
Will Ben Johns and Gabe Tardio DOMINATE in 2025? Zane’s Takes
Ben Johns and Gabe Tario: A New Powerhouse in Pickleball for 2025
As 2025 kicks off, the pickleball world is buzzing with excitement about a new partnership that’s set to shake up the game. World number one player Ben Johns has announced that he will be joining forces with Bolivian teenager Gabe Tario. Gabe, who recently signed a lucrative three-year, $800,000 deal with the Professional Pickleball Association (PPA), will bring fresh energy and aggression to the court, potentially changing the way Ben plays. Together, this duo promises to be a force to be reckoned with.
What Will Change for Ben with Gabe?
For years, Ben Johns has partnered with Colin Johns, and their style of play has been well-established. Their game was built on deep returns and a strong, traditional dinking pattern. Ben’s powerful backhand out of the air and his excellent shot selection were complemented by Colin’s ability to transition quickly and effectively. But now, with Gabe Tario in the mix, things are likely to shift dramatically.
While Colin is known for his strong transitional play and solid third-shot drops, Gabe brings a more aggressive style to the table. Gabe is particularly known for his poaching pressure from the right side of the court and his preference for powerful, dipping drives. His third-shot approach is also far more aggressive than Colin’s, leaning toward hybrid drives rather than traditional drops. This will allow Ben to focus more on his clean-up role in the middle of the court, while Gabe’s offensive play from the right side keeps opponents on their toes.
Shifting Dinking Patterns: A New Dynamic
The dinking game has always been crucial in doubles pickleball, and Ben and Gabe will likely bring a fresh take on this aspect of their game. Ben and Colin were known for their traditional crosscourt dink patterns. While effective, it could sometimes become predictable, especially when Colin was dinking. Gabe, however, is known for his ability to misdirect shots down the line, creating a much more dynamic and unpredictable pattern. This could open up opportunities for both players to attack with more variety and precision.
Ben’s ability to flick the backhand and Gabe’s aggressive forehand will also force opponents into making tough decisions on where to place their shots. The only “safe” spot on the court will likely be a dink to Ben’s backhand, though even that may not always be a reliable option. With Gabe’s aggressive playstyle and Ben’s versatility, opponents will have to work hard to find an effective strategy to break through this newly-formed partnership.
The Threat of Poaching and Defensive Skills
One of the most exciting aspects of Gabe joining Ben on the court is the added poaching pressure Gabe will bring from the right side. Gabe has proven himself to be a formidable defensive player, and his strong hands will allow him to intercept more shots and put pressure on opponents who try to get past him. This will give Ben more freedom to focus on his central position, knowing that Gabe has the right side covered.
However, there’s a bit of uncertainty about how the two will adjust to each other’s court positioning and coverage. Gabe takes up significantly more court space from the right side than almost anyone else in the sport, and this could lead to some growing pains early in their partnership. There may be confusion in the beginning over who takes responsibility for middle shots, and some miscommunication may occur.
Early Challenges and Growing Pains
No partnership is without its challenges, especially when players with different styles and strengths come together. For instance, opponents will likely test Ben’s corner, attacking his backhand and trying to exploit any weaknesses they find. There’s also the possibility that teams will aim for middle shots to test how well Gabe and Ben communicate and adjust.
However, once the two players work out these early adjustments, the combination of Ben’s experience and Gabe’s raw talent is likely to make them a dominant force in 2025. Ben, who no longer has to cover as much of the court, can focus on executing his skills in the middle, while Gabe continues to control the right side. This balance could make them incredibly hard to beat, as their offensive and defensive capabilities complement each other perfectly.
Looking Ahead: Dominance in 2025?
As the 2025 season unfolds, it’s clear that Ben and Gabe will be a team to watch. Their synergy and complementary playing styles have the potential to bring a new dimension to pickleball. The first half of 2025 will likely see them take the court with a renewed sense of power and precision, dominating the competition as they fine-tune their partnership.
The recent surge in parity within the men’s division in 2024 has made things more interesting, but there’s something exciting about having the world’s best team—now with a new, youthful twist—showcasing what the next level of pickleball looks like.
Whether they find immediate success or experience some growing pains, one thing is certain: the Ben Johns-Gabe Tario partnership is set to redefine the game, and it will be thrilling to watch how they evolve together.
What Do You Think?
Are you excited about this new partnership? How do you think Ben and Gabe will fare in 2025? Let us know in the comments below!