Christian Alshon has quickly risen to prominence as one of the most exciting talents in professional pickleball. Known for his dynamic playing style, signature trick shots, and competitive spirit, Alshon has captivated fans and opponents alike on the Professional Pickleball Association (PPA) Tour and Major League Pickleball (MLP). With a background in elite-level tennis and a seamless transition to pickleball, he’s established himself as a top-tier athlete in the sport. As of March 31, 2025, Alshon continues to make waves, both on and off the court, solidifying his status as a key figure in pickleball’s rapid growth.
Early Life and Background
Christian Alshon was born in Boca Raton, Florida, a city known for its vibrant sports culture. Growing up in a family passionate about athletics, Alshon was exposed to sports from a young age. His early focus was tennis, a sport in which he excelled remarkably. By his teenage years, he had climbed to the #1 ranking in the U.S. for the 18-and-under division, showcasing his exceptional talent and dedication.
Alshon’s tennis journey took him to the collegiate level, where he played for the University of Virginia before transferring to the University of Chicago. At Chicago, he led the team to a Division III NCAA Championship in 2021, finishing the season with an undefeated 18-0 singles record. His collegiate accolades include ITA All-American honors and the UAA Player of the Year award, cementing his reputation as a standout athlete.
Despite his tennis success, Alshon’s life took a pivotal turn in June 2021 when he discovered pickleball. Just two weeks after his NCAA triumph, he picked up a paddle and began playing regularly. His tennis-honed skills particularly his doubles expertise and hand-eye coordination translated seamlessly to the pickleball court, setting the stage for his rapid ascent in the sport.
Transition to Professional Pickleball
Christian Alshon’s professional pickleball career began with a bang. Drawing on his tennis background, he debuted on the PPA Tour in 2021 and quickly made an impact. In his first few tournaments, he notched impressive victories over established pros like Rafa Hewett and Jay Devilliers. Notably, he once led 8-0 against the world-renowned Ben Johns, signaling his potential to compete at the highest level.
Training with Leigh Waters, a top PPA pro and mother of #1-ranked Anna Leigh Waters, Alshon honed his skills in Florida. By May 2023, he had broken into the global top 10 rankings, a testament to his hard work and natural ability. His signature “tweeners” trick shots hit between the legs became a fan favorite, earning him the nickname “Tweener King” and adding flair to his powerful playing style.
Career Achievements and Highlights
Christian Alshon’s pickleball career is marked by significant milestones. Here are some of his standout achievements as of March 31, 2025:
- First MLP Dual Champion: Alshon is the first player in Major League Pickleball history to win championships at both the Challenger and Premier levels. His MVP performance at MLP Dallas further showcased his dominance.
- PPA Tour Success: On the PPA Tour, Alshon has climbed into the top 10 for men’s singles and mixed doubles, and he ranks #13 in men’s doubles. His recent highlight includes a silver medal in singles at the 2025 PPA Tucson Open, where he fell to Hunter Johnson in the final.
- Notable Wins: Alshon has defeated top players like Collin Shick, Hunter Johnson, and Jay Devilliers, proving his ability to challenge the sport’s elite.
- 2025 Masters Performance: At the January 2025 PPA Masters, Alshon reached the mixed doubles final with Hurricane Tyra Black, narrowly losing to Ben Johns and Anna Leigh Waters. Despite the loss, his competitive fire and skill were on full display.
| Tournament | Event | Result | Year |
|---|---|---|---|
| MLP Dallas | Team Championship | MVP & Champion | 2023 |
| PPA Tucson Open | Men’s Singles | Silver | 2025 |
| PPA Masters | Mixed Doubles | Silver | 2025 |
| IHG Hotels Bristol Open | Men’s Doubles | Gold (with Duong) | 2024 |
Christian Alshon Net Worth in 2025
As of early 2025, Christian Alshon’s net worth is estimated at approximately $1.5 million. His wealth stems from multiple sources:
- Tournament Prize Money: Alshon has earned significant winnings from his success on the PPA Tour and MLP, including high-profile events like the Tucson Open and Masters.
- Sponsorships: He is sponsored by Paddletek, a leading pickleball equipment brand, and Humana, reflecting his growing marketability.
- Pickleball Camps: Alshon runs his own training camps, sharing his expertise with aspiring players and generating additional income.
- Business Ventures: His off-court activities, including potential investments, contribute to his financial portfolio.
While not yet at the earnings level of pickleball superstars like Ben Johns or Anna Leigh Waters (who reportedly earned over $2.5 million and $3 million in 2024, respectively), Alshon’s trajectory suggests his net worth will continue to rise as he secures more titles and endorsement deals.
Christian Alshon’s Girlfriend
Christian Alshon keeps his personal life relatively private, but rumors have circulated about his romantic relationships. As of March 31, 2025, there is no confirmed information about a current girlfriend. Some online speculation has linked him to fellow pickleball players, but Alshon has not publicly addressed these claims.
His focus appears to remain on his career, with long hours spent training and competing. Fans eager for insights into his personal life may need to wait for Alshon to share more as his public profile grows.
Christian Alshon and Anna Leigh Waters
One of the most discussed topics in the pickleball community is the rumored relationship between Christian Alshon and Anna Leigh Waters, the sport’s #1 female player. The speculation began around 2023 when Alshon, then 22, and Waters, then 16, were frequently seen together at tournaments and training sessions. Social media posts and casual mentions by other pros fueled the rumors, with some fans questioning the age gap.
However, no official confirmation has ever been made. Alshon and Waters share a professional connection through Leigh Waters, who has coached Alshon and played a key role in his development. On the court, they’ve faced off as opponents most recently in the 2025 PPA Masters mixed doubles final but have never partnered together in competition. Whether their relationship extends beyond friendship and mentorship remains a topic of intrigue, though both players prioritize their professional careers over addressing gossip.
What Paddle Does Christian Alshon Use?
Christian Alshon is sponsored by Paddletek, a brand known for its high-quality pickleball paddles. He uses the Paddletek Bantam TKO-CX, a paddle designed for power, control, and spin. Available in 12.7mm and 14.3mm core thicknesses, Alshon favors this model for its raw carbon fiber surface, which enhances his aggressive playing style and trick-shot capabilities.
Here’s a quick look at the paddle’s features:
- Core: Bantam polymer core for a balance of power and touch.
- Surface: Raw carbon fiber for superior spin and durability.
- Weight: Midweight options suit Alshon’s versatile game.
Fans looking to emulate Alshon’s style often turn to this paddle, which has become a popular choice among competitive players.
Playing Style and Personality
Christian Alshon brings a unique flair to pickleball. His powerful shots, quick reflexes, and creative tweeners set him apart from many peers. Off the court, he’s known for his competitive intensity sometimes boiling over, as seen when he broke his paddle in frustration during the 2025 Masters. Yet, he’s also approachable, engaging with fans on social media (notably X) and through his YouTube channel, where he shares match analyses and highlights.
His coach, Leigh Waters, praises his work ethic and potential, noting, “Christian is a beast out there and he’s definitely on the up and up.” This blend of talent and personality has made Alshon a rising fan favorite.
Future Outlook
At just 24 years old in 2025, Christian Alshon’s pickleball career is still in its early stages. With his top-10 rankings, growing sponsorships, and relentless drive, he’s poised to challenge the sport’s biggest names, like Ben Johns and Federico Staksrud. Analysts predict he could achieve a Triple Crown (wins in singles, doubles, and mixed doubles at one event) soon, further elevating his status.
Off the court, Alshon’s influence is expanding. His YouTube content, training camps, and social media presence position him as a key ambassador for pickleball’s growth. As the sport continues to surge in popularity boasting over 13 million players in the U.S. alone Alshon is well-placed to become one of its leading figures.
Conclusion
Christian Alshon’s journey from tennis prodigy to pickleball standout is a story of talent, adaptability, and ambition. With a net worth of $1.5 million, a signature paddle, and a flair for the dramatic, he’s carving out a unique legacy in the sport. While questions about his personal life like his rumored connection to Anna Leigh Waters add intrigue, it’s his on-court prowess that truly defines him.
As of March 31, 2025, Christian Alshon remains a player to watch. Whether he’s executing a jaw-dropping tweener or battling for a championship, his impact on pickleball is undeniable. For fans and aspiring players alike, Alshon’s profile offers inspiration and a glimpse into the future of this fast-growing sport.
