East Meets West: Venise Chan Interviews Ben Johns
Welcome to another edition of “East Meets West,” where Hong Kong-based pickleball pro Venise Chan asks questions to America-based pickleball pros. Today, she’s chatting with Ben Johns, the unbeatable World No. 1 ranked singles, doubles, and mixed doubles player!
Venise Chan: What is the extra work that you do that you think differentiates you from the rest of the pickleball players?
Ben Johns: Analyzing the game of other pickleball players.
Venise Chan: What do you think is the most important pickleball etiquette?
Ben Johns: Positivity!
Venise Chan: What is something that you haven’t told the world about you and pickleball?
Ben Johns: I consider pickleball to be the greatest form of meeting interesting people that I’ve ever encountered.
Venise Chan: Do you feel pressure while sitting at the number 1 ranking? Like every player out there wants to beat you?
Ben Johns: Yes and no. I’d call it pressure in a good way. It is a privilege to be where I am, and of course I want to maintain it.
Venise Chan: What is your next big goal?
Ben Johns: Don’t lose. At all!
Venise Chan: Do you prefer singles, doubles or mixed doubles and why?
Ben Johns: I love variety. If I’m ever tired of one I know I’ll enjoy the others.
Venise Chan: Could you describe a moment in your life or in a pickleball match that you wished you would have made a different decision? And Why?
Ben Johns: I have no regrets in life.
Venise Chan: Would you like to come to Asia and show us your skills and play tournaments in Asia, perhaps partner with me one day?
Ben Johns: I haven’t visited Asia yet, so I would be happy to and I’m sure I will. If time permits certainly I’ll partner with you!
Venise Chan: Thank you very much for your time! Good luck in all your future games! We will be rooting for you!
