Federico Staksrud Falls to Ben Johns in Mesa

Federico Staksrud giving his all in Mesa AZ against Ben Johns (Picture Kerry Pittenger)

Federico faced Ben Johns in the Men’s finals today in Mesa, Arizona. Despite his efforts, Federico lost in two straight games, 11-8, 11-4, signaling Ben Johns’s return to dominance. This is Ben’s first singles title this year, but it won’t be the last time we see Federico. Here’s why:

Federico Staksrud, a 28 year old based in Naples, Florida, went pro in 2021. He’s ranked #2 in the world, but before his rise in Pickleball, Staksrud was working at a software company while simultaneously teaching tennis and pursuing a master’s degree in Information Systems. Staksrud’s career in pickleball is already marked by numerous highlights, though.

• 2023 PPA Carvana Arizona Grand Slam: Gold in Men’s Pro Doubles with JW Johnson.
• 2023 OS1st North Carolina Open: Gold in Men’s Pro Doubles with Dylan Frazier.
• 2023 PPA Florida Open: Another gold, teaming up with JW Johnson.
• 2023 PPA Baird Wealth Management Open: Silver in Men’s Pro Singles, showcasing his versatility.
• 2023 PPA Orange County Cup: Silver in Men’s Pro Doubles with Dylan Frazier.
• 2023 PPA Takeya Showcase: Bronze in Men’s Pro Doubles, maintaining his podium streak.

In 2024, Federico Staksrud has started strong on the circuit:

• Mens Pro Singles Gold at the 2024 Desert Ridge Open in Phoenix, AZ, where he stood out as the champion.
• Mens Pro Doubles Bronze, partnering with Pablo Tellez, at the 2024 PPA Hyundai Masters in Rancho Mirage, CA. This event saw Ben Johns and Collin Johns taking the gold.
• Additionally, Federico claimed Mens Pro Singles Silver at the same 2024 PPA Hyundai Masters, with Dylan Frazier clinching the gold.

Federico’s outcome today adds another layer to the competitive saga but his journey is far from over. As the year progresses, I expect to see more encounters between these two athletes.