I have done a lot: Ben Jones Revealed he will no longer be staying with pickleball anymore due to…
In a surprising announcement that’s left fans and fellow athletes stunned, Ben Jones has revealed that he will no longer be involved with pickleball. The well-known figure, regarded as one of the most influential voices and players in the sport, shared his decision through a heartfelt message earlier this week. Though the sport has seen incredible growth in recent years, Jones cited a mixture of personal reasons, shifting priorities, and industry-related frustrations as the catalysts behind his departure.
“I’ve given so much of myself to pickleball over the last decade,” Jones said in his statement. “But after a lot of reflection, I’ve realized it’s time to step away—not just from the competitive side, but from the sport altogether.”
Jones’ influence on pickleball can’t be overstated. He wasn’t just a top-tier player, but also a passionate advocate who helped legitimize the sport in mainstream athletic circles. From coaching emerging talent to organizing grassroots events and pushing for fair player compensation, Jones’ impact extended far beyond the court.
So why now? Why leave at the peak of popularity?
According to Jones, the decision didn’t come lightly. “There were a lot of moments in the past year where I started questioning my role,” he explained. “The game has changed—not necessarily in a bad way—but in ways that no longer align with my values or how I want to live my life.”
Among the reasons he shared, the increasing commercialization of the sport seemed to be a major factor. While the influx of money, sponsors, and corporate interest has helped propel pickleball into the national spotlight, Jones suggested that it’s also created a more cutthroat environment—one where authenticity and community often take a backseat to profit.
“I got into pickleball because I loved the camaraderie and the pure joy of the game,” he said. “Now, it’s starting to feel more like a business than a community. And I don’t want to lose myself in that.”
Personal growth and mental health were also key themes in his statement. Jones hinted at the toll the lifestyle has taken on his well-being. “The constant travel, the pressure to perform, the demands from sponsors, and even the noise on social media—it wears you down,” he admitted. “I’ve sacrificed a lot, and now I need to focus on my health, my family, and rediscovering who I am outside of pickleball.”
Despite his departure, Jones expressed deep gratitude for the experiences and relationships the sport has given him. “I’ve met some of the most incredible people through pickleball—friends who feel like family. I’ll carry those memories with me forever,” he wrote. “To the fans who’ve supported me, thank you. I hope I’ve made you proud.”
What’s next for Jones? While he hasn’t outlined a specific plan, he hinted at exploring creative projects, giving back to local communities, and possibly mentoring in other sports. “I’m not disappearing,” he reassured followers. “I’m just taking a different path now.”
The reaction from the pickleball world has been swift and emotional. Fellow players have taken to social media to express their admiration, share memories, and show support. Many noted that while Jones may be stepping away, his legacy will remain a central part of the sport’s history.
His departure marks a significant moment for pickleball, a reminder that even as the game grows, the people behind it remain human—with complex needs, dreams, and limits. While fans may feel the loss, there’s also a sense of respect for a man choosing authenticity over acclaim.
Ben Jones may be done with pickleball, but his story—and the mark he left—will echo on the courts for years to come.
