Ben Johns won the men’s singles title at the 2025 Veolia Atlanta Pickleball Championships with a tough three-game win over Connor Garnett. On Sunday, at Humana Championship Court, Ben Johns came back from a game down to defeat Connor Garnett 3-11, 11-9, 11-9.
Comeback Victory After Early Struggles
Connor Garnett, the No. 3 seed, started strong. He took the first game 11-3 using fast and accurate passing shots. In the second game, he led 5-1 and looked ready to close it out. But Ben Johns changed the pace, slowed the game, and began to take control.
The No. 4 seed forced longer rallies and made Connor Garnett adjust his style. Johns’ steady play helped him win the second game 11-9. In the final game, Ben Johns stayed ahead and earned his first match point at 10-6.
Connor Garnett saved three match points, but Ben Johns finished it on his fourth try. He ended the match with a powerful ATP winner into the open court. He let out a loud yell, showing more emotion than usual.
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Reactions After the Match
Ben Johns shared why this win felt special.
“Connor gets to everything and makes you hit so many balls, so I was just exhausted at the end. I think that’s what brought the emotion out of me. A lot of people say that you can’t do it without the crowd, and this time it was really true. I was just so exhausted, and they helped a lot.” – (johns)
Connor Garnett stayed positive, despite the loss in his first Championship Sunday match of 2025.
“I’m stoked to be playing well, and the energy was electric out here. It’s always fun having battles with great players. Obviously not the result I wanted, but all kudos to Ben. He really went out there and took it.” – (Garnett)
What This Win Means
This was Johns’ second gold medal of the day. The win proved his strength in singles after already playing in two other finals. The victory also showed his ability to fight back under pressure and adjust his strategy.
Connor Garnett’s strong showing in Atlanta was a big step forward. Reaching the final shows that he is becoming a top-level player. Fans can expect to see more of him at future PPA Tour events.
News in Brief: Ben Johns Won the Men’s Singles Title
Ben Johns won the men’s singles title at the 2025 Veolia Atlanta Pickleball Championships by beating Connor Garnett 3-11, 11-9, 11-9. Johns overcame early struggles and won his second gold medal of the day, while Garnett made a strong impression in his first Championship Sunday appearance.