Germany’s Top Ranked Pro Pickleball Player Tom Protzek Stuns Jack Sock at PPA Worlds 2025 After Gritty, Injury Filled Battle
Tulsa, Oklahoma – December 05, 2025 – Germany’s highest ranked pickleball singles player Tom Protzek, a rapidly emerging professional pickleball player training in Tulsa, delivered one of the standout moments of the 2025 Jenius Bank Pickleball World Championships. Protzek defeated number 6 seed Jack Sock, one of the most recognized names in the sport, in a three game thriller that showcased his toughness, athleticism, and credibility as a rising PPA Tour pro. The win became even more remarkable after an injury setback mid match. Protzek, seeded 35, took the match 12-10, 9-11, 11-6, a result that pushed him to number 35 in the world in singles and cemented him as Germany’s top ranked pickleball player. “Ask yourself the question: How will I be a Champion today,” Protzek said afterward.
A Professional Journey That Truly Began in Tulsa
Protzek first picked up a paddle in 2023, but his serious transition into becoming a professional pickleball athlete began in summer 2024 in Tulsa. Returning from the semi pro soccer season with New Mexico United, Protzek found a competitive environment in the Tulsa pickleball community that challenged him to level up quickly. The support and intensity he received in Tulsa set the stage for his rapid climb through professional ranks. Tulsa became the center of his training, development, and identity as a legitimate international pickleball competitor. More of his story can be found at https://tomprotzek.com/.
Training in Tulsa and Competing Against Elite PPA Tour Players
From his Tulsa base, Protzek travels the country competing in singles, doubles, and mixed events on the PPA Tour. Despite not training at a formal academy, he has relied on Tulsa’s driven local players to sharpen his game and prepare him for elite opponents. This season he has split games and pushed top professionals including JW Johnson, Jorja Johnson, Jay Devilliers, Riley Newman, Hunter Johnson, and Tyson McGuffin. Multiple Challenger medals, reinforcing his credibility as a competitive and fast rising tour level player. His speed, athleticism, and fast improving backhand continue to define his style as he climbs the rankings. “Believe in what you put into it. I do it in practice so I believe I can do it in a match as well,” Protzek said.
Video Link: https://www.youtube.com/embed/kKPcC91sGq8
Rooted in Tulsa and Germany: A Dual Identity in Professional Pickleball
Protzek proudly represents Germany and Oklahoma on the professional stage. He credits the support he received in New Mexico, Germany, and especially Oklahoma for helping him see a future as a pro pickleball athlete. As Tulsa’s only active PPA Tour singles pro, he hopes his journey proves that major careers can begin on public courts and in community based environments. “I want someone to say one day that Tom believed in me and that helped me take my shot,” he said.
Looking Ahead: Goals for a Rising PPA Tour Professional
Protzek aims to break into the top 20 in singles and the top 30 in doubles and mixed next season. He will close the year with two major events, including a potential run with a top twelve partner in men’s doubles. These upcoming tournaments offer further opportunities to strengthen his ranking and visibility on the professional stage. With Tom’s increasing visibility on the PPA tour he looks forward to the possibility of being drafted in next year’s Major League Pickleball draft. Brands seeking partnerships can learn more at https://tomprotzek.com. Protzek values loyalty, transparency, and long term alignment in any collaboration.
About Tom Protzek
Tom Protzek is Germany’s highest ranked singles pickleball player and a rapidly rising competitor on the PPA Tour. After starting casually in 2023, he began his professional journey in Tulsa, Oklahoma in summer 2024, where he continues to train. His upset victory over Jack Sock at the 2025 Jenius Bank Pickleball World Championships earned international attention and marked a defining moment early in his career. Protzek represents both Germany and Tulsa as he works toward becoming one of the top professional pickleball athletes in the world.
Website: https://tomprotzek.com/
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Website: https://tomprotzek.com/
