BREAKING NEWS: Pickleball Star Ben Johns Donates Entire $7.7 Million Bonus and Endorsement Deal to Charity and Homelessness Relief
In a stunning act of generosity that is making waves far beyond the pickleball court, world-renowned athlete Ben Johns has announced that he is donating his entire $7.7 million bonus and endorsement earnings to a network of charities and organizations focused on homelessness relief, youth development, and community support.
The donation includes recent bonuses from tournament wins and a high-profile endorsement package signed earlier this year with multiple major sportswear and equipment brands. In a press statement released Tuesday morning, Johns confirmed the total value of the donation and revealed that 100% of the funds would be distributed to nonprofits working on the front lines of housing insecurity, food assistance, mental health services, and after-school programs.
“It’s Bigger Than Sports”
“This is bigger than sports,” Johns said in a video posted to his social media accounts. “I’ve been incredibly blessed through this sport, but I want to use that platform to give back to the people who need it most. Homelessness and poverty touch every community, and it’s time we do more.”
Known as the top-ranked pickleball player in the world, Johns has spent the last several years dominating tournaments and gaining the attention of mainstream sponsors. His rise from a college athlete to the face of a rapidly growing sport has been nothing short of meteoric. But with his fame, he has also developed a strong reputation for humility, gratitude, and philanthropy.
“Every win I get on the court means nothing if I’m not helping others off the court,” he added.
A Targeted Impact
According to the press release, the $7.7 million donation will be split across several key national and local organizations:
- National Alliance to End Homelessness
- Feeding America
- Covenant House, which supports homeless youth
- Habitat for Humanity
- Local shelters and food banks in Austin, Texas—Johns’ home base
In addition, Johns will launch the Ben Johns Foundation for Dignity and Opportunity, a nonprofit dedicated to funding education, transitional housing, and workforce training programs for underserved communities.
Reactions Pour In
Social media erupted with praise and gratitude following the announcement. Athletes, fans, and community leaders have taken to platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram to thank Johns for his commitment to social good.
NBA legend and philanthropist LeBron James tweeted, “Much respect to @BenJohnsPB. This is what leadership looks like—on AND off the court.”
Pickleball organizations also applauded the move. The Professional Pickleball Association (PPA) released a statement calling Johns’ decision “an inspiration and a testament to the heart of our sport.”
Even some of Johns’ sponsors, who typically look to maximize ROI through exposure, expressed full support. One executive from a major brand said, “Ben represents what we want all athletes to strive for—not just success, but purpose.”
Not His First Time Giving Back
This isn’t the first time Johns has turned a victory into a moment of giving. In 2023, he donated $250,000 from a championship purse to veterans’ mental health services. He’s also volunteered extensively with youth mentoring programs and clinics teaching the sport in low-income neighborhoods.
Still, this latest act sets a new benchmark—not only in pickleball, but in professional sports at large.
Looking Ahead
When asked about his future, Johns responded simply: “I’ll keep playing, keep growing, and keep giving.”
As the world of pickleball continues to expand, so too does the legacy of one of its brightest stars—not just for his skill with a paddle, but for his compassion, leadership, and unwavering commitment to helping others.
Ben Johns may be the king of the court, but today, he’s the champion of humanity.
