Chris Haworth Captures PPA Finals Gold and Confirms a New Era in Men’s Singles
Men’s singles in professional pickleball may officially be entering a new era.
Chris Haworth reinforced that reality this weekend in San Clemente, California, defeating John Lucian Goins 11-2, 11-8 in the men’s singles final at the 2026 Toys “R” Us PPA Finals and closing another dominant week on one of the biggest stages of the season.
But beyond the scoreline, the real story is the message this championship sends.
Haworth no longer looks like a surprise contender or simply the hottest player on tour. Right now, he looks like the player everyone else is chasing.
From the opening rally of the final, the American controlled the pace of the match with relentless pressure and aggressive shot-making. The first game quickly turned into a statement performance as Goins struggled to establish rhythm against Haworth’s speed and intensity from the baseline.
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The opening 11-2 game immediately set the tone.
Goins responded much better in the second game, extending rallies and forcing several physical exchanges that briefly shifted momentum. But every time the match appeared to open a small window of opportunity, Haworth responded with authority.
His combination of court coverage, power, and ability to accelerate the tempo once again proved too much to handle.
With the victory, Haworth continues to build one of the most impressive seasons in professional pickleball, adding the PPA Finals title to a growing collection of major wins that already includes The Masters, Mesa Cup, Greater Zion, and Atlanta.
Perhaps the most impressive detail of the entire week is that Haworth actually suffered a loss during pool play before ultimately lifting the trophy in San Clemente.
Instead of shaking his confidence, the setback appeared to unlock an even more aggressive version of the world No. 1, who later eliminated Federico Staksrud before closing the tournament with a commanding victory over Goins in the championship match.
Meanwhile, John Lucian Goins also leaves San Clemente with significant momentum after another strong run on the professional tour, continuing to establish himself as one of the most dangerous young players in the sport.
But in California, the spotlight ultimately belonged to one man.
Chris Haworth did not simply win another tournament.
He reminded the entire pickleball world that the road to gold in men’s singles now runs directly through him.
Men’s singles in professional pickleball may officially be entering a new era.
Chris Haworth reinforced that reality this weekend in San Clemente, California, defeating John Lucian Goins 11-2, 11-8 in the men’s singles final at the 2026 Toys “R” Us PPA Finals and closing another dominant week on one of the biggest stages of the season.
But beyond the scoreline, the real story is the message this championship sends.
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Haworth no longer looks like a surprise contender or simply the hottest player on tour. Right now, he looks like the player everyone else is chasing.
From the opening rally of the final, the American controlled the pace of the match with relentless pressure and aggressive shot-making. The first game quickly turned into a statement performance as Goins struggled to establish rhythm against Haworth’s speed and intensity from the baseline.
LOVE PICKLEBALL?
Get Dink Authority Magazine updates, new editions, pro stories and event alerts.
We respect your privacy. Unsubscribe anytime.
The opening 11-2 game immediately set the tone.
Goins responded much better in the second game, extending rallies and forcing several physical exchanges that briefly shifted momentum. But every time the match appeared to open a small window of opportunity, Haworth responded with authority.
His combination of court coverage, power, and ability to accelerate the tempo once again proved too much to handle.
With the victory, Haworth continues to build one of the most impressive seasons in professional pickleball, adding the PPA Finals title to a growing collection of major wins that already includes The Masters, Mesa Cup, Greater Zion, and Atlanta.
Perhaps the most impressive detail of the entire week is that Haworth actually suffered a loss during pool play before ultimately lifting the trophy in San Clemente.
Instead of shaking his confidence, the setback appeared to unlock an even more aggressive version of the world No. 1, who later eliminated Federico Staksrud before closing the tournament with a commanding victory over Goins in the championship match.
Meanwhile, John Lucian Goins also leaves San Clemente with significant momentum after another strong run on the professional tour, continuing to establish himself as one of the most dangerous young players in the sport.
But in California, the spotlight ultimately belonged to one man.
Chris Haworth did not simply win another tournament.
He reminded the entire pickleball world that the road to gold in men’s singles now runs directly through him.
