BEN JOHNS: Bronze Statue Honoring Pickleball Legend Ben Johns Unveiled In Annapolis, Commemorating His Historic Contribution To Pickleball Development.

BEN JOHNS IMMORTALIZED: Bronze Statue Honoring Pickleball Legend Unveiled in Annapolis, Celebrating His Unmatched Impact on the Sport

In a historic and emotional ceremony, a bronze statue of pickleball icon Ben Johns was officially unveiled in his hometown of Annapolis, Maryland, paying tribute to the athlete widely regarded as the greatest player in pickleball history. The monument stands as a powerful symbol of his extraordinary achievements and enduring legacy, honoring not only his success on the court but also his pivotal role in elevating the sport to international prominence.

Set against the scenic backdrop of Annapolis’ bustling waterfront, the statue captures Johns in mid-action — paddle in hand, eyes focused, feet set — perfectly embodying the poise, athleticism, and intensity that have defined his illustrious career. Fans, local officials, fellow players, and members of the pickleball community gathered for the unveiling, many of them visibly moved by the occasion.

“This isn’t just a statue. It’s a celebration of a pioneer who helped transform a backyard game into a global sport,” said Annapolis Mayor Gavin Buckley, who called Johns “a homegrown hero and international ambassador.”

Ben Johns, who began playing pickleball as a teenager, quickly rose through the ranks and became the face of the sport. With over 100 professional titles, countless No. 1 rankings in singles, doubles, and mixed doubles, and an unmatched win streak, Johns’ dominance is unprecedented. Yet what makes him truly iconic is not just his accolades but his humility, sportsmanship, and passion for growing the game.

In his speech at the unveiling, Johns reflected on his journey. “I never imagined that hitting a plastic ball with a paddle would lead to this. I’m grateful for every person who supported me and for the chance to be part of something bigger than myself — the growth of pickleball into a sport that brings people together.”

The statue was commissioned by the USA Pickleball Association in partnership with local donors and the city of Annapolis. It will serve as both a tourist attraction and a lasting inspiration to athletes of all ages.

As pickleball continues to skyrocket in popularity around the world, Ben Johns’ statue stands as a timeless reminder of the man who helped start it all — a legend now quite literally set in bronze.