Collin Johns Surprises with Aggressive Serve: In a surprising turn of events on Wednesday, Collin Johns, known for his methodical and defensive approach to pickleball, showcased a dramatically more aggressive serve during his match with his brother Ben Johns. The pair faced off against Luke Wasson and Jonny Andrews in the Round of 32, but it wasn’t just the swift victory that caught the audience’s attention—it was the uncharacteristic serving style that Collin Johns employed.
In a match that wrapped up in less than 20 minutes, Johns’ new serve drew immediate scrutiny. He was faulted four times out of a dozen serves, an unusually high number for a player of his caliber. These faults, combined with a few missed serves, indicated that while Johns was pushing the envelope with his newfound aggression, the technique was still a work in progress. Traditionally, Johns has favored a more conservative and consistent style of play, making this shift all the more noteworthy.
The PPA’s Serve Controversy
The debut of Johns’ aggressive serve comes at a time when the Professional Pickleball Association (PPA) is grappling with the evolving dynamics of the sport. Recently, the PPA sparked debate by announcing its consideration of measures to “de-weaponize the serve.” This initiative comes as a response to growing concerns among players about how the game is being reshaped at the professional level, particularly with the increasing power and precision of serves.
The PPA’s Pro Player Council, which includes Collin Johns, has reportedly fielded several complaints about these shifts. The rise of more powerful paddle technology and the competitive drive to push the limits of what constitutes a legal serve have led to a noticeable change in strategy among top players. As the serve becomes more of a weapon, the PPA is under pressure to maintain the balance and integrity of the game.
The Brothers’ New Approach
For the Johns brothers, this change in serving strategy represents a calculated risk. Since April, the duo has not claimed a title together, leading to speculation about whether their dominance in men’s doubles might be waning. Traditionally, the Johns brothers are known for their steady, high-percentage play—favoring long dink rallies, patient shot selection, and a preference for the drop over the drive. They’ve also been hesitant to adopt the newer, more powerful paddles that many of their competitors have embraced.
In the post-match interview, Collin Johns addressed the shift in his serving approach, with Ben Johns echoing the sentiment. They acknowledged that their decision to adopt a more offensive style was a response to the evolving nature of professional pickleball. The move signals their willingness to adapt, even if it means stepping outside their comfort zone.
The Debate Over Serving Rules
As the debate over serving rules continues, the PPA has yet to implement any changes. The current rules stipulate that serves must be executed with the wrist below the paddle head, at or below the waist, and with an upward motion. In contrast, Major League Pickleball (MLP) has recently relaxed its serving rules, only requiring that players follow the first rule regarding wrist positioning. The PPA’s decision to maintain its traditional rules suggests a cautious approach, possibly waiting to see how the MLP’s changes affect gameplay.
The question now is whether this new, more aggressive serving style will benefit or hinder the Johns brothers as they navigate the competitive landscape of professional pickleball. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see how this strategic shift plays out in future matches.
News in Brief: Collin Johns Surprises with Aggressive Serve
Collin Johns, known for his defensive play, debuted an aggressive new serve during a Round of 32 match alongside brother Ben Johns, raising eyebrows with four faults and several missed serves. This shift comes as the PPA considers ways to “de-weaponize” the serve, responding to concerns about the increasing power in pro pickleball. The Johns brothers, who haven’t won a title since April, acknowledged adopting a more offensive style to keep pace with evolving strategies. The PPA’s serving rules remain unchanged, but the debate over serving techniques continues to intensify.
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