Upsets Shatter PPA Virginia Beach Tournament: Round of 32 of the PPA Virginia Beach brought a series of unexpected results, shaking up the men’s bracket in a big way. Two of the tournament’s underdogs pulled off stunning upsets in the early afternoon, reminding everyone that nothing is guaranteed on the pickleball court.
The biggest shock came when No. 41 Jhonnatan Medina Alvarez took down No. 11 seed Collin Shick in a thrilling three-game match. Alvarez started strong, taking the first game 11-6, but Shick fought back, stealing the second game 13-11. The final game was all Alvarez, who outplayed Shick to seal the 11-7 win and advance to the Round of 16.
“I knew I had to stay focused, especially in that third game. Collin’s a tough competitor, but I found my rhythm.” – (Medina Alvarez)
John Lucian Goins Stuns Grayson Goldin
Meanwhile, another upset was brewing on an adjacent court. No. 47 John Lucian Goins put on a clinic against No. 16 Grayson Goldin, cruising to a comfortable 11-2 and 11-4 win. Goins dominated from the start, using his quick reflexes and smart shot selection to dismantle Goldin’s usually formidable defense.
“Honestly, I’m just happy with how I played today. It’s always great to take down a higher seed, but now the real work begins.” – (Goins)
What’s Next for the Underdogs?
Medina Alvarez’s reward for his victory? A Round of 16 matchup against No. 7 Quang Duong. While Alvarez’s momentum is high, Duong presents a new challenge with his precise and powerful game.
Goins, on the other hand, will face a monumental task in the next round, where he’s set to go up against No. 2 Ben Johns, one of the sport’s most dominant players. Goins acknowledged the challenge ahead, saying,
“I’m excited to face Ben. He’s one of the best, but anything can happen out there.” – (Goins)
A Day of Drama in Virginia
The upsets on Day 1 have set the stage for what promises to be an unpredictable tournament. With big names falling early, the door is open for fresh faces to make deep runs. The PPA Virginia Beach is proving, yet again, that in the world of pickleball, every point matters.
News in Brief: Upsets Shatter PPA Virginia Beach Tournament
Round of 32 of the PPA Virginia Beach saw major upsets in the men’s division. No. 41 Jhonnatan Medina Alvarez defeated No. 11 Collin Shick in a tight three-game match, while No. 47 John Lucian Goins dismantled No. 16 Grayson Goldin with ease.
Alvarez will face No. 7 Quang Duong in the Round of 16, while Goins is set to challenge No. 2 Ben Johns. The early surprises have shaken up the bracket, adding intrigue to the tournament’s next rounds.
ALSO READ: Top Seeds Maintain Edge on PPA Virginia Beach Day 1: Underdogs Impress in Mixed Doubles
