On July 24th, 2021, the pickleball world witnessed an exciting event as the Professional Pickleball Association (PPA) hosted the inaugural PPA Pickleball Invitational at the legendary Lakeshore Park in Naples, Florida. This groundbreaking tournament brought together some of the sport's top professional players, showcasing their skills and competitiveness on a grand stage.

The event featured a thrilling mixed doubles final between the powerhouse duo of Ben Johns and Simone Jardim against the formidable pair of Tyson McGuffin and Lauren Stratman. The match was a nail-biter, with both teams displaying incredible athleticism, precision, and strategic play. Johns and Jardim, known for their exceptional chemistry and dominance on the court, faced a tough challenge from McGuffin and Stratman, who brought their A-game and pushed the favorites to their limits.

In a back-and-forth battle that kept spectators on the edge of their seats, Johns and Jardim managed to secure a hard-fought victory, winning the match 11-9, 9-11, 11-7. The intensity and quality of the play demonstrated the growing popularity and competitiveness of professional pickleball, captivating fans and garnering attention from sports enthusiasts worldwide.

The PPA Pickleball Invitational not only showcased the sport's top talent but also highlighted the rapid growth and increasing professionalization of pickleball. The event attracted a significant number of spectators, both in-person and through live streaming, further solidifying pickleball's position as one of the fastest-growing sports in the United States.

Moreover, the tournament's success paved the way for future high-profile pickleball events and helped elevate the sport's status in the eyes of potential sponsors and media partners. The PPA Pickleball Invitational on July 24th, 2021, will forever be remembered as a milestone moment in pickleball history, showcasing the sport's immense potential and the incredible talent of its professional players.