The PPA Returns to Florida: Highlights and Controversies

The PPA was back in Florida fresh from a record-breaking tournament at Worlds. Anna Leigh Waters sought to extend her win streak, but faced a challenge from Salome Devidze, the last to beat her. Hunter Johnson aimed to reclaim the World #1 singles ranking, but would a controversial call derail him? And why did Ben Johns, Christian Alshon, Jaume Martinez Vich, and Max Freeman withdraw from singles?

Pre-Tournament Announcements

The International Tour Wars saw progress with the Global Pickleball Federation and United World Pickleball Federation forming a task force to unify them — a major step toward Olympic inclusion. Worlds set records with 60,000 fans and 4,400 players attending. The 2026 PPA schedule is out, so use the discount code below to save money when you join the fun! The Transition Zone just hit 300 members; sign up by November 30 for the best pricing, as prices increase soon.

Singles Showdowns

Hunter Johnson needed a strong finish to retake the #1 ranking from Federico Staksrud. The tournament introduced the “semifinal Saturday” format with singles starting Wednesday. Big names Ben Johns, Jaume Martinez Vich, Max Freeman, and others withdrew—were they injured or just opting out of singles? This trend of withdrawing is troubling, as it affects fans and rising players. 61 players signed up for the men's singles qualifier, with entries from England, Colombia, and beyond.

The day was full of surprises: Anouar Braham took out Rafa Hewett, only to fall to Noe Kliff later. Kliff then defeated Staksrud, the new World #1. Yates Johnson upset Looch, while Eric Oncins delivered an incredible win over Chris Haworth. Oncins’s potential is vast — could this be his singles breakthrough? Then, Luca Mack made it to his first semifinal amidst controversy, with a disputed line call in a key match.

Women’s Singles and More Controversies

In women’s singles, Anna Leigh Waters faced Salome Devidze for the first time in over a year. Despite dropping the first game, Waters bounced back to win. Elsewhere, Victoria DiMuzio upset Mary Brascia, and Lea Jansen made a comeback against Kate Fahey.

On Thursday, those who withdrew from singles miraculously recovered to play mixed doubles. It may be easier to sustain certain injuries in doubles, but it’s not fair to deny opportunities to eager qualifiers by pulling out last minute.

Thursday’s surprises included Ryan Fu and Lacy Schneeman upsetting James Ignatowich and Mari Humberg. Anna Bright teamed with Eric Oncins for the ninth time in mixed doubles this year, sparking conversation about her ever-evolving partnerships.

Exciting Doubles Action

Friday was loaded with doubles excitement. On the men’s side, Ryan Fu and Tama Shimabukaro surprised Donald Young and Travis Rettenmaier. In women's doubles, Catherine and Etta were the standouts, falling to Kate and Tina. The Kawamotos reunited for the first time since an epic Cincinnati Open title run and continued their strong form.

Semifinal Saturday and Sunday Showdowns

Anna Leigh Waters had a straightforward win against Brooke Buckner, while Zoey Wang secured her first domestic singles medal. In men’s singles, Roscoe Bellamy defeated Noe Kliff and advanced to face Hunter Johnson, who was looking to reclaim his top spot.

Mixed highlights saw Ben and Anna Leigh take care against Anna and Eric, with Rachel and Andrei losing a thrilling match to the Johnsons. Anna Leigh and Anna Bright dominated as expected, advancing further.

Sunday's mixed doubles had Ben and Anna Leigh against Jorja and JW for the 25th time, retaining their dominant record. Hunter Johnson and Roscoe Bellamy clashed in men’s singles, with a controversial call affecting the outcome, resulting in Roscoe's first PPA title amidst the drama.

Finally, Anna Leigh and Anna Bright were determined not to repeat past losses, cruising to victory against their competitors. Gabe and Ben displayed their strong form, closing an action-packed tournament with major wins across the board.

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