Michael Loyd Feels Like the ‘Luckiest Guy’: A major upset took place at the Lapiplasty Pickleball World Championships on Thursday as Michael Loyd, the No. 21 seed, stunned the pickleball world by defeating No. 2 seed Ben Johns in the Round of 16. With an impressive 11-3, 11-9 scoreline, Loyd secured a spot in the quarterfinals, marking the biggest victory of his career.
Strategic Timeouts Help Loyd Maintain Composure
Though Ben Johns fought back in the second game, the match was ultimately decided by Loyd’s calculated timeouts and his ability to stay mentally strong under pressure. Loyd explained how those breaks played a key role in his success.
“Timeouts became really important to just gather my thoughts and go back to the drawing board,” said Loyd. “I was reminding myself of what I told myself to do before I came out here: to go for my serve, go for my third, come in and crash, be aggressive, play my style and see how it goes.”
A Special Victory for the Dallas Native
For Michael Loyd, this win held particular significance as he is a native of Dallas, Texas. Defeating a player of Ben Johns’ caliber in straight games was a moment of personal triumph and one he will cherish forever.
“I just went for it. I told myself before today that I believe I can do it, and if nobody else does, that’s okay,” Loyd said with a sense of pride.
Reflecting on the anticipation of playing against the sport’s greatest, Loyd added, “A bunch of people asked me this morning ‘Who are you going to play?’ And I said Ben, and they winced. I just laughed and said I think he might be scared of me. You’ve got to be a little bit delusional to come out here and try to beat somebody like him. All the respect to him, he’s the G.O.A.T. for a reason.”
Support from Family and Friends Leads to Victory
Loyd’s confidence wasn’t just a product of his own mentality; it was also powered by the unwavering support of his family, friends, and fans. Courtside cheers from his mom, grandparents, girlfriend, friends, and sponsors gave him the energy to perform at his best.
“I’m so incredibly grateful. God put me in this moment with these types of fans, and support from my mom, my grandparents, girlfriend, friends, and sponsors in the crowd—it means everything,” said Loyd, clearly moved by the support.
“You don’t do it without an army. I’m the luckiest guy,” he added, humbled by the experience.
Loyd’s Focus Now Shifts to Quarterfinals Against JW Johnson
With this dream win in hand, Michael Loyd advances to the quarterfinals, where he will face the formidable JW Johnson on Friday. Loyd has undoubtedly shown that he has the mental toughness and physical skill to compete with the best.
News in Brief: Michael Loyd Feels Like the ‘Luckiest Guy’
Michael Loyd, the No. 21 seed, pulled off a stunning upset by defeating No. 2 seed Ben Johns 11-3, 11-9 in the Round of 16 at the Lapiplasty Pickleball World Championships. After Johns gained some momentum in the second game, Loyd’s strategic timeouts helped him regain control. The Dallas native credited his victory to his support system, including family and friends courtside. Loyd advances to the quarterfinals, where he will face JW Johnson on Friday.