2024 PPA Daytona Beach Open WD Gold Medal Match, Article and Interview

 

Family Triumph: Leigh and Anna Leigh Waters Capture Gold at the PPA Daytona Beach Open

Mother-Daughter Duo's Incredible Comeback Ends with a Thrilling Women's Doubles Victory

Introduction:

Under the shimmering Florida sun at the PPA Daytona Beach Open, pickleball history was made. Leigh Waters, 45, and her daughter, Anna Leigh Waters, 17, defied expectations by winning the Women’s Doubles title in a gripping final against Jorja Johnson and Hurricane Tyra Black. With scores of 7-11, 11-8, 11-3, and 11-4, the mother-daughter duo not only claimed victory but also reignited the magic of their partnership after a two-year hiatus from playing together. The triumph showcased not just their skill but also their unique bond, leaving fans inspired and cheering for more.

The Journey to Victory

Leigh and Anna Leigh’s path to the championship was nothing short of remarkable. The duo hadn’t competed together in a professional setting since 2022, making their return at this tournament all the more special. Anna Leigh’s regular partner, Catherine Parenteau, opted out of the event, giving Anna Leigh the perfect opportunity to coax her mother back onto the court. “Mom, there’s a tournament in Florida. Let’s go play and have some fun,” Anna Leigh recounted during the post-match interview. What began as a fun holiday outing turned into a golden performance that captivated the crowd.

The Quarterfinals and Semifinals: Building Momentum

In the quarterfinals, the Waters duo faced sisters Mary and Maggie Brascia, delivering a commanding 11-3, 11-7 victory. Leigh, who had been away from professional competition for two years, displayed an impressive range of shots, from forehand speed-ups to overhead slams. Anna Leigh, already the world’s top-ranked player, seamlessly adjusted her aggressive style to complement her mother’s game. “We move pretty seamlessly on the court together,” Anna Leigh said. Their synergy proved unstoppable as they advanced to the semifinals.

Against formidable opponents in the semifinals, the Waters faced even greater challenges but stayed true to their philosophy of playing with joy. “When we’re having fun, that’s when we play our best,” Leigh explained. The pair’s chemistry and resilience were evident as they clinched their spot in the finals, thrilling fans with their dynamic play.

The Final Showdown

The championship match against Jorja Johnson and Hurricane Tyra Black tested the Waters’ resolve. The first game slipped away as their opponents came out swinging, taking it 7-11. “We weren’t having fun; we were putting too much pressure on ourselves,” Anna Leigh admitted. But everything changed after a mid-match pep talk. Leigh encouraged her daughter to embrace the moment and enjoy playing together.

From the third game onward, the Waters found their rhythm. Anna Leigh’s powerful drives and Leigh’s strategic setups created a winning combination. By the final game, the duo was unstoppable, dominating 11-3 and 11-4 to secure the gold. Anna Leigh, ever the competitor, even credited a loop of Hamilton songs running through her head for keeping her calm under pressure.

The Emotional Victory

For Leigh, the victory was deeply personal. It marked her first title in 25 months, a drought she had hardly expected to end with a win alongside her daughter. “I just wanted to have a blast out here with her,” Leigh said. “Never expected to win the darn thing, but here we are.” The win was a poignant reminder of the bond they share, both as family and teammates.

Anna Leigh’s post-match reflections were equally heartfelt. “I asked her to play because I knew she had it in her to come out here and win the thing. She’s a baller,” Anna Leigh said, thanking the crowd for their unwavering support throughout the tournament.

A Holiday to Remember

The PPA Daytona Beach Open will be remembered not just for its thrilling matches but for the heartwarming story of Leigh and Anna Leigh Waters. Their journey from a casual decision to play together to winning a gold medal is a testament to the power of family, teamwork, and perseverance. As the holiday season continues, fans are left wondering: Could this iconic duo take the court together again?

In-Depth Summary

Leigh and Anna Leigh Waters’ victory at the PPA Daytona Beach Open was more than a win; it was a story of resilience, joy, and family unity. After a two-year hiatus, Leigh returned to professional pickleball to partner with her daughter, the world’s top player. Despite initial nerves and a slow start in the finals, the pair found their stride, blending skill and strategy to overcome tough opponents. Leigh’s role as the steadying force and Anna Leigh’s aggressive play proved to be the perfect combination.

The tournament highlighted not only their on-court prowess but also the unique dynamics of their relationship. From Anna Leigh’s Hamilton-inspired focus to Leigh’s strategic mindset, the duo demonstrated that fun and connection can lead to greatness. Their victory is a shining example of what can happen when talent meets heart, leaving fans inspired and eager for more appearances from this legendary team.

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Post Match Interview

Waters Duo Strikes Gold: A Holiday Triumph in Daytona Beach

Leigh and Anna Leigh Waters Capture Victory in a Thrilling Women's Doubles Final at the PPA Daytona Beach Open

In a match brimming with emotion, resilience, and pure family chemistry, Leigh Waters and her daughter, world No. 1 Anna Leigh Waters, claimed the gold medal at the PPA Daytona Beach Open. Facing the formidable team of Jorja Johnson and Hurricane Tyra Black, the mother-daughter duo came from behind to secure a stunning 7-11, 11-8, 11-3, 11-4 victory.

This unexpected pairing, born from a spontaneous decision just weeks ago, turned into a heartwarming and triumphant story. Leigh Waters, stepping back into professional play for the first time since 2022, reminded fans why she was once the best in the game, while Anna Leigh proved why she continues to dominate the sport. Together, they delivered an unforgettable performance on Florida soil, leaving the crowd cheering for more.

Dave Fleming: Leigh Waters, you are the champions in Daytona! How in the world did this happen?

Leigh Waters: Honestly, Dave, I’m still pinching myself. This all started because Anna Leigh asked me a couple of weeks ago, “Mom, there’s a tournament in Florida. Let’s go play and have some fun.” And now, somehow, here we are with a gold medal! It’s been such an incredible ride, and I couldn’t be happier.

Dave Fleming: Anna Leigh, what was the difference today against such a talented team?

Anna Leigh Waters: The first game and a half, Tyra and Jorja were playing amazing. We weren’t having fun—we were putting way too much pressure on ourselves. Then my mom looked at me and said, “Anna Leigh, you’re playing with your mom. Just have some fun out there.” That totally changed my mindset. I had a couple of scrappy points, Mom hit some great speed-ups, and we found our rhythm. By the third game, I was even singing Hamilton to myself to stay loose. Once we settled in, everything just clicked.

Dave Fleming: Leigh, it’s been 25 months since your last PPA title. How did you hold up your end of the bargain today?

Leigh Waters: It’s all about knowing my role. When I try to be the star, that’s when things go wrong. But when I focus on being the supporting act—making my shots, setting Anna Leigh up, and waiting for my moment to speed up—that’s when we’re at our best. And really, I just wanted to savor this experience with her. Winning the whole thing? That’s the cherry on top.

Dave Fleming: Anna Leigh, I have to ask. You’ve won with Mom. Does this mean we’ll see this partnership again?

Anna Leigh Waters: (Laughing) Sorry, Catherine! No, I’m playing with Catherine Parenteau all next year. The only reason I asked Mom to play this event was that Catherine didn’t want to. But hey, if this tournament is around Christmas next year and Catherine doesn’t want to play again, maybe I’ll call Mom. I knew she still had it in her, and I’m just so grateful we got to share this moment together.

Dave Fleming: Leigh, what’s next for you? Back to coaching, or will we see you playing more often?

Leigh Waters: (Smiling) Coaching, for sure. This was so special, but my focus is on Anna Leigh’s career. A couple of tournaments a year might be fun, but I’m happy wearing the coaching hat most of the time. And trust me, it’s a lot less nerve-wracking than being out on the court myself!

Dave Fleming: Well, you both were phenomenal today. Leigh and Anna Leigh Waters, congratulations on an incredible victory here in Daytona. You’ve given us all a holiday memory to cherish.

Leigh Waters: Thank you so much, Dave, and thank you to everyone who came out to support us. It’s been an amazing week.

Anna Leigh Waters: Yes, thank you all so much! The crowd was incredible, and we’re so grateful for the support. It means the world to us.

2024 PPA Bristol Open Doubles

 

Bright/Rohrabacher v Johnson/Glozman 
Waters/Parenteau v Castillo/Radzikowska 
Devilliers/Tellez v Alshon/Duong
Johns/Johns v Daescu/Ignatowich
Jansen/Pisnik v Johnson/Glozman 
Bright/Rohrabacher v Buckner/Wang 
Castillo/Radzikowska v Jardim/Jones
Scarpa/Dow v Alshon/Duong
Bar/Patriquin v Daescu/Ignatowich 
Loyd/Fought v Devilliers/Tellez
Waters/Parenteau v Kong/Oshiro 
Jardim/Jones v Ansboury/Goldberg
Daescu/Ignatowich v Loong/Khlif
Johns/Johns v Emmrich/De La Rosa
Devilliers/Tellez v Sock/Shick 
Bar/Patriquin v Teoni/Johnson
Castillo/Radzikowska v Bouchard/Sleeth
Rettenmaier/Navratil v Sock/Shick
Johns/Johns v Goldin/Estareja 
Loong/Khlif v Bellamy/Johnson

2024 MLP Salt Lake City: In-depth Point Analysis - Carolina PC vs Dallas Flash

  

A major way that I improve in pickleball is by watching professional pickleball on Youtube, but I'll watch in on .25x speed so I can actually study and understand what's going on. - Ed Ju

2024 MLP Salt Lake City: 
The Greatest Comeback in Pickleball History
An In-Depth Point Analysis of The Carolina Pickleball Club vs Dallas Flash Men's Doubles Match Point

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Introduction:

In the world of pickleball, few moments capture the sheer excitement and intensity of the sport like a dramatic comeback. During the 2024 Major League Pickleball (MLP) event in Salt Lake City, spectators were treated to one of the most exhilarating points in the history of the game. The highly favored Carolina PC team, featuring the world #1 ranked Ben and Collin Johns brothers, faced off against the determined duo of JW Johnson and Augie Ge from the Dallas Flash. With Carolina PC leading 24-18 and seemingly poised for victory, the Dallas Flash staged an unforgettable comeback, eventually turning the tables to lead 27-26. In this instructional article, Ed Ju breaks down the pivotal match point with detailed analysis and insights.

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1. The Set-Up: JW’s Serve and Ben’s Return

Time Code: 1:40

• JW Johnson serves the ball.
• Ben Johns puts substantial body weight into his return.
• JW’s preparation and split step are crucial.

Summary: JW Johnson serves, and Ben Johns responds with a powerful return. JW's preparation and split step allow him to manage the forceful return effectively. This initial exchange sets the tone for the thrilling rally that follows.

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2. Augie’s Anticipation and Split Step

Time Code: 2:36

• Augie observes JW's return.
• Augie stays back and performs a split step.
• JW hits a strong third shot.

Summary: Augie Ge demonstrates excellent anticipation by staying back and performing a split step in response to JW's return. This allows him to remain balanced and ready for the ensuing play, showcasing his defensive prowess.

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3. Ben’s Tactical Shot and Augie’s Backhand Defense

Time Code: 3:54

• Ben executes a deep, aggressive return.
• Augie uses his backhand for a controlled return.
• Ben and Collin maintain pressure at the kitchen line.

Summary: Ben Johns attempts a deep and aggressive return, forcing Augie to utilize his backhand. Despite the pressure, Augie manages a controlled return, allowing him and JW to stay in the rally. Ben and Collin's consistent pressure at the kitchen line plays a significant role in maintaining their advantage.

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4. The Intense Dink Rally

Time Code: 8:06

• A prolonged dink rally ensues.
• Ben and Collin’s footwork remains stable and balanced.
• Augie and JW are slightly off-balance but resilient.

Summary: The rally transitions into an intense dink exchange, with both teams showcasing their skills. Ben and Collin's superior footwork and balance keep them in control, while Augie and JW fight to stay in the game despite being slightly off-balance.

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5. Ben’s Backhand Roll and Augie’s Defense

Time Code: 11:18

• Ben attempts a backhand roll.
• Augie responds with a well-placed backhand.
• A rapid exchange of volleys occurs.

Summary: Ben Johns attempts his signature backhand roll, but Augie Ge defends with a well-placed backhand shot. The point escalates into a rapid volley exchange, showcasing the quick reflexes and strategic thinking of both teams.

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6. JW and Augie’s Defensive Mastery

Time Code: 13:47

• JW and Augie back up to defend.
• Augie executes a critical reset shot.
• They seize the opportunity to advance.

Summary: Facing relentless pressure, JW and Augie back up to enhance their defensive position. Augie’s crucial reset shot allows them to regain control and seize the opportunity to advance toward the net, flipping the momentum of the rally.

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7. The Final Showdown: Augie’s Decisive Push

Time Code: 17:01

• Augie delivers a powerful backhand push.
• A rapid series of backhand volleys follow.
• The Dallas Flash secure the final point.

Summary: In the final showdown, Augie delivers a decisive backhand push, followed by a series of rapid volleys. His ability to maintain composure and execute under pressure ultimately secures the final point for the Dallas Flash, capping off an extraordinary comeback.

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Summary:

The 2024 MLP Salt Lake City match between Carolina PC and the Dallas Flash featured a remarkable comeback that will be remembered in pickleball history. Despite leading 24-18, the favored Johns brothers faced an incredible turnaround as JW Johnson and Augie Ge clawed their way back into the game. Each section of match point highlighted key strategic moves, from JW’s initial serve and split step to Augie’s critical defensive plays and eventual offensive push. Ed Ju's detailed analysis provides valuable insights into the high-level strategies and skills that defined this unforgettable rally. The Dallas Flashs' ability to adapt and persevere under immense pressure led to their triumphant victory, showcasing the unpredictability and excitement of pickleball at its finest.

2024 PPA Orange County Cup - Jack Munro and Julian Arnold Interview

Underdogs Triumph: Munro and Arnold Upset Wright and Staksrud in PPA Orange County Cup Quarterfinals

Dynamic duo showcases chemistry and composure to take down pickleball veteran

In a thrilling quarterfinal match at the 2024 Professional Pickleball Association (PPA) Orange County Cup, the 12th-seeded pair of Jack Munro and Julian Arnold pulled off a stunning upset against the 3rd-seeded team of Matt Wright and Federico Staksrud. The young duo's cohesive play and tactical prowess led them to a decisive 11-7, 11-8 victory, securing their spot in the semifinals and leaving spectators in awe of their performance.

0:00 Game 1 (11-7)

1:05 - Munro executes a beautiful topspin lob, catching the line 2:50 - Matt Wright showcases his signature hands with an impressive shot 5:19 - Julian Arnold displays great hands at the net, countering Wright's speed-up 7:39 - Munro and Arnold demonstrate excellent hand speed in an intense exchange

11:35 Game 2 (11-8) 12:28 Jack's parents in the audience 14:38 Arnold aborts an Ernie attempt 16:50 Staksrud shows remarkable extension to fill the middle gap 27:04 On match point, Munro lobs 28:00 Munro and Arnold match point

28:20 Post-Match Interview

In a stunning quarterfinal match at the 2024 PPA Orange County Cup, Jack Munro and Julian Arnold upset 3rd-seeded Matt Wright and Federico Staksrud. Following their impressive victory, the dynamic duo shared their thoughts in a post-match interview. Here's what they had to say:

Q: Jack, how did you and Julian manage to pull off this upset?

Jack Munro: Julian is just so easy to play with. I'm so comfortable playing with him. We've played I think this is our fourth or fifth time, so I truly do trust him, and it showed today.

Q: How does it feel to come out on top against Matt Wright, given your history?

Julian: Good, yeah. We played them in Atlanta, and after the match, Matt let me know that I'm like 0 and 200 against him or something. But everybody only remembers your last match, so this is the one that counts right now, and I'm still here.

Q: Jack, you're a relatively new face on the pro circuit. Can you tell us a bit about yourself?

Jack Munro: Thank you. Well, I'm here to stay. I mean, I love the sport, I love playing professionally. I was supposed to go to a wedding tomorrow, but we're going to have to change plans for sure. 

Julian: I have a Turo to pick up tomorrow morning too, so I think I'll get that and then get ready for our match. But yeah, it was an awesome time with this kid.

Q: Julian, how do you feel about advancing to the semifinals?

Julian Arnold: Super excited to be playing with a young kid and here in California in our home state.

Q: Any final thoughts on the match or your strategy?

Julian: Shout out to Adam Stone - slice attacks do exist, they just don't work very often. But I've pulled off at least three in my life, so I'm going to keep going for it. You know, I just pull off stupid shots and sometimes they work. That's pickleball.

Summary Article:

In a stunning quarterfinal match at the 2024 PPA Orange County Cup, 12th-seeded Jack Munro and Julian Arnold upset 3rd-seeded Matt Wright and Federico Staksrud with a decisive 11-7, 11-8 victory. The young duo's cohesive play and tactical acumen were on full display throughout the match, allowing them to outmaneuver their more experienced opponents.

Munro and Arnold set the tone early in the first game, showcasing strong net play and strategic shot selection. They maintained their momentum in the second game, fending off attempts by Wright and Staksrud to mount a comeback. Key moments included Munro's effective use of lobs and Arnold's controlled play through the middle of the court.

The match was characterized by intense exchanges at the net, with both teams demonstrating impressive hand speed and reflexes. However, Munro and Arnold's ability to stay composed during crucial points ultimately gave them the edge.

In the post-match interview, Munro highlighted the trust and comfort he feels playing with Arnold, while Arnold expressed his dedication to professional pickleball. Their unexpected victory not only secures them a spot in the semifinals but also signals the rising talent in the sport, challenging the dominance of established veterans.

This upset serves as a reminder of pickleball's dynamic nature and the potential for emerging players to make their mark on the professional circuit. As Munro and Arnold advance to the semifinals, they've certainly put the rest of the field on notice.

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2024 PPA Red Rock Open - Doubles

 

Emmrich/Padegimaite vs Jansen/Pisnik 
Bright/Smith vs Jones/Black
Frazier/Johnson vs McGuffin/Bar 
Johns/Johns vs Deascu/Tardio 
Jones/Black vs Johnson/Humberg 
Bright/Smith vs Brascia/Brascia

Frazier/Johnson vs Loong/Martinez Vich 
McGuffin/Bar vs Patriquin/Dawson
Staksrud/Tellez vs Daescu/Tardio 
Johns/Johns vs Khlif/Slutsky 
Staksrud/Tellez vs Shick/Sock
Johns/Johns vs Stone/French
Johns/Johns vs Forsythe/Jensen 
Fought/Smith vs Shick/Sock

2:10:05 Tyra Hurricane Black / Allyce Jones vs Ivy Tschetter / Ekaterina Biakina 2:42:53 Connor Garnett / Christian Alshon vs Andrei Daescu / Gabriel Tardio 3:34:39 Tyson McGuffin / Dekel Bar vs Quang Duong / Blaine Hovenier 4:25:00 Federico Staksrud / Pablo Tellez vs Andrei Daescu / Gabriel Tardio

Bronze

Ben Johns/Collin Johns vs Tyson McGuffin / Dekel Bar

2:33:03 Tyra Hurricane Black / Allyce Jones vs Tamaryn Emmrich / Lina Padegimaite

7:53 Alix Truong / Connor Garnett vs Martina Frantova / Andrei Daescu 57:29 Christian Alshon vs Tyson McGuffin 1:31:08 Kaitlyn Christian vs Jorja Johnson 2:33:03 Tyra Hurricane Black / Allyce Jones vs Tamaryn Emmrich / Lina Padegimaite

News

Daescu, Tardio to face Frazier, Johnson for men’s doubles gold
History seems to be repeating itself in Utah. (MD)
After a late run, the No. 5 seeds are moving on. (WD)

Resource

PPA Tour: Scores

2024 PPA LA Open Doubles

 

Dizon/Wright vs Schneemann/Glozman 
Rettenmaier/Navratil vs McGuffin/Martinez Vich
Bright/Rohrabacher vs Brascia/Brascia
Johns/Johns vs Garnett/Ge
Kovalova/Jansen vs Schneemann/Glozman 
Bright/Rohrabacher vs Pisnik/Irvine 
Angela Walker/Alex Walker vs Mary Brascia/Maggie Brascia
Staksrud/Tellez vs Garnett/Ge
McGuffin/Martinez Vich vs Loong/Young 
Wright/Wilson vs Rettenmaier/Navratil
Johns/Johns vs Devilliers/Smith 
Johns/Johns vs Johnson/Teoni 
Buckner/Padegimaite vs Schaefer/Bouchard 
Johns/Johns vs Dow/Diamond 

1:47:03 Angela Walker / Alex Walker vs Lingwei Kong / Rachel Rettger 2:49:02 Lea Jansen / Lucy Kovalova vs Elizabeth Boydston / Ella Boydston 3:12:14 Tyson McGuffin / Jaume Martinez Vich vs Roscoe Bellamy / Todd Fought 3:39:16 Allyce Jones / Lauren Stratman vs Angela Walker / Alex Walker 7:07:03 Travis Rettenmaier / Zane Navratil vs Tyson McGuffin / Jaume Martinez Vich 7:51:23 Meghan Dizon / Marietta Wright vs Lacy Schneemann / Vivian Glozman

1:29:14 Connor Garnett/Augie Ge vs Joseph/Hovenier

4:44:17 Federico Staksrud / Pablo Tellez vs Augustus Ge / Connor Garnett 5:21:56 Anna Bright / Rachel Rohrabacher vs Tina Pisnik / Jessie Irvine 5:58:48 Lea Jansen / Lucy Kovalova vs Lacy Schneemann / Vivian Glozman

5:46:29 Walker/Walker vs Mary Brascia/Maggie Brascia

Live Streams 

Grandstand Court
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News

Gold at last: Garnett secures men’s singles title
Connor Garnett is officiallty a gold medalist on the PPA Tour.

Johns bros overcome McGuffin. Martinez Vich in five-game epic
Buckner captures first PPA title
Bright, Rohrabacher roll into women’s doubles final 
Bright, Johns into mixed doubles final
Stratman, Patriquin take back-and-forth Game 3 to make quarters
Stratman, Buckner make first Championship Sunday in singles
Garnett, Staksrud set Championship Sunday clash 

Sleeth enjoying successful run in LA
Bellamy ousts McGuffin to make quarters
Patriquin notches signature win over Ben Johns
Ge downs Devilliers in three games
Do upsets Tellez to make Round of 16 

2024 PPA LA Open Doubles

 

1:47:03 Angela Walker / Alex Walker vs Lingwei Kong / Rachel Rettger 2:49:02 Lea Jansen / Lucy Kovalova vs Elizabeth Boydston / Ella Boydston 3:12:14 Tyson McGuffin / Jaume Martinez Vich vs Roscoe Bellamy / Todd Fought 3:39:16 Allyce Jones / Lauren Stratman vs Angela Walker / Alex Walker 4:44:17 Federico Staksrud / Pablo Tellez vs Augustus Ge / Connor Garnett 5:21:56 Anna Bright / Rachel Rohrabacher vs Tina Pisnik / Jessie Irvine 5:58:48 Lea Jansen / Lucy Kovalova vs Lacy Schneemann / Vivian Glozman 7:07:03 Travis Rettenmaier / Zane Navratil vs Tyson McGuffin / Jaume Martinez Vich 7:51:23 Meghan Dizon / Marietta Wright vs Lacy Schneemann / Vivian Glozman

2024 PPA Houston Open Doubles

 

Doubles Videos

Bright/Rohrabher vs Jansen/Pisnik 
Kovalova/Smith vs David/Kawamoto
Loong/Alshon vs Staksrud/Tellez 
Bright/Rohrabacher vs Irvine/Schneemann 
Johns/Johns vs Wilson/Bar 
David/Kawamoto vs Stratman/Newell 
Hewett/Howells vs Loong/Alshon

Kovalova/Smith vs Todd/Black
David/Kawamoto vs Lum/Haas
Dizon/Wright vs Jansen/Pisnik 
Staksrud/Tellez vs Garnett/Young 
Schneemann/Irvine vs Radzikowska/Lopez
Frazier /Y Johnson vs Wilson/Bar 
Johns/Johns vs Klinger/Martinez Vich (Most Views)

Wright/Ignatowich vs Hewett/Howells
Bright/Rohrabacher vs Frantova/Hoag 
Todd/Black vs Koop/Kawamoto 
Christian/Erokhina vs Frantova/Hoag 
Garnett/Young vs Arnold/Munro 
Wilson/Bar vs Dawson/Patriquin 
Loong/Alshon vs Larson/Hall 
Rettenmaier/Navratil vs Emmrich/De La Rosa 
Wright/Ignatowich vs Burrows/Querrey 
Dawson/Patriquin vs Loyd/Loyd 

Doubles YouTube Live Streams

Grandstand Court: Veolia Houston Open presented by Just Courts - Men's and Women's Doubles
24K viewsStreamed 12 hours ago
BONUS CAMERA: Veolia Houston Open presented by Just Courts - Grandstand 2 Court
11K viewsStreamed 13 hours ago
BONUS CAMERA: Veolia Houston Open presented by Just Courts - Humana Championship Court
4.9K viewsStreamed 19 hours ago 

2024 APP Miami Pickleball Open

 

1. Rane/Howells vs. Black/Frazier | Semi-Finals
2. Johnson/Frazier vs. Howells/DeHeart | Final
3. Hunter Johnson vs. Grayson Goldin | Men's Pro Singles Final
4. Bock/Lanier vs. Lange/Manthou | Men's Pro Doubles Bronze
5. Lange/Manthou vs. DeHeart/Howells | Semi-Finals
6. Rane/Howells vs. Johnson/Tardio | Mixed Pro Doubles Bronze
7. Johnson/Rane vs. Fudge/Barr | Women's Pro Doubles Final
8. Frazier/Johnson vs. Bock/Lanier | Semi-Finals
9. Black/Frazier vs. Fudge/Daescu | Mixed Pro Doubles Final
10. Castillo/Radzikowska vs. Humberg/Truong | Bronze Match
11. Fudge/Daescu vs. Johnson/Tardio | Semi-Finals
12. Megan Fudge vs. Jenna Hessert | Women's Pro Singles Final
13. Fudge/Barr vs. Butler/Lopez Ascarate | Women's Pro Doubles
14. Fudge/Barr vs. Humberg/Truong | Women's Pro Doubles
15. Castillo/Radzikowska vs. Johnson/Rane I Semi-Finals

2024 PPA Austin Open: Women's Doubles Gold Medal Match

 

The Unthinkable Upset: Anna Bright and Rachel Rohrabacher Dethrone the Invincible Duo

Defying the Odds, the Underdogs Claim Gold at the 2024 PPA Austin Open

In a stunning display of grit, determination, and unwavering belief, Anna Bright and Rachel Rohrabacher etched their names into pickleball history by dethroning the seemingly invincible duo of Anna Leigh Waters and Catherine Parenteau at the 2024 PPA Austin Open. The match, which unfolded on a blustery Monday afternoon, was a testament to the unpredictable nature of sports and the indomitable spirit of true champions.

Game 1:

The opening game set the tone for the match, as Bright and Rohrabacher came out firing on all cylinders. Their relentless offensive barrage, coupled with a masterful display of court coverage, left Waters and Parenteau scrambling for answers. The underdogs seized control early on, establishing a commanding lead that they never relinquished, ultimately claiming the first game with a resounding 11-4 scoreline.

Game 2:

Undeterred by the setback, Waters and Parenteau regrouped, determined to reassert their dominance. In a hard-fought battle, they managed to level the playing field, claiming the second game 11-3. However, the resilience of Bright and Rohrabacher was evident as they refused to back down, setting the stage for an intense showdown in the subsequent games.

Game 3:

The third game was a true test of mental fortitude for both teams. Bright and Rohrabacher, buoyed by their earlier success, seized the momentum early on, racing to an 11-6 victory. Their ability to stay composed under pressure and capitalize on every opportunity proved to be the difference-maker, leaving Waters and Parenteau visibly frustrated.

Game 4:

With the match hanging in the balance, the fourth game promised to be a nerve-wracking affair. Bright and Rohrabacher, sensing victory within their grasp, came out swinging, determined to deliver the knockout blow. Waters and Parenteau, true champions in their own right, refused to go down without a fight, mounting a valiant comeback that had the crowd on the edge of their seats.

In a display of sheer grit and determination, Bright and Rohrabacher fended off a staggering nine championship points, leaving spectators in disbelief. With the match on a knife's edge, the underdogs summoned every ounce of their resolve, finally sealing the deal with an 11-8 victory in the fourth game, cementing their place in pickleball lore.

Anna Bright/Rachel Rohrabacher Highlight Points:

• Rohrabacher's blistering forehand: Rachel Rohrabacher's powerful forehand proved to be a game-changer, as she repeatedly unleashed cannon-like shots that left her opponents scrambling.
• Bright's court coverage: Anna Bright's exceptional court coverage and anticipation allowed her to seamlessly transition from defense to offense, keeping the Waters/Parenteau duo off-balance.
• Composure under pressure: In a match filled with tension and drama, Bright and Rohrabacher maintained their composure, refusing to buckle under the weight of the moment.
• Strategic adjustments: The duo's ability to make tactical adjustments on the fly, such as switching sides or altering their shot selection, kept Waters and Parenteau guessing throughout the match.

Match Stats:

(1) Anna Leigh Waters/Catherine Parenteau

• Expected to Win percentage: 84.8%
  
• Total Match Points won: 21

(3) Anna Bright/Rachel Rohrabacher:

• Expected to Win percentage: 15.2%
• Total Match Points Won: 25

In a match that will be etched in pickleball folklore, Anna Bright and Rachel Rohrabacher achieved the unthinkable, toppling the seemingly invincible Waters/Parenteau duo. Their unwavering belief, combined with exceptional skill and mental fortitude, allowed them to defy the odds and claim the coveted gold medal at the 2024 PPA Austin Open. This victory not only cements their place among the elite in the sport but also serves as a reminder that in the world of pickleball, anything is possible when passion, determination, and unwavering spirit collide.

Summary:

The stage was set for an epic showdown between the top-seeded Waters/Parenteau team, riding an astonishing 37-tournament winning streak, and the third-seeded Bright/Rohrabacher pair, who entered the match as underdogs. With the odds heavily stacked against them, Bright and Rohrabacher defied all expectations, showcasing a level of tenacity and resilience that left spectators in awe.

Match Time Code List

2:51 Rachel hits a left-handed overhead into the net 6:45 ALW/CP get into an I-Formation 7:13 AWL/CP Firefight - "They are a mess right now" - Dave Fleming 8:41 Game 2 13:42 CP hits a winner down the middle 17:41 Game 3 18:35 Firefight 28:06 Firefight. AB hits a winner 30:51 Firefight. RR hits a winner 33:27 Game 4 34:05 Firefight. RR hits a winner 39:16 ALW/CP play defense from the baseline 45:40 1st Match Point 53:24 9th Match Point 53:50 On Court Interviews

Pickleball Rhapsody: An Ode to the Underdogs In the realm of pickleball, where paddles clash, A tale unfolds, a story to bash, The odds stacked high, the favorites reign, But underdogs rise, defying the game's disdain. Anna Bright and Rachel Rohrabacher take the stage, A dynamic duo, ready to engage, With a mere 15.2% Expected to Win, Their hearts beat fierce, their spirits within. Facing the might of Anna Leigh Waters and Catherine Parenteau, A force to reckon, a duo in full flow, But on the court, where pickleball reigns supreme, The underdogs embrace their wildest dream. The PPA Veolia Austin Open, a Gold Medal Match to behold, Where legends are born, and stories untold, Nine championship points, a mountain to scale, Yet Bright and Rohrabacher refused to fail. With sizzling forehands and court coverage divine, They danced and swayed, their rhythm in perfect line, Composure unwavering, adjustments so smart, Leaving the favorites torn apart. A match for the ages, a triumph so sweet, The underdogs prevailed, their victory complete, Defying the odds, rewriting the tale, In pickleball's realm, where legends never fail. So raise a glass to Anna Bright and Rachel Rohrabacher's feat, A jazzy ode to their undying heart's beat, For in the world of pickleball, where dreams take flight, The underdogs reign, their glory burning bright