Ben Johns and Tom Dundon Brutally Defeated: Ben Johns, usually seen on the court with Anna Leigh Waters or his brother, Collin Johns, teamed up with an unexpected partner at the Lapiplasty Pickleball World Championships, Tom Dundon, the owner of the United Pickleball Association (UPA), Pickleball TopCo, and Dundon Capital Partners.
Although the duo has played recreational games together at Tom Dundon’s residences in Dallas and Cabo, their tournament experience together is limited to just two events—the Lapiplasty Pickleball World Championships in 2023 and again this year. Their last outing ended in the quarterfinals, where they were knocked out by Steve Dawson and his son, Callan Dawson.
Tom Dundon’s Entry into Pickleball
Tom Dundon’s entry into pickleball began in 2022 when he discovered a new passion for the sport. In an interview, he explained,
“Exercise, at least for me, was boring. I would always rather play something.” – (Tom Dundon)
His growing love for the game soon led him to the business side of pickleball. Tom Dundon invested in some of the largest companies in the sport, including Pickleball Central, Pickleball Brackets, and the PPA Tour.
“I was in a position where I could get involved on the business side for fun because it was something I was interested in.” – (Tom Dundon)
A New Challenge at Lapiplasty Pickleball World Championships
In 2024, Ben Johns and Tom Dundon returned to the Split Pro Age division, a unique event that pairs a current professional player with a senior pro. Tom Dundon, who earned a DUPR rating of 5.773 after this event, entered with limited senior pro experience.
However, the duo advanced to the finals, where they faced off against World #10 Gabe Tardio and his partner Brian Levine. Brian Levine is also a senior pro, a UPA Board Member, and the former interim CEO of Major League Pickleball (MLP).
“It was an absolute blast playing Split Pro Age. Such a unique format, and the strategy is unlike any we are used to playing. Gabe is truly an incredible talent, and given we are both from South Florida, it was fun playing in the finals vs. our friends from here in Texas.” – (Brian Levine)
A Nail-Biting Final
The final match was a thrilling contest. Ben Johns and Tom Dundon won the first game 12-10, but Gabe Tardio and Brian Levine quickly turned the tide, winning the next two games 11-4, 11-4. Brian Levine shared his thoughts on the win.
“I wouldn’t be honest if I didn’t admit that it was a touch special getting the better of both Tom and Ben. Tom and I have a little rivalry on the court, and Ben actually beat me in singles earlier this year… lefty! So this definitely felt good.” – (Brian Levine)
Ben Johns Reflects on the Day
Despite the loss, Tom Dundon wasn’t entirely happy with his performance, but Ben Johns saw the day in a more lighthearted way.
“It was fun. I only ever see him [Tom] in casual settings or doing business, so to see him compete in the same arena as I do was pretty funny.” – (ben johns)
When asked if Tom Dundon had any remarks about his performance, Ben Johns couldn’t help but laugh.
“he called himself some words not suitable for articles.” – (ben johns)
In the end, it was a reminder that even someone as successful and business-savvy as Tom Dundon can feel the intense competitive drive every player experiences on the pickleball court.
News in Brief: Ben Johns and Tom Dundon Brutally Defeated
Ben Johns and Tom Dundon made it to the finals of the Split Pro Age division at the 2024 Lapiplasty Pickleball World Championships, facing off against Gabe Tardio and Brian Levine.
After winning the first game, Ben Johns and Tom Dundon were defeated in the next two, with Gabe Tardio and Brian Levine taking the title. Ben Johns expressed enjoyment in seeing Tom Dundon compete professionally, while Tom Dundon joked about his performance.