In a surprising turn of events, top-ranked pickleball duo Ben Johns and Collin Johns have officially withdrawn from their remaining matches at the Major League Pickleball (MLP) Columbus event. The announcement was made Friday afternoon, with the Johns brothers citing serious concerns over the lighting conditions at the venue as the reason behind their decision to step away.
According to sources close to the situation, the lighting on the courts failed to meet the standards necessary for safe and high-level competition, prompting the brothers to raise their concerns with MLP officials. After further discussions and evaluations, Ben and Collin ultimately made the difficult decision to forfeit the rest of their scheduled matches, prioritizing player safety and fair competition over continuing to play in subpar conditions.
The withdrawal of the Johns brothers — widely considered two of the most elite players in professional pickleball — is a major blow to the tournament. Not only were they expected to be strong contenders for the title, but their presence also draws significant fan attention and media coverage. Their absence leaves a noticeable gap in the competitive field and raises important questions about venue preparedness and facility standards at major pickleball events.
MLP has not yet released a detailed statement in response to the withdrawal, though officials have acknowledged the situation and are reportedly reviewing the lighting issue. Meanwhile, fans and fellow players alike have expressed disappointment but have largely supported the brothers’ decision, recognizing the importance of player safety in ensuring the sport continues to grow with integrity.
