Becoming a professional athlete is often seen as a glamorous pursuit, filled with fame, travel, and the thrill of competition. But for pro pickleball players like Ben Johns, there is much more beneath the surface. In a recent discussion, Johns shared a candid look into the realities of life on the PPA Tour, shedding light on the challenges and rewards that come with the territory.

The Travel Grind

"You're constantly on the move, traveling from one tournament to another," says Johns. He elaborates that this usually means participating in one to three tournaments each month. While traveling across the U.S. to play pickleball sounds exciting, the reality is quite exhausting. Johns points out that frequent flights and changing locations take a toll, making it essential to arrive at tournaments well in advance. "I rarely travel the day before I play because it wears you down," he admits. For Johns, a typical four-day tournament can turn into a six-day travel ordeal, highlighting a hidden aspect of professional pickleball that many overlook.

Maintaining Balance

Sticking to a schedule amid constant travel is another challenge. Johns emphasizes the importance of adjusting sleep schedules based on time zones and maintaining a healthy diet. "Hydrating while you're flying is huge for staying engaged the next day," he notes. Despite the challenges, Johns has developed strategies to cope, from prioritizing good nutrition even with limited airport food options to leveraging TSA PreCheck and CLEAR to streamline airport security processes. These little hacks make the travel grind slightly more bearable.

The Professional Team

Johns feels fortunate to have a dedicated team that travels with him, including a manager and a physical therapist. "It's like having a box on the tennis court," he says, highlighting how this support system has elevated his professionalism and focus. The physical therapist's role is particularly crucial as tournaments become more competitive, ensuring that Johns can take care of his body and perform at his best.

Camaraderie Amongst the Pros

Despite the competitive nature of the sport, Johns finds camaraderie among fellow pro players. "Even though tournaments are less social now, there's still quite a bit of camaraderie," he says. Pro players often hang out in the pro lounge, maintaining relationships while preparing to compete. For Johns, switching from socializing off the court to game mode on the court comes naturally. "It's important to relax and be normal until you need to be ready to perform," he adds, debunking the myth that top athletes must always be in the zone.

The Future of Pickleball

Looking ahead, Johns acknowledges that as the sport grows, the sense of camaraderie might evolve. "It used to be more social, almost like a party," he reminisces, noting that the sport's increasing professionalism has made players more serious about their careers. However, he believes that even as competition intensifies, the shared experience of playing pickleball will continue to foster a sense of community among players.

Advice for Aspiring Pros

As a role model for many aspiring pickleball athletes, Johns offers encouraging advice. "Whatever your goals are, the journey is going to be enjoyable, so make sure you're having fun," he advises. He believes that with enough hard work and time, almost anyone can achieve their goals in pickleball, given the sport's rapid growth and opportunities. His message is clear: pursue your dreams with dedication, but don't forget to enjoy the ride.

Final Thoughts

Johns leaves his fans and fellow players with a reminder to keep things in perspective. "Never take anything too seriously. Pickleball is incredibly fun and enjoyable, so make sure you're enjoying it," he says. His passion for the sport and his grounded approach to professional life are evident as he encourages everyone to find joy in their pickleball journey.

In conclusion, being a professional pickleball player like Ben Johns involves much more than meets the eye. The travel, the discipline, the support system, and the camaraderie all play vital roles in shaping the life of a pro. Johns' insights offer a glimpse into the realities of this growing sport, inspiring both current and aspiring players to embrace the challenges and cherish the joys of playing pickleball at the highest level.