By: Joey Meats
SEATTLE – In the world of ping pong, one name stands out for its remarkable dedication and passion for the sport: Johnny Ochsner. At just 19 years old, Ochsner is already a seasoned competitor with an impressive track record. I recently had the opportunity to sit down with him and learn more about his journey in the world of ping pong.
A Competitive Spirit from an Early Age Ochsner journey into the world of ping pong began at the tender age of 5. Initially, he was too short to look over the table, but with the unwavering support of his father, he embarked on a journey that would shape his life. They started with the simple goal of rallying to 100, then 200, and beyond. As Ochsner improved and grew taller, his competitive spirit ignited. His first taste of formal competition came at the age of 7, and from that moment, he fell in love with the sport. Today, he looks back on this early experience with immense gratitude, crediting his father for introducing him to the world of ping pong and being his doubles partner.
Impressive wins and notable achievements, Ochsner’s ping pong career is adorned with numerous victories, with an impressive tally of 40 sanctioned tournaments under his belt. From his first tournament at the "Paddle Palace Seattle Open" in 2004, just three weeks after turning 7, to his most recent triumph at the Washington State Open in 2023, where he secured the u3800 doubles event with his dad as his partner, Ochsner’s journey has been marked by both victories and losses, each contributing to his growth as a player.
Some of Ochsner’s notable event wins include being crowned U.S. Open u1350 Singles Champion in 2016, winning U.S. Open u3200 Doubles Championships in 2016 and 2013 (with his dad as his partner) and claiming the U.S. Nationals u3200 Doubles Championships in 2013. Furthermore, he has notched more than 30 wins in Washington state events, in both singles and doubles competitions.
Facing the best at the highest levels, for Ochsner the pinnacle of his ping pong career has been the U.S. Open and U.S. Nationals. These events brought him face to face with some of the best players in the world, and he continues to rise to the occasion, displaying his unwavering dedication and skill.
Admiring the Mentorship of His Dad, Ochsner points out,
“Not only did my father introduce me to the sport, but he also serves as my doubles partner”.
Johnny greatly admires his father's competitive spirit, work ethic, and patient teaching style. This strong bond has been a driving force behind Ochsner’s success and resilience in the sport.
The thrilling moments, winning the U.S. Open u1350 singles. Among the many memorable moments in Ochsner’s career, one stands out as his favorite. Winning the U.S. Open u1350 singles event in July 2016 is a cherished memory.
“The final match was a heart-pounding showdown against Winson Tsui, coached by none other than a Chinese national team coach, earning him the nickname of the ‘Nick Saban of China & Ping Pong.’”
The match was tied 2 games to 2, and the score was 9 points apiece. In that crucial moment, Ochsner called a timeout, sought guidance from his coach, his dad, and crafted a plan that led him to secure the next two points and clinch the title.
As Ochsner continues his journey in the world of ping pong, it's evident that his passion and dedication will undoubtedly carry him to even greater heights. With his father by his side, he's well on his way to becoming a true force in the sport, inspiring aspiring ping pong enthusiasts along the way.
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