Breaking: An Open Letter From Simone Jardim To Ben Johns, Fans And The Entire pickleball Community….. Read more

Dear Ben, Fans, and Fellow Pickleball Enthusiasts,

I am writing this open letter with a heartfelt sense of reflection, gratitude, and hope. As someone who has dedicated countless hours to the sport of pickleball, I believe it is important to share my thoughts openly with all of you—those who have supported, challenged, and inspired me along the way.

Ben, first and foremost, I want to acknowledge your incredible talent, relentless determination, and sportsmanship. Your rise in the pickleball world has been nothing short of remarkable, and you have become a benchmark for excellence in the sport. I have admired your dedication and the way you carry yourself both on and off the court. It’s clear that your passion for pickleball fuels your relentless pursuit of greatness, and I have no doubt you will continue to push the sport forward in exciting ways.

To the fans—your unwavering support and enthusiasm are the lifeblood of pickleball. Whether you are a seasoned veteran or a curious newcomer, your energy and love for the game make this sport vibrant and meaningful. Your cheers, your dedication to learning, and your encouragement inspire all of us to keep improving, to stay humble, and to foster a community built on respect and shared passion.

And to the entire pickleball community—coaches, players, organizers, volunteers, and fans alike—I want to express my deep appreciation for the camaraderie and spirit that make this sport so special. Pickleball is more than just a game; it is a community that unites us through shared joy, perseverance, and sportsmanship. We have the power to shape its future, to make it inclusive, and to ensure it continues to grow in a positive direction.

Over the years, I have experienced both triumphs and challenges in this sport. There have been moments of victory that filled me with pride, as well as setbacks that tested my resilience. Throughout it all, I have learned that the true essence of pickleball lies in its ability to bring people together, to teach us about discipline, humility, and the importance of community.

Looking ahead, I believe that our sport has immense potential. As players and supporters, we hold the responsibility to uphold the integrity of pickleball, to promote fair play, and to foster an environment where everyone feels welcome. We must continue to educate ourselves, embrace diversity, and support initiatives that make the game accessible to all, regardless of age, background, or skill level.

Ben, I want to encourage you—and all players—to remain humble and respectful, regardless of wins or losses. Our sport thrives on sportsmanship and mutual respect. Let’s use our platforms to inspire the next generation of players, to promote kindness, and to demonstrate that competition can coexist with camaraderie.

To the fans and community members, I urge you to continue supporting the sport with enthusiasm and fairness. Attend tournaments, cheer for players, and promote positive interactions both online and offline. Your voices matter—they can help shape a culture that values respect, inclusivity, and continuous growth.

In closing, I want to say thank you to everyone who has been part of my pickleball journey. The memories, friendships, and lessons learned are invaluable. I am excited for what the future holds and look forward to seeing how our sport evolves. Whether on the court or in the stands, let’s commit ourselves to fostering a community rooted in respect, passion, and shared love for pickleball.

Together, we can elevate this sport to new heights and ensure it remains a source of joy and connection for generations to come.