Pickleball is an amazing sport, and recently considered as one of the most exciting sports in the world believe it or not. And while we covered exciting sports before, like the top lacrosse players and the best hockey players of all time, this post is a bit different.
As a sport as highly demanding and fast-paced. Pickleball is a game that combines the traits of tennis, badminton, and table tennis. These games, attract both experienced and new players from around the world.
These exceptional pickleball players showcase lightning-fast reflexes and strategic finesse, taking the sport to new heights and impressing spectators and enthusiasts with their remarkable talent.
That’s the reason in this article we will dive into the exciting world of pickleball and we will explore the talents and skills of the most talented players of the sport.
Every player on the list, whether a male or female, has unique characteristics, amazing skills, and a thriving personality. All those qualities help to become the top of the top and serve as heroes in the game courts.
Quick summary of the top 5 male and top 5 female players right now
Table of Contents
List of 21 Best Pickleball Players
| Male | Female |
| Ben Johns | Anna Leigh Waters |
| JW Johnson | Lea Jansen |
| Zane Navrati | Catherine Parenteau |
| Tyson McGuffin | Jessie Irvine |
Top 10 Men Pickleball Players
1. Ben Johns
Ben Johns is one of the top pickleball players in the association of the sport. He is ranked No. 1 in the world for doubles, mixed doubles, and singles by the Pro Pickleball Association as well as by the World Pickleball Rankings and Global Pickleball Rankings.
Ben Johns with his great reflexes and dedication has brought a new era to the sport. He is one of the most accomplished and skilled pickleball players of all time.
His impressive list of titles and rigorous training regimen has earned him a place among the greats. With his remarkable performances, he has captivated audiences and inspired future generations.
Ben’s two-handed backhand and explosive forehand showcase his exceptional level of skill and precision, leaving spectators in awe. He is a versatile player, excelling in singles, doubles, and mixed doubles, thanks to his strategic brilliance and adaptability.
Ben Johns is a shining example of the pursuit of excellence, constantly redefining the standards of greatness in the sport of pickleball.
2. JW Johnson
JW Johnson is one of the rising stars in pickleball. Before start playing pickleball he was a professional tennis player in Florida. JW Johnson passed his early age in Pittsburgh Kan. However, he joined Florida’s tennis team when his family moved to Florida.
JW Johnson plays pickleball since 2011, and he ranks among the top players around the world. He is known for the feature to boost his performance in the last rounds of the tournaments both in singles and doubles.
It is worth mentioning that he holds many titles in his name, and he is one of the most well-known players. In 2022, JW won three Triple Crowns, won 47 medals, and became the youngest pickleball player ever to win the men’s singles title at the age of 19.
JW Johnson has an unwavering dedication to pickleball and he is continuously improving his skills and gaining valuable experience on the competitive circuit.
3. Zane Navrati
Zane Navratil ranks among the top male pickleball players every year. In Navratil’s career, he has won over 80 titles, a testament to his amazing skills and determination.
Navratil is just 26 years old and has already made his mark with his speed and coverage. Known for moving fast across the court and retrieving seemingly unreachable shots, he’s a formidable opponent. Because of his relentless energy and agility, his opponents often get frustrated.
Zane Navratil continues to make a mark on the pickleball community with his remarkable achievements and knack for outmaneuvering his rivals. His remarkable talent and refinement of his game make him an unstoppable force in the highly competitive world of pickleball.
4. Tyson McGuffin
Tyson McGuffin is a renowned player in the professional pickleball world, known for his exceptional skills and remarkable achievements. McGuffin won four national championships and he is now considered one of the top players in the pickleball league.
His remarkable performance has left an unforgettable impact on the sport. Having transitioned from coaching tennis, McGuffin brought his exceptional athleticism and competitive spirit to the world of pickleball.
One of the things that helped him become a well-known player is his coaching experience. This experience helped him create strategies that made him adapt to all situations among his opponents.
McGuffin is known for his passionate playing style and his thrilling energy that captivates the viewers. Whether it’s his thunderous smashes or precise shot placement, he consistently brings a level of passion and intensity that sets him apart.
Tyson McGuffin’s impact on pickleball extends beyond his on-court achievements. His outspoken nature and dedication to the sport have helped propel pickleball into the spotlight, further elevating its popularity.
As a true trailblazer, McGuffin continues to inspire players and fans alike with his remarkable skills, relentless passion, and undeniable influence in the pickleball community.
5. Jay Devilliers
Jay Devilliers is a renowned ‘Flying Frenchman’ of the pickleball world. He’s only 27 years old but has already proved himself as a well-rounded athlete, drawing from his experience in soccer, tennis, and other sports to bring an electrifying style of play and undeniable French charm to the court.
Ranked among the top 5 players in the world, Devilliers is a force to be reckoned with. He’s adaptable and versatile, excelling in different playing styles and formats, making him a formidable opponent for anyone who takes him on.
His matches against elite competitors like Ben Johns are legendary, showcasing his skills and the intense competition at the top of the sport.
With an exciting blend of athleticism, finesse, and flair, Jay Devilliers brings an unparalleled level of excitement to the pickleball court.
The dynamic playing style that he has on the court makes him a dream player for the fans who follow his every move. Devilliers’ continues his career on the field and he leaves a lasting impression.
6. Riley Newman
Riley Newman is a top player in the sport. In the past, he was one of the top players in Division 1 basketball and tennis at the University of Washington, but in terms of his professional career pickleball won his heart.
It is worth mentioning that despite the success that he had in all the other sports, Newman made the choice and moved to the world of pickleball, and he became one of the top players.
At the age of 28, Newman showcases his immense talent in both singles and doubles competitions. His athleticism, honed through his basketball and tennis background, translates seamlessly to the pickleball court.
Whether it’s his lightning-fast reflexes, precise shot placement, or strategic court coverage, Newman’s skills are on full display as he competes at the highest level.
One unique aspect of Newman’s pickleball journey is his partnership with his sister, Lindsey. The siblings frequently team up in mixed doubles events, combining their exceptional abilities to form a formidable duo.
On the court, their chemistry and shared enthusiasm for the game make them a formidable team that cannot be underestimated.
As Riley Newman continues to make an impression in the pickleball community, his commitment and natural athleticism are glowing through.
With each match, he further solidifies his place among the sport’s elite players, captivating audiences with his impressive performances and the exciting prospect of what lies ahead for this rising star in pickleball.
7. AJ Koller
AJ Koller is one of the best players in the pickleball world. At the age of 33, he is considered one of the most powerful players in the league. He is known for his thrilling talent, and his skills on the court and he is considered one of the most exceptional competitors.
With a remarkable DUPR doubles rating of 6.708, Koller’s prowess on the court is undeniable. Koller is a skilled player who brings a lot of value to his team with his strategic thinking, quick movements, and accurate shots. His powerful serves and precise volleys are key to his team’s success.
As Major League Pickleball continues to gain popularity, AJ Koller’s performances captivate audiences and highlight his immense talent.
Koller, showcase his amazing skills in every match. He shows that he can perform well under high-pressure situations and his impact is undoubted on the sport.
As Koller continues to make his mark in Major League Pickleball, fans eagerly anticipate his future contributions and the exciting impact he will undoubtedly have on the sport. With his impressive abilities and unwavering dedication, AJ Koller remains a force to be reckoned with in the world of pickleball.
8. Dylan Frazier
Dylan Frazier is making a name for himself in the world of Major League Pickleball. He is a member of the ATX Pickleballers team and has shown immense talent. Even though he is only 20 years old, Frazier is quickly climbing the world rankings and is considered one of the sport’s emerging young talents.
Frazier has a dynamic playing style and exceptional skills that bring fresh energy to the pickleball court. He displays maturity beyond his years with his agility, quick reflexes, and strategic decision-making.
Frazier competes against seasoned professionals and impresses fans and fellow players with his remarkable performances.
As a rising star, Dylan Frazier represents the future of pickleball. His dedication to honing his craft and his natural talent have propelled him up the rankings, capturing the attention of the pickleball community.
With each match, Frazier solidifies his position as an exciting young talent to watch, and his potential for greatness in the sport is undeniable.
As Dylan Frazier’s career continues to flourish, his rapid rise and impressive skills mark him as a rising star in Major League Pickleball. Fans eagerly anticipate his future achievements and the exciting impact he will undoubtedly have on the sport as he matures and continues to shine on the pickleball court.
9. Collin Johns
Collin Johns is a doubles player known for his exceptional strategic prowess and his remarkable partnership with his brother, Ben Johns. Together, they have formed an unstoppable duo that has dominated the men’s doubles pickleball scene, emerging as the preeminent pairing in the sport.
With a keen understanding of the game and a smart approach, Collin Johns brings a unique perspective to the court. His ability to anticipate his opponents’ moves, combined with precise shot placement, enables him to consistently outmaneuver and outwit his adversaries.
Collin’s tactical genius and decision-making skills are key factors in the success he and his brother have achieved on the pickleball circuit.
The Johns Brothers’ partnership has resulted in numerous victories in major tournaments, cementing their status as an unbeatable force in men’s doubles pickleball.
Their chemistry, coordination, and complementary playing styles make them an incredibly effective team, capable of dismantling even the toughest opponents.
Collin Johns’ contribution to their success cannot be understated. His strategic approach, combined with his brother’s exceptional skills, has created a formidable combination that is unrivaled in the men’s doubles category.
As they continue to compete and dominate the pickleball world, the Johns Brothers’ legacy as one of the greatest doubles pairings will undoubtedly endure.
10. Kyle Yates
Kyle Yates is one of the most experienced and top players in the Pickleball world. He has an impressive record in the sport, as he won 6 U.S gold medals. Kyle Yates graduated from the University of Florida, and he partnered with the Paddletek.
This partnership showcases his commitment to the sport and explains his reputation as a top-tier player.
Throughout his career, Kyle Yales ranks in the top 10 players worldwide.
Yates is known for his versatile style on the court, his selection of shots, and his ability to adapt to all situations. As a true legend of the sport, he is a force to be reckoned with and an inspiration to aspiring players. The pickleball community eagerly anticipates his future success and brilliance.
Top 11 Women Pickleball Players
1. Anna Leigh Waters
At just 15 years old, Anna Leigh Waters has already made a significant impact on the world of women’s pickleball. With a strong athletic background in sports like soccer and tennis, she brings a versatile skill set to the court.
Teaming up with her mother and mixed doubles partner Ben Johns, Waters has achieved remarkable success, consistently winning tournaments and establishing herself as one of the elite players in the sport.
Her exceptional talent, coupled with her young age, makes her a promising rising star in pickleball, captivating fans and inspiring future generations of players.
As the face of women’s pickleball at such a tender age, Anna Leigh Waters has demonstrated remarkable skill and dedication.
With each match, she continues to impress the pickleball community, leaving a lasting impression with her impressive performances and undeniable potential.
As she continues to develop and refine her game, the future looks incredibly bright for Anna Leigh Waters in the world of women’s pickleball.
2. Lea Jansen
Lea Jansen is a promising player from Washington who has quickly risen through the ranks in women’s pickleball. At just 29 years old, she’s already ranked No. 3 in the world and has made a significant impact since turning pro in 2021.
Jansen’s remarkable success in the sport is proof that shows her talent and commitment to the sport. She consistently shows her ability to compete at the highest level, going head-to-head with the game’s best players week after week.
Her competitive spirit and unwavering dedication have made her a rising force in women’s pickleball, impressing both opponents and spectators.
As Jansen continues to climb the rankings, her impressive performances speak volumes about her potential. With her relentless drive and consistent results, she’s undoubtedly a player to watch as she makes her mark in the world of women’s pickleball.
3. Catherine Parenteau
Since joining the professional pickleball circuit in 2016, Catherine Parenteau has showcased her exceptional skills and versatility on the court. At just 27 years old, she has quickly become known as one of the most complete players in the sport.
Whether it’s her powerful serves, precise shot placement, or solid defensive abilities, Parenteau consistently demonstrates a high level of proficiency in all aspects of the game.
Teaming up with Callie Smith, Parenteau forms a dynamic women’s doubles duo that has risen to the top ranks of the sport.
Their strong chemistry and complementary playing styles have proven to be a winning combination, making them one of the most formidable teams in pickleball.
With each match, Parenteau continues to leave a lasting impact on the pickleball community, contributing to the team’s success and showcasing her expertise on the court.
As Catherine Parenteau’s career progresses, her reputation as a well-rounded professional in pickleball continues to grow. Her remarkable skill set and successful doubles partnership position her as a force to be reckoned with in the sport.
Fans eagerly anticipate her future performances, as she continues to make her mark and achieve new heights in the exciting world of pickleball.
4. Jorja Johnson
At just 15 years old, Jorja Johnson has emerged as a remarkable talent in the world of pickleball. Hailing from a family of pickleball enthusiasts, with her brother being the elite men’s player JW Johnson, Jorja made her mark at a young age.
Her impressive performances have earned her a spot on the Hard Eights team in Major League Pickleball, where she continues to shine.
Regardless of her young age, Jorja is already considered one of the top professional players in the Pickleball league.
She has an impressive collection of 19 professional medals and her competitive ability and style are obvious. Jorja’s ability to hold her own against seasoned professionals and gather awards at such a young age is a testament to her extraordinary possibilities.
As Jorja Johnson impresses pickleball fans with every game. She showcases complete maturity and professional playing style in every game that she competes. That’s why the pickleball community anticipates her bright future in the courts.
5. Jessie Irvine
At 32 years old, Jessie Irvine has established herself as a formidable presence in the world of pickleball. Known for her athleticism and versatility on the court, Irvine consistently showcases her skills in both mixed doubles and women’s doubles, forming successful partnerships with players like Devilliers and Parenteau.
Irvine has a dynamic style and an impressive ability to adapt to different patterns in the pickleball court. She is also considered a great asset in double-format games.
Her great skills on the court made her a recognized player in the pickleball world. It is worth mentioning that Irvine, before starting playing as a professional athlete was working as a sports reporter in the courts, at Tennis channel.
Since transitioning to pickleball in 2018, she has made a significant impact, garnering attention and achieving notable results.
As Jessie Irvine’s pickleball journey unfolds, her athleticism, competitive spirit, and experience in the sports industry position her for continued success.
Fans eagerly anticipate her performances on the court, as she continues to make a name for herself and contribute to the growth and excitement of pickleball.
6. Leigh Waters
Leigh Waters has established herself as one of the top women’s pickleball players, consistently delivering impressive performances on the court. As the mother of Anna Leigh Waters, she forms a formidable duo with her daughter, making the Waters one of the most formidable pairs in the sport.
Known for her powerful playing style, Leigh Waters is a force to be reckoned with. Her ability to dictate points and control the game has earned her a reputation as a dominant player.
Whether it’s her strong serves, aggressive shot selection, or strategic court positioning, she consistently showcases her skills and leaves opponents struggling to keep up.
With her partnership with Anna Leigh, Leigh Waters demonstrates the power of their familial connection and the seamless coordination they bring to the court. Their chemistry and shared understanding of the game elevate their performance, making them a formidable presence in women’s doubles.
Leigh Waters has an immersive and powerful presence in the court. Her partnership with Anna Leigh made he one of the most prominent players in the league. Leigh Waters already left an exceptional mark on the pickleball community and fans can not wait for her next performances.
7. Simone Jardim
Simone Jardim is highly respected in the women’s pickleball community as one of the most accomplished female players in the sport. With an impressive career spanning several decades, Jardim has made a lasting impression on the pickleball world.
For four consecutive years, from 2016 to 2020, Jardim held the distinguished title of world No. 1 in the women’s rankings, proving her consistent dominance and exceptional skill set.
Before her success in pickleball, Jardim made significant contributions to tennis as the coach of Michigan State’s tennis team for seven years. Her coaching background and experience in high-level competition undoubtedly influenced her formidable skills and strategic approach on the pickleball court.
As a result of her remarkable achievements and dedication to the sport, Jardim is highly revered in women’s pickleball. Her influence and inspiration will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on the sport she loves, cementing her legacy as a veteran champion.
8. Parris Todd
At only 24 years old, Paris Todd has made an impressive transition from professional tennis to becoming one of the most promising talents in pickleball. Her natural athleticism and competitive spirit, developed on the tennis court, have propelled her rapid rise through the ranks of pickleball.
Todd is also known for her fashion expertise off the court, but it is her talent on the pickleball court that has captured the attention of fans and fellow players. She made headlines by defeating the formidable Anna Leigh Waters, showcasing her growing prowess and announcing herself as a serious contender in the sport.
As part of Team BLQK in Major League Pickleball, Todd continues to impress with her skill, finesse, and determination. Her ability to adapt her tennis background to the unique challenges of pickleball has quickly established her as a force to be reckoned with on the court.
Paris Todd’s remarkable journey from tennis pro to rising star in pickleball is a testament to her dedication and talent. With each match, she continues to make waves in the pickleball community, leaving fans eager to witness her future accomplishments and the impact she will undoubtedly have on the sport.
9. Callie Smith
Callie Smith, a former standout tennis star at the University of Utah, has made a seamless transition into the world of professional pickleball since turning pro in 2019. Her background in tennis has provided her with a solid foundation of skills and athleticism that she has successfully translated into the pickleball court.
Teaming up with Catherine Parenteau, Smith has found tremendous success in doubles play. Their partnership has proven to be a winning combination, consistently propelling them to the top ranks of women’s pickleball.
Smith’s ability to complement her partner’s strengths and contribute her own versatile playing style has cemented her reputation as a valuable asset on the court.
With regular appearances in the top 5 rankings across women’s divisions, Callie Smith’s skill and determination continue to make a mark in the pickleball community.
Her strategic play, combined with her competitive drive, positions her as a formidable presence in the sport. As she continues to hone her skills and compete at the highest level, fans eagerly anticipate her future performances and the impact she will continue to have in the world of pickleball.
10. Irina Tereschenko
Irina Tereschenko is a seasoned competitor with over 20 years of experience in racquet sports. Irina considers herself a veteran in the field and she always brings a wealth of knowledge and skills to the field.
Tereschenko comes from Russia and she made herself a remarkable pickleball player. She has already won 5 major championship titles, and she places herself at the top of the list.
Prior to her success in pickleball, Tereschenko played college tennis at Texas Tech University, where she further honed her skills and developed a strong competitive spirit.
Irina Tereschenko, with her extensive experience and championship record, is making a significant contribution to the pickleball community.
She is an inspiration to aspiring players and a reminder that dedication and hard work pay off. Fans are excited to see her compete at the highest level and eagerly anticipate her performances and the legacy she will leave in the world of pickleball.
11. Michelle Esquivel
Michelle Esquivel is a dynamic and dominant force in the world of pickleball. With a background in tennis, she seamlessly transitioned to pickleball and quickly established herself as a top player.
Known for her agility, versatility, and strategic gameplay, Esquivel excels in both singles and doubles competitions. Her athleticism and adaptability make her a formidable opponent on the court.
Beyond her individual success, Esquivel has formed strong partnerships in mixed doubles, showcasing her ability to work harmoniously with top male players. Her contributions extend beyond her own game, as she actively engages with the pickleball community through coaching and clinics.
Michelle Esquivel’s exceptional skills and passion for the sport have solidified her position among the best pickleball players. As she continues to compete and inspire others, her influence on the sport will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact.
These 21 players are highly skilled, passionate, and exhibit excellent sportsmanship in the constantly changing world of pickleball.
Their dedication to mastering the game, pushing boundaries, and inspiring others is a testament to the growth and excitement surrounding pickleball.
As we witness their thrilling matches, dynamic strategies, and remarkable athleticism, we can’t help but be captivated by the sheer talent and tenacity displayed on the court.
These players have not only elevated the level of competition but also helped propel pickleball into the spotlight as a thrilling and accessible sport for players of all ages and skill levels.
The future of pickleball looks bright with these 21 individuals leading the charge. Their relentless commitment to the sport, combined with their relentless pursuit of excellence, will continue to shape and redefine the boundaries of what is possible in pickleball.
