I’m Not John McEnroe – 23-Year-Old American Breakout Pickleball Star Takes a Peek at His Real Self

Pickleball is a sport that has similarities to tennis and table tennis. Both tennis and table tennis are highly competitive sports. Competition aside, they are incredibly demanding by nature, both physically and mentally. Kids who have grown up loving tennis but don’t have the stamina and tenacity to play it like pickleball as an alternative sport.

Pickleball star Ben Johns also has a similar story of falling in love with the sport. He has become a top player in the sport in no time. However, he believes in keeping a quiet profile instead of someone like John McEnroe. Here’s what he had to say about his style of play.

More about Björn Borg than John McEnroe

Speaking about his playing style, the most successful pickleball player said that he is not as expressive as former American tennis star John McEnroe. Instead, he draws comparisons with someone like former Swedish tennis star Bjorn Borg. Here’s what he said.

That’s what I prefer. Apologies to the titans of tennis, I’m not John McEnroe. I’m more like Björn Borg.

During his playing days, McEnroe was quite popular not only for his tennis skills but also for his behavior. The American often argued with his opponents and referees, and had several falls mid-match. What made him unique was his hot-headed demeanor fueled by an aggressive approach to his game. On the other hand, players like Bjorn Borg quietly went about their business on the field.

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No one approach is a surefire way to success. The player has to evaluate himself and decide what suits him better. For Johns, it was the way of the Borg.

Tennis players move to pickleball

Because of the tough physical competition and heavy competition, many tennis players turn their heads to the pickle ball.

Pickleball allows them to play the sport at the highest level, but it also utilizes their tennis skills. Although the tennis player was less physically demanding and had a shorter court length, the most recent tennis player to be added to this list was former Wimbledon Junior Champion Noah Rubin. Earlier this year, the 26-year-old decided go tennis to pursue a career in pickle ball.

Check out this story: The Funny Meaning of Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, Novak Djokovic and Serena Williams at Urban Dictionary!

It will be interesting to see how tennis holds its players as the pickleball challenge continues to grow. Will we see more tennis players transitioning to salt ball? Let us know what you think in the comments section.