The Rise of Chris Haworth: Christopher Haworth, a name that is rapidly gaining recognition in the world of professional pickleball, has been on an impressive trajectory. From his base in Oklahoma City, OK, the 31-year-old, 6″3 tall and right-handed player, known for his two-handed backhand, has become a presence on both the APP and PPA Tours.
Early Beginnings and Steady Rise
Haworth’s journey in pickleball began several years ago, marked by a steady climb through the ranks. Competing in 18 professional tournaments and participating in a total of 109 pro matches as of July 2024, he has showcased resilience and dedication. His early partnership with Babolat, a renowned French company, set the stage for his rise. Signing on as their first-ever pickleball athlete, Haworth quickly made a name for himself, demonstrating his potential and drive.
Breakthrough on the APP Tour
One of Haworth’s significant breakthroughs on the APP Tour, where he secured three tournament wins this year alone – at Punta Gorda, Delray Beach, and NYC. These victories were not just milestones; they were affirmations of his growing dominance in the sport. At the 2024 APP Punta Gorda Open in Florida, Haworth clinched the gold medal in the Men’s Pro division, showcasing his ability to perform under pressure and against top-tier competition.
His performance at the 2024 APP Vlasic Classic in Delray Beach, Florida, further solidified his reputation. In a thrilling Men’s Pro Singles Final, Haworth faced off against fellow top player JW Johnson, securing his second gold medal of the season with close scores of 16-14 and 15-11. This victory marked his seventh singles medal since August 2022, highlighting his consistency and prowess.
Dominance on the PPA Tour
Haworth’s transition to the PPA Tour was nothing short of spectacular. At the Orange County Cup presented by Fitvine Wine in San Clemente, he won his first-ever gold medal after a series of impressive victories. The highlight was his thrilling men’s singles final, where he clinched the gold with a hard-fought 9-11, 11-5, 11-7 win over top-seeded Federico Staksrud. This performance not only demonstrated his skill but also his mental toughness and strategic acumen.
His journey to this pinnacle was marked by a silver medal in Sacramento, showcasing his ability to maintain high-performance levels across different tournaments. At the Texas Open, Haworth made a significant splash by defeating notable players like Noe Khlif, Roscoe Bellamy, Dusty Boyer, Hunter Johnson, and Federico Staksrud on his way to a silver medal. These victories underscored his versatility and adaptability, key traits for any successful athlete.
The Strategic Player
Haworth’s game is characterized by a blend of powerful shots and strategic play. His right-handed play, coupled with a two-handed backhand, allows him to execute a wide range of shots with precision and power. The Babolat STRKR+ paddle has become an extension of his skill, enabling him to control the game effectively.
His matches are a statement to his strategic mind. Whether it’s outmaneuvering opponents with well-placed shots or wearing them down with relentless rallies, Haworth’s approach to the game is methodical and calculated. His height advantage allows him to cover the court efficiently, making him a challenging opponent for anyone.
Training and Partnerships
A significant factor in Haworth’s rise has been his training regimen and partnerships. His early success on the pro circuit was alongside Lauren Stratman. Together, they found success on both the APP and PPA Tours, laying the foundation for his competitive journey. It was through connections with Stratman and Lea Jansen that Haworth met JW Johnson, now his trusted men’s doubles partner.
Their partnership, cultivated over rigorous training sessions and a shared commitment to excellence, has flourished over the past three years. Frequent trips to Florida for intensive training with Johnson and other top professionals have been crucial in Haworth’s development. These sessions have not only honed his skills but also instilled a sense of camaraderie and mutual respect among peers.
Recognition and Future Prospects
Haworth’s achievements have not gone unnoticed. His consistent performances and ability to secure medals across different tournaments have made him a recognizable figure in the pickleball community. His recent wins and strategic gameplay suggest that he is well on his way to assuming the top spot on the APP Tour, especially with the recent departure of the current number-one-ranked singles player to the PPA.
As he continues to compete and win, the pickleball world is beginning to recognize Haworth not just as a player, but as a significant force in the sport. His journey from Oklahoma City to the top ranks of professional pickleball is a story of perseverance, dedication, and strategic brilliance.
Christopher Haworth’s rise in the professional pickleball scene is a testament to his hard work, strategic mind, and skillful gameplay. From his early days on the APP Tour to his breakthrough performances on the PPA Tour, he has demonstrated what it takes to be a top-tier athlete. With multiple medals and titles under his belt and a reputation for being a dominant force, Haworth’s journey is far from over. As he continues to train, compete, and win, there is no doubt that Chris Haworth is a star in the making, poised to leave a lasting mark on the world of professional pickleball.
News in Brief: The Rise of Chris Haworth
Christopher Haworth, a rising star in professional pickleball, has been making waves from Oklahoma City, OK. Known for his two-handed backhand and standing at 6’3″\, the 31-year-old right-handed player has excelled on both the APP and PPA Tours. Haworth’s breakthrough came with victories in Punta Gorda, Delray Beach, and NYC on the APP Tour, showcasing his growing dominance. Transitioning to the PPA Tour, he clinched his first gold at the Orange County Cup, defeating top-seeded Federico Staksrud. His strategic gameplay, blending powerful shots with precision, and partnerships, especially with JW Johnson, have been key to his success. With consistent performances and a strong training regimen, Haworth is poised to become a top-tier athlete, leaving a lasting impact on the sport.
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