Megan Fudge Clinches 7th APP Gold in Chicago: The 2024 Zimmer Biomet APP Chicago Open, hosted by the Association of Pickleball Players (APP), drew a packed crowd and a national television audience to Danny Cunniff Park along Lake Michigan.
The women’s singles final at the 2024 Zimmer Biomet APP Chicago Open was a clash of pickleball titans, featuring two of the sport’s most decorated professionals. Megan Fudge, renowned as the APP Tour’s all-time leader in women’s medals, faced off against Simone Jardim, the record-holder for the most women’s gold medals in the tour’s history. The match, held at Danny Cunniff Park, was a statement to the high level of competition and skill in pickleball.
How it Went
In a gripping encounter, Fudge narrowly defeated Jardim in the first game with a score of 17-15. Jardim, known for her resilience and strategic play, came back strong in the second game. Despite a valiant effort, Jardim couldn’t overcome Fudge’s determination, who sealed the match with a 16-14 victory. This win added to Fudge’s impressive tally, marking her seventh gold medal of 2024.
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Fudge’s Thoughts
Fudge described the match as a strategic duel, likening it to a chess game. “It was a nailbiter, it felt like a chess game out there trying to figure out what each other was going to do,” she said. She praised Jardim’s performance, acknowledging the challenge posed by her opponent. Fudge also expressed gratitude towards her support team, including her husband and coach, and extended thanks to Intersport and Zimmer Biomet for their support in making the event possible.
“Credit to Simone, she played a fantastic match. Thank you to my team, my husband and my coach for sticking with me, and shoutout to Intersport and Zimmer Biomet for allowing us to live our dream and play pickleball out here.”-(megan)
Bronze Medal Achievement
Rachael James earned the bronze medal in women’s singles, achieving her first APP Tour medal of the season. James’s performance was a notable highlight, adding to the excitement and competitive spirit of the tournament.
News in Brief: Megan Fudge Clinches 7th APP Gold in Chicago
The 2024 Zimmer Biomet APP Chicago Open at Danny Cunniff Park showcased a thrilling women’s singles final between pickleball legends Megan Fudge and Simone Jardim. Fudge, the APP Tour’s all-time leader in women’s medals, edged out Jardim in a dramatic match, winning 17-15 and 16-14 to secure her seventh gold medal of the year.
Fudge praised Jardim’s performance and expressed gratitude to her support team and event sponsors. Rachael James claimed the bronze medal, marking her first APP Tour medal of the season and adding to the tournament’s excitement.
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