Katerina Stewart Dominates Early Rounds: Katerina Stewart won her Round of 32 match against Nicole Pitts on April 3 at the 2025 APP Fort Lauderdale Open in Florida, a USA Pickleball Golden Ticket Major. Stewart claimed the win in straight games, 15-12 and 15-8, advancing further in the tournament’s Women’s Pro Singles bracket.
Stewart Advances with Confident Performance
In one of the earliest matches of the APP Fort Lauderdale Open’s Women’s Pro Singles event, Katerina Stewart took control early and held off Nicole Pitts. The match began at 9:45 a.m., with Stewart securing a 15-12 victory in the first game. She followed up with a solid 15-8 second game to clinch the match.
This Round of 32 match was part of a verified USA Pickleball Golden Ticket event, which brings higher stakes for pro players due to increased prize money and national championship qualifying implications.
A Major Event at a Scenic Venue
The APP Fort Lauderdale Open is the first Major on the 2025 APP Tour calendar. As a Golden Ticket tournament, it offers not only enhanced prize pools but also spots in the USA Pickleball National Championships. It includes competition across all levels, from top pros to the AARP Champions and Masters Tours.
This year’s tournament marks the APP Tour’s return to Fort Lauderdale and “The Fort” venue, located within the 93-acre Snyder Park near Fort Lauderdale Airport. The site offers easy access to 24 miles of beaches and various off-court activities, such as local dining, sightseeing, and spas.
Impact and What’s Next
Katerina Stewart’s strong performance in the Round of 32 sets her up for a deep run in the Women’s Pro Singles bracket. As the tournament continues, fans can expect more intense matchups, especially with high-level pros competing for a share of the elevated prize pool and a Golden Ticket to nationals.
The Fort Lauderdale Open continues through the weekend, culminating in Championship Sunday. Stewart’s next challenge will be in the Round of 16, where she’ll face tougher competition as the draw narrows.
News in Brief: Katerina Stewart Dominates Early Rounds
Katerina Stewart beat Nicole Pitts in the Women’s Pro Singles Round of 32 at the 2025 APP Fort Lauderdale Open. Stewart won 15-12, 15-8 in a straight-game victory at the USA Pickleball Golden Ticket event. The tournament is the first Major of the year and continues through the weekend.
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