James Ignatowich’s Pickleball Earnings: James Ignatowich’s story in 2024 is one of meteoric financial success, a reflection of the broader explosion in pickleball’s popularity and profitability. Ranked 22nd in men’s doubles and third in mixed doubles on the PPA Tour, the 24-year-old has emerged as one of the sport’s brightest talents, and it’s paying off in a big way.
In a candid conversation with Nicole Talisse on Instagram, Ignatowich disclosed that his income from pickleball-related activities would surpass $1 million this year. “My income this year is four times what it was last year. I’m going to make over $1 million this year,” he revealed. “There are probably 10 pickleball players now who could say that.
The Economic Boom in Pickleball
Ignatowich’s financial leap is not an isolated case but part of a larger trend within the sport. Just a few years ago, such earnings in pickleball would have been unimaginable. The rapid growth of the game has brought with it unprecedented financial opportunities for its top players.
Ben Johns, the top-ranked player on the men’s side, serves as the clearest example of this economic boom. In May, Johns told CNBC that he expected his income to reach around $2.5 million in 2024—a staggering tenfold increase from his 2018 earnings. For context, Johns had reported earning about $250,000 in 2021 and just $50,000 in 2018, underscoring the sport’s rapid monetization, particularly in the post-pandemic era.
“The money is exploding and it’s such a good sign for the game,” Ignatowich commented, reflecting on the broader implications of these financial gains. “It definitely shows that pickleball is here to stay.”
From Tennis Courts to Pickleball Stardom
Ignatowich’s rise in pickleball is grounded in his athletic background. A former tennis player at Vanderbilt University, he made the switch to pickleball and has quickly become one of its most promising stars. His success on the court has translated into significant earnings, bolstered by sponsorship deals and other pickleball-related opportunities.
In April, Ignatowich was selected eighth overall in the Major League Pickleball Premier Level draft, joining the D.C. Pickleball Team. This move not only cemented his status as a top player but also positioned him within a growing league that continues to attract significant attention and investment.
A key part of Ignatowich’s financial success comes from his sponsorship with Selkirk, a leading brand in the pickleball world. As a Selkirk-sponsored athlete, Ignatowich uses the company’s VANGUARD Power Air – Invikta paddle and is often seen wearing Selkirk’s apparel during competitions. This partnership has undoubtedly contributed to his impressive income, underscoring the increasing value of endorsements in the sport.
View this post on Instagram
The Future of Pickleball’s Economic Landscape
Ignatowich’s financial success is indicative of the broader growth and sustainability of pickleball as a professional sport. The days when top players struggled to make a living are quickly fading, replaced by a new era where the game’s elite can earn seven-figure incomes.
As Ignatowich and other top players continue to push the boundaries of what’s possible in pickleball, both on and off the court, the sport’s future looks brighter than ever. The economic opportunities in pickleball are expanding, and with them, the potential for more players to achieve financial success.
In a sport that has often been underestimated, Ignatowich’s story is a powerful reminder that pickleball is not just here to stay—it’s here to thrive.
News in Brief: James Ignatowich’s Pickleball Earnings
James Ignatowich’s financial success in 2024 underscores the explosive growth of pickleball. Ranked 22nd in men’s doubles and 3rd in mixed doubles on the PPA Tour, the 24-year-old revealed his earnings will surpass $1 million this year, a fourfold increase from last year. This reflects a broader trend, with top players like Ben Johns also seeing significant income boosts—Johns expects to earn around $2.5 million in 2024. Ignatowich’s rise, including his Major League Pickleball draft and sponsorship with Selkirk, highlights the sport’s increasing profitability. As pickleball’s financial landscape evolves, top players now enjoy seven-figure incomes, signaling a bright future for the sport.
ALSO READ: Best Indoor Pickleball Courts in Grand Rapids: Midwest’s Hotspot
