Staksrud Survives Vich's Late Charge to Claim Desert Ridge Open Title
In an instant classic men's singles gold medal match at the 2024 PPA Desert Ridge Open, top seed Federico Staksrud faced his toughest test yet against Spain's Jaume Martinez Vich. Though Staksrud controlled large portions of the match with penetrating groundstrokes and deft drop shots, Vich mounted an epic comeback late in the third set that electrified the crowd but ultimately fell just short.
Staksrud struggled early with backhand errors while Vich dazzled with speed and anticipation. But Staksrud found his form in the second game, pummeling winners with his forehand and showcasing his elite movement. Vich responded in the third game, hitting a perfectly weighted drop shot to seize a 5-1 lead.
Just when it looked as though Vich would run away with the match, Staksrud unleashed a violent two-handed backhand winner. He followed with what he later called the best point of the match - an incredible rally that he somehow won despite Vich sending him scrambling all over the court. The epic point turned the tide in Staksrud’s favor as he surged ahead.
But Vich refused to go quietly, mounting a ferocious comeback. After a remarkable return winner under pressure, Vich reeled off back-to-back sensational points to get within two. Serving at 10-8, Staksrud double faulted twice as Vich pushed him to the limit. Though battered, Staksrud persevered clinching the championship on his fifth match point.
In his on-court interview, an exhausted yet gracious Staksrud praised Vich’s charisma and effort, admitting he nearly found himself rooting for his opponent to win too. By surviving Vich’s thrilling late charge, Staksrud added another epic chapter to his growing legend while spectators were treated to a gold medal match for the ages.
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