game against the top-seeded team. They eventually lost, but not before pushing the eventual gold medalists.
“Sometimes when expectations are low, you perform better,” (Josh Jenkins).
The opponents admitted it was their hardest match.
Later matches were intense. In one, Josh and Cynthia were down 14–10, saved match points, and won 18–16. Cynthia had a few ups and downs during the match but made key plays late.
“I never stopped believing in her, and she trusted me to play freely,” (Josh Jenkins).
In their third match, they saved match points again but missed their own game-winner. Josh called it a “great match” and said he left feeling proud of their performance.
Off-Court Moments Matter Most
Off the court, Josh enjoyed connecting with other players and parents like Polina Libo and Thanh Bui, who shared stories about tennis, pickleball, and travel.
He ended the weekend with a debrief alongside Corey, Isang, Connor, and Cynthia Tow.
“Cynthia is a true professional. She spoke with clarity and perspective, and I tried to do the same. We’ll be teaming up again in Orlando,” (Josh Jenkins).
He also met Paul and Joey Valenti, talked about old matches, and enjoyed classic Rochester food — Garbage Plates — while bonding over the sport’s growth.
Though he left with four losses, Josh gained more than results. He gained new friends, memories, and motivation to continue competing.
News in Brief: Josh Jenkins Pro Pickleball Return
Josh Jenkins returned to the pro pickleball scene at the PPA Fairport Challenger, playing men’s and mixed doubles for the first time in over a year. Despite early losses, he found his rhythm, built strong partnerships, and formed lasting friendships through the “Two Zeroes and a Pro” experience.