Pickleball has a vibrant community of 50+-year-old players. These players help mentor younger Pickleball stars and should be recognized just as much as the younger talent in the world. Furthermore, Pickleball is arguably growing faster among older Americans than any other age group. So who are the best older Pickleball players in the nation? Let’s find out.
Mens
Paul Olin
Another renowned pickleballer with a Tennis background, Paul Olin was introduced to the sport by a family member in the 2010s. From there, an addiction to the sport led to over 10 major medals and one of the more highly regarded Senior men’s Pickleball players in the country.
Dave Wienback
Dave Weinbach, aka “The Badger,” a professional pickleball player with 140 gold medals. He’s originally from Wisconsin and still can keep up with some of the younger world-class players. He still competes in professional tournaments and regularly wins. In his mid 50s, he is a Senior player that can still do damage along with some of his age and older.
David Spearman
David Spearman has been playing pickleball for a whopping 40+ years! At the young age of 58, the Seattle native still competes here and there at a high level. For example in 2021, he took home 1st place in the U.S Open in Senior Pro Singles.
Mattias Johanssen
Mattias is currently ranked #1 in the senior pro category on the World Pickleball rankings. He has an extensive background in playing and coaching tennis and was ranked #1 in the USTA National Singles rankings in 2019 after winning the National Hardcourt championships. In addition, he reached #17 in the world in 2020 according to ITF Ranking.
Rick Witsken
Rick Witsken’s career in pickleball has been nothing short of remarkable. Coming from a family deeply rooted in tennis, he has made a name for himself in pickleball, becoming the No. 1 ranked player in the U.S. in 40-and-over singles and doubles. He has represented Team USA multiple times and has an impressive collection of 15 Gold medals at the Pro level, including victories at the US Open. Rick’s dedication to the sport and his unmatched skills have solidified his place as one of the top players in the country.
Scott Moore
Scott Moore is the undisputed champ in the world of senior male players, holding the prestigious title of #1 since 2014.
Scott’s list of accomplishments is so long, it’ll make your head spin. Brace yourself: he’s a six-time Major Triple Crown Winner and has clinched the gold medal a mind-blowing 20 times at the USAPA National Championships.
In 2016, he conquered all six events and went on a winning streak from 2015 to 2017, bagging an incredible 12 straight victories. But wait, there’s more! He’s also snagged the US Open Championship 12 times, including a jaw-dropping eight consecutive wins. Oh, and let’s not forget his 12 TOC titles, with a whopping 10 victories in a row.
Dan Granot
Dan Granot is a broker by trade, and one of the best Pickleball players in the world on the side. After trying it, he found himself enjoying the game and became motivated to improve. Despite setbacks, such as a ruptured Achilles in 2019, Granot has become one of the top pickleball players nationally among those over 50, consistently ranking in the top 10. His interest in the sport has also brought him new business opportunities and clients seeking pickleball court real estate. Granot balances his pickleball pursuits with his full-time work, managing his time efficiently and dedicating himself to both endeavors.
Womens
Julie Johnson
Julie Johnson, a 51-year-old senior pro from Boynton Beach, Florida, is a skilled pickleball player with a recreational tennis background. Her biggest weapon is her forehand drive, and she emphasizes focus in pickleball. Julie’s children, JW and Jorja, are talented players as well. She is a well-respected coach and accomplished player in the community helping to grow the sport through her extraordinary coaching and passion for the sport.
Jennifer Dawson
With over 20 US Open, National, and TOC doubles and singles titles to her credit, Jennifer is one of the most recognized pickleball figures in the world. Having played tennis for over 30 years, she quickly rose to the top of pickleball and became the first professional pickleball triple crown champion by winning the US Open professional pickleball championship in every category.
Jen Lassandro
Jen Lassandro, a former standout tennis player, has made a significant impact in the world of pickleball. Ranked fifth in the world for pro senior women’s singles and 25th in women’s senior pro doubles, she has excelled in the sport. Lassandro’s two-handed backhand, a strength she developed in tennis, proves to be a formidable weapon on the pickleball court. Embracing pickleball’s competitive opportunities, she plays the sport every day and frequently participates in tournaments across the country. Her dedication to pickleball, coupled with her tennis background, has propelled her to success and recognition in the pickleball community.
Nathalie Bagby
Nathalie Bagby is another former Trnnis player who found Pickleball. She has consistently been in the top 10 rankings over the last few years and continues to impress with her play.
Eva Welsher
Eva Welsher, the top women’s senior professional pickleball player, has had a remarkable journey in the sport. With a background in junior tennis and platform tennis, she discovered pickleball later in life. Eva’s tennis skills and competitive experience served as a solid foundation for her success in pickleball.