James Ignatowich

James Ignatowich is one of pickleball's most fascinating characters - a former top-5 nationally ranked junior tennis player who left Vanderbilt after two years because, in his words, pickleball was "just more exciting than tennis." Bold move for a kid from Darien, Connecticut, but it's paid off massively. Now based in Delray Beach, Florida, James has racked up 80+ pro tournaments, multiple gold medals, and a reputation as one of the most aggressive and cerebral players on tour. He's also the founder and CEO of RPM Pickleball, his own paddle company that he launched after his Selkirk contract expired.

What sets James apart is his obsessive approach to improvement. He's known for hitting up to 1,000 dinks a day in practice and brings a caffeine-fueled intensity to every match. He plays for the Chicago Slice in MLP and regularly partners with top-tier players in men's and mixed doubles. Beyond competing, he hosts The James Ignatowich Pickleball Show, one of the most popular pickleball podcasts, where he breaks down strategy, interviews pros, and occasionally roasts paddle technology. At 25, he's already built a mini-empire around the sport. Follow him on Instagram @jamesignatowich.