Top 20 Women in Pickleball: As the pickleball season ends, the rankings for the top women players have been updated. The competition has evolved throughout 2024, showcasing remarkable talents and unexpected challenges. Here’s a look at the top 20 women players as we move into 2025.
- Dominance of Anna Leigh Waters: Anna Leigh Waters remains the undisputed top player in women’s pickleball. Despite a solid gap to the second place, competitors are starting to close in. Her consistent performance keeps her at the forefront of the sport.
- The Rise of Anna Bright: Anna Bright has made her mark by overtaking Catherine Parenteau as the second-best player. Bright has shown versatility in her game, excelling in singles, although she does not compete frequently in that format.
- Versatility of Jorja Johnson: Jorja Johnson stands out for her adaptability on the court. She has secured wins with various partners and has incorporated quick speedups into her game. Johnson’s potential to challenge for the top spot in the future is highly anticipated.
- Catherine Parenteau’s Transition: Catherine Parenteau remains a strong competitor, but 2024 revealed some vulnerabilities. She has dropped from her previous ranking as a top singles player and has struggled in mixed doubles. However, her experience will be valuable with new partners in 2025.
- Improvements and Challenges for Rachel Rohrabacher: Rachel Rohrabacher has shown improvement, but her game still has weaknesses compared to the top players. Issues with her forehand technique and shot selection under pressure have limited her effectiveness.
- Kate Fahey’s Rapid Ascent: Kate Fahey has experienced a rapid rise, becoming the second-best singles player while also improving in doubles. Many anticipate her continuing to develop her skills as she takes on new roles in 2025.
- Tina Pisnik’s Solid Year: Tina Pisnik has maintained a strong presence in mixed and women’s doubles. Her defensive skills are commendable, though the current trend toward offense may challenge her in the upcoming season.
- Tyra Black’s Diverse Partnerships: Tyra Black has shown success with various partners in 2024. However, she needs to enhance her forehand crosscourt skills to remain competitive, especially in mixed doubles.
- Lea Jansen’s Versatile Play: Lea Jansen has demonstrated power and improvement in her dinking and defense. Despite a minor setback in singles, her adaptability in different formats, including MLP, keeps her competitive.
- Etta Wright’s Potential Comeback: Etta Wright faced challenges in 2024, largely due to partner performance. With a renewed focus and potential new partnerships, Wright is expected to rebound in 2025.
- Consistency Issues for Parris Todd: Parris Todd ended 2024 on a positive note but has experienced inconsistency throughout the year. Continued improvement will be essential for her as she enters the new season.
- Strong Performances from Jackie Kawamoto: Jackie Kawamoto showcased her steady gameplay in MLP. Her partnership with Jansen was pivotal for New York’s team, highlighting her reliability on the court.
- Mari Humberg’s Emergence: Mari Humberg transitioned from an unknown player to a prominent figure this year, medaling early and performing well in MLP. Her growth has caught the attention of fans and analysts alike.
- Resurgence of Jessie Irvine: Jessie Irvine proved critics wrong after winning gold in mixed doubles with Gabe Tardio, showcasing her steady and resilient playing style throughout the year.
- Vivienne David’s Need for Adaptation: Vivienne David struggled in 2024, largely missing her partnership with Thomas Wilson. Adapting to the evolving power dynamics of the game will be crucial for her return.
- Up-and-Comer Chao Yi Wang: Chao Yi Wang made significant strides, especially in singles. Her performances in Challenger MLP highlighted her potential as a strong competitor in the future.
- Lacy Schneemann’s Inconsistency: Lacy Schneemann has showcased both top-tier and subpar performances, leading to fluctuating rankings. Finding her optimal playing style will be key to her success in 2025.
- Veteran Perspectives: Callie Smith and Lucy Kovalova, both veteran players at 33 and 32, respectively, are adapting their styles to compete with younger talents. Their experience remains invaluable as they navigate a changing sport.
- Meghan Dizon’s Struggles: Meghan Dizon faced a challenging year, with her partnership with Wright faltering. Improvements toward the end of the year raise questions about whether 2024 was an anomaly or a downward trend.
Looking Forward to 2025
As 2025 approaches, the pickleball community eagerly anticipates the evolution of these rankings. With injuries and adjustments in partnerships, the next season promises exciting matchups and potential shifts in the leaderboard. Players will need to adapt quickly to stay competitive, making for a thrilling year ahead in women’s pickleball.
News in Brief: Top 20 Women in Pickleball
As 2024 ends, the updated rankings for the top women players in pickleball reflect significant changes. Anna Leigh Waters remains the top player, with Anna Bright rising to second. Jorja Johnson’s adaptability and Kate Fahey’s rapid ascent also stand out.
Veterans like Callie Smith and Lucy Kovalova continue to compete, while players like Etta Wright and Meghan Dizon seek comebacks. As 2025 approaches, the pickleball community anticipates exciting matchups and potential shifts in the leaderboard.
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