Awesome composition. I think the people who made comment tell you why it did not do better, the green needs to be greener, the ball needs to be newer? or a better brand. The quirks of the DPC voters. I suspect you have of those photos which may well have done very well. Do not give up, learn and move on, if you wish to do well in challenges take careful note of the comments even when they seem rubbish. Keep up the good work.
I think this image would be more powerful had you not shown the writing on the ball. it now feel like an add. Not showing the Top Flite logo would have persened a more universal feel.