I’m leaving: pickleball best player of all time Ben Jones has officially announced his retirement due to his personal reasons to…
In a stunning announcement that has sent ripples throughout the pickleball community, Ben Jones, widely regarded as the greatest pickleball player of all time, has officially announced his retirement from the sport. The 35-year-old athlete, known for redefining the game with his powerful play, precision, and charisma, cited personal reasons for stepping away from professional competition.
“After much thought and reflection, I have decided to retire from professional pickleball,” Jones shared in an emotional statement. “This decision wasn’t easy, but it’s time for me to focus on my personal life, my family, and new challenges ahead.”
For fans and followers of the sport, Jones’ retirement marks the end of a golden era. Known for his unmatched agility, court awareness, and strategic mastery, Ben Jones dominated the pickleball world for over a decade. From the moment he burst onto the scene, his rise was meteoric. He didn’t just play the game—he elevated it.
A Career Defined by Excellence
Ben Jones’ list of accolades is staggering. Over his illustrious career, he won more than 50 major titles, including seven U.S. Open Pickleball Championships, five National Championships, and countless Pro Tour victories. He was a consistent presence at the top of the global rankings, often holding the No. 1 spot in both singles and doubles simultaneously—a feat rarely achieved in the sport’s history.
Perhaps what truly set Jones apart was his ability to evolve. As pickleball gained popularity and attracted younger, more athletic players, Jones adapted his game. He was a student of the sport, constantly refining his technique and mental approach. Whether it was a blistering forehand, a pinpoint lob, or a perfectly timed kitchen-line dink, Jones executed each shot with surgical precision.
His partnership with doubles teammate Andre Mendoza is also the stuff of legend. The duo formed one of the most feared and successful pairings in pickleball history, claiming back-to-back titles at nearly every major tournament they entered.
Impact Beyond the Court
But Jones’ legacy isn’t only built on championships. He played a pivotal role in bringing pickleball into the mainstream. As the sport transitioned from a niche pastime to a global sensation, Jones became its ambassador. His approachable personality, sportsmanship, and commitment to community outreach helped break down barriers and attract fans of all ages.
Through camps, clinics, and his youth development foundation, Jones inspired thousands to pick up a paddle. His influence is visible in the new generation of players who idolized him and now carry the torch forward.
“Ben is the reason I started playing,” said pro player Tyler Rhodes, currently ranked No. 3 in the world. “Watching him compete, how he carried himself on and off the court—it was inspiring. We all wanted to be like Ben.”
A Sudden Goodbye
Jones’ announcement, while respectful and composed, left many fans and fellow players surprised. There had been whispers about his recent absence from the tour, but few expected an immediate and full retirement. In his statement, Jones hinted at private matters that needed his full attention, though he declined to elaborate.
“I’ve given this sport everything I have, and it’s given me more than I ever imagined,” he wrote. “But there are other roles I need to embrace right now—ones that don’t involve travel schedules, constant training, and the intense pressure of competition.”
Despite the suddenness of the news, the pickleball world has responded with an outpouring of gratitude and support. Social media flooded with tributes, highlight reels, and heartfelt messages from fans, fellow pros, and sports organizations.
What’s Next?
While Jones may be stepping away from professional play, he made it clear that he’s not walking away from the sport entirely. In his farewell message, he hinted at continuing his work with youth programs and possibly mentoring the next generation of champions.
“There’s so much talent out there, and if I can help shape the future of this game in any way, I’ll consider that another victory,” he said.
Though his retirement leaves a competitive void, Ben Jones’ impact will be felt for decades. His passion, skill, and sportsmanship helped shape modern pickleball, and his name will undoubtedly live on in the sport’s history books.
