Anna Leigh Waters and Ben Johns Win PPA Gold: Anna Leigh Waters and Ben Johns showcased why they’re the top seed in mixed doubles at the CIBC Atlanta Slam presented by Vizzy. The dynamic duo claimed gold with a hard-fought victory over the No. 4 seeds, Catherine Parenteau and Christian Alshon. The final scoreline read 11-6, 11-6, and 12-10, showing a gripping match filled with momentum shifts and tactical play.
Third-Game Drama
The pivotal third game saw Waters and Johns in a risky position, trailing 10-2. Despite the daunting deficit, they managed to save five game points, turning the tide against Parenteau and Alshon.
“We both came out on the third game missing too many thirds and made some loose errors and they got a good lead. It’s really all about making balls and making them play every point. And it never hurts to have Anna speeding up everything and winning hand stuff. I got to hang tough and play good winning hands.” – (johns)
Family Ties and Comebacks
Leigh Waters, who is both Anna Leigh’s mother and coach, also coaches Alshon. Their head-to-head battle in the final showcased Waters’ aggressive style, crucial for the comeback in game three.
“I play better when I’m aggressive, so that’s what I was trying to do. I was being a little too over aggressive but I found the spot in the end.” – (Waters)
Mental Resilience
Earlier in the tournament, Waters had to cope with a silver finish in women’s doubles after a loss to Rachel Rohrabacher and Anna Bright.
“I tend to play better after a loss. And my family is here so that was awesome. I could just look at them in the crowd and relax a little bit and feel comfortable with having people around who love you.” – (Waters)
This win marks Johns and Waters’ 39th title together in mixed doubles, further solidifying their dominance in the sport.
News in Brief: Anna Leigh Waters and Ben Johns Win PPA Gold
Anna Leigh Waters and Ben Johns won in mixed doubles at the CIBC Atlanta Slam, defeating Catherine Parenteau and Christian Alshon in a thrilling three-game final (11-6, 11-6, and 12-10). Despite trailing 10-2 in the third game, Waters and Johns made a remarkable comeback to secure the gold. Waters, recovering from a silver in women’s doubles, highlighted the support of her family as key to her resilience. This victory marks their 39th title together.
