Injury Struggles at PPA Atlanta Slam: As the 2024 pickleball season enters its latter half, injuries are starting to take a toll on the field. At the CIBC Atlanta Slam, some notable players found themselves sidelined, affecting the competitive dynamics of the tournament. Among the most significant withdrawals were Dylan Frazier and Christian Alshon, both of whom pulled out of singles due to lingering injuries.
Ben Johns, one of the sport’s top stars, also had to retire mid-match against Grayson Goldin, leaving fans concerned about his health.
Ben Johns’ Ankle Scare
Johns’ injury came unexpectedly. During a casual moment off the court, he rolled his ankle while kicking around a pickleball. The injury forced him to retire after dropping the first game to Goldin, 5-11, as he visibly hobbled on his right foot. Despite this, Johns remained determined to finish the tournament.
He was later seen sporting an ASO brace on his ankle for the remainder of the event. Remarkably, by Championship Sunday, Johns moved well, showing resilience despite the injury. His effort kept him competitive, proving once again why he’s considered one of the toughest players in the game.
Yates Johnson’s Tough Quarterfinal Exit
On “Quarterfinal Friday,” Yates Johnson squared off against Connor Garnett in a highly anticipated singles match. Johnson dominated the first game, winning 11-6. But during the final rally, a slight misstep led to a left groin injury that left him limping for the rest of the match.
Despite his obvious discomfort, Johnson continued to fight, producing some incredible passing shots, even as his movement to the right was severely limited. Garnett would eventually prevail, but Johnson’s grit and perseverance earned him admiration from the crowd.
Atlanta’s Injury Woes
Injuries are an unfortunate reality in a long season, and Atlanta seemed to bear the brunt of it this time. With multiple players affected, including Frazier, Alshon, and Johns, it was a physically taxing event for many.
Still, players like Johnson showed that determination and toughness can shine even in difficult circumstances. Let’s hope the rest of the 2024 season sees healthier competition moving forward.
News in Brief: Injury Struggles at PPA Atlanta Slam
The CIBC Atlanta Slam saw a wave of injuries, with notable players like Dylan Frazier, Christian Alshon, and Ben Johns affected. Johns rolled his ankle and withdrew mid-match but played later rounds wearing a brace. Yates Johnson, another competitor, suffered a groin injury yet pushed through an intense quarterfinal match.
Injuries are inevitable in sports, but Atlanta experienced a particularly high number this time. Fans hope the remainder of the 2024 season will bring better health across the field.
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