DALLAS, TX – It’s no secret that Ben Johns isn't a fan of competing indoors.

Even when there's a rain delay, the most decorated player in PPA Tour history would much rather wait out the poor weather than play inside an adjacent building or facility.

Why is that the case?

“I have eye damage in one eye from when I was nine, so I can’t actually see very well indoors,” he explained. “Basically, the doctor said: 'You have nerve damage. You’ll struggle in spotty lighting that’s slightly dark in places. You’ll struggle with depth perception.' And that’s exactly what I’ve experienced.”

Any pickleball player knows that depth perception is critically important in racket sports. And being able to see the ball properly is obviously a necessity. 

Nevertheless, Johns can effectively play indoors under the right circumtances.

“If it’s really good lighting, then it’s not really an issue,” he confirmed.

Unfortunately, top-notch lighting isn't necessarily a staple across the country.

The majority of facilities have scattered overhead lighting that can prove problematic for him.

He still manages to peform with his usual finesse, though, which shouldn't come as a surprise.

Johns and his Carolina Pickleball Club teammates will actually play indoors next week at The Picklr in conjunction with MLP Salt Lake City, so that should be interesting to watch.

And it just so happens that he isn't the only pickleball superstar who struggles with eye-related issues.

Anna Leigh Waters has poor eyesight, so she wears prescription shades on the court.

How will Ben fare under the indoor lights in Utah? Let us know on Instagram and X (formerly Twitter).