Pickleball continues to soar in popularity. Today, we’re spotlighting the best pickleball players in the world, showcasing the top 5 men and women who dominate the courts based on their DUPR ratings in doubles.
Rankings last updated January 7th, 2025.
Men's Top 5 Players
1. Ben Johns
- DUPR Rating: 7.341
Ben Johns remains the undisputed king of pickleball, excelling in singles, doubles, and mixed doubles. His precision, strategy, and unmatched consistency make him the top-rated male pickleball player in the world. Together with his brother, Collin Johns, they have been the top male players in the sport for a long time.
2. JW Johnson
- DUPR Rating: 7.142
JW Johnson has earned his spot among the elite with his calm demeanor and sharp, calculated gameplay. Known for his versatility, JW shines in both singles and doubles. Him and his sister, Jorja Johnson, are the only top 10 siblings in the world playing mixed doubles together. Their latest tournament being the PPA Masters in Mission Hills, CA.
3. Christian Alshon
- DUPR Rating: 7.072
Christian Alshon, widely known as “The Tweener King,” is a player to watch this 2025. After a pause due to injury, he has made an impressive comeback, climbing back into the top 10. Alshon’s aggressive playstyle and boundless energy make him a formidable opponent on the court.
4. Andrei Daescu
- DUPR Rating: 7.037
Andrei Daescu is renowned for his exceptional court presence and strategic doubles play. As a former tennis player, he brings powerful shots and stellar teamwork to his game. One of his latest achievements was clinching the title at the PPA Daytona alongside his doubles partner, CJ Klinger.
5. Federico Staksrud
- DUPR Rating: 7.011
Federico Staksrud is a powerhouse in both singles and doubles. His speed, agility, and mental toughness have propelled him to the top. In 2024, he briefly overtook Ben Johns as the world #1 in singles after a standout performance at the PPA Las Vegas. Staksrud’s steady rise in the rankings is a testament to his dedication and talent.
Women's Top 5 Players
1. Anna Leigh Waters
- DUPR Rating: 6.658
Anna Leigh Waters (ALW) is synonymous with pickleball in America. At just 18 years old, she continues to dominate the sport with her dynamic playstyle, quick reflexes, and relentless drive. As the top-rated female player in both singles and doubles, ALW remains the queen of the court.
2. Anna Bright
- DUPR Rating: 6.371
Anna Bright has rapidly climbed the ranks with her fierce competitiveness and versatile gameplay. Excelling in both singles and doubles, she consistently delivers standout performances. Recently, she and Rachel Rohrbacher shone at the 2024 Lapiplasty Pickleball World Championships.
3. Jorja Johnson
- DUPR Rating: 6.246
Jorja Johnson is one of the sport’s brightest young talents. At 18 years old, she has entered the top-5 world ranking in doubles. Jorja often competes on the pro tours in mixed doubles, together with her brother JW. Her latest achievement is earning 3rd place in Women’s Doubles at the PPA Masters in California, together with Tyra Hurricane Black.
4. Catherine Parenteau
- DUPR Rating: 6.177
Catherine Parenteau brings grace and strategy to the game. A former tennis player, she excels in both singles and doubles. Often teaming up with Anna Leigh Waters in doubles, and playing against her in singles the duo has dominated the women’s doubles circuit.
5. Rachel Rohrbacher
- DUPR Rating: 6.172
Rachel Rohrbacher has solidified her place among the elite with consistent performances and a keen sense of the game. Her strong doubles play, particularly alongside Anna Bright, makes this pairing a formidable force to watch on the pro circuit.
These top-rated pickleball players represent the pinnacle of the sport, showcasing unmatched talent, skill, and dedication. Whether you’re a fan or a player, these athletes inspire the pickleball community to strive for greatness. Check out these top players' 2024 DUPR End Of Year Stats!
Still want more? Check out the latest news from the pro tours at MLP’s and PPA’s official websites.