Memorable APP Chicago Moments: Chicago, the vibrant hub of the APP Tour, offered a week filled with unforgettable moments on the pickleball courts and social media. The 2024 Zimmer Biomet APP Chicago Open was a showcase of remarkable achievements and social highlights.
Play Ball
The week kicked off with a unique twist as the Chicago White Sox hosted APP pro Chris Haworth and Melissa McCurley, the APP’s executive vice president of competition. McCurley was honored as the Hero of the Game for her military service. Haworth, the APP’s top-ranked men’s singles player, clinched gold in men’s pro singles on Sunday, marking his fifth win of the year.
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Give and Take
The APP made a memorable impact by organizing a pickleball clinic for 30 residents of Misericordia, a community dedicated to people with disabilities. APP founder Ken Hermann and pros Mari Humberg and Riley Bohnert led the session, creating an inspiring experience for everyone involved. It was a powerful reminder of pickleball’s potential to bring joy and opportunity to all.
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Better When I’m Dancing
For those skeptical of the APP Tour’s vibrant atmosphere, a fun reel from our partners at Lock’dIn offers a glimpse of the excitement. The reel captures the infectious energy and camaraderie of the tour, proving once again that the APP Tour is full of winning vibes.
When @OfficialAPPTour x @LiveLockdIn get together it’s a party! 💃🏻🕺🏻#LockdIn pic.twitter.com/S3yyeUgLwa
— Lock'dIn Beverages (@LiveLockdIn) September 1, 2024
Eye on the Prize
Arielle Butler achieved her goal of making a semifinal by the end of the year at the Windy City event. Partnering with Cami Garcia-Wright, Butler reached the semifinals in the women’s pro doubles event, where they faced off against silver medalists Mari Humberg and Amanda Hendry. This accomplishment marks a significant milestone in Butler’s career.
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Attitude is Everything
Eric Oncins’ tournament experience was notable, especially his debut in singles competition. His positive outlook and ability to find humor in the challenges will surely lead to future successes.
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Iceberg, Right Ahead
Megan Fudge continued her dominant performance on the APP Tour, capturing her 18th medal by winning gold in the women’s pro singles final against Simone Jardim. Fudge’s reflections on the challenges of success show the importance of taking breaks and maintaining balance.
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Gold Strike
Mari Humberg and Eric Oncins secured their first gold medals in mixed pro doubles. Their victory highlights a promising start for the Brazilian duo.
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Hammer Time
Bobbi Oshiro and Susannah Barr delivered a powerful performance in the women’s doubles bracket, defeating several strong teams, including the second-seeded pair of Megan Fudge and Jill Braverman. Their win over Mari Humberg and Amanda Hendry for gold was a testament to their skill and determination.
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One of One
Ryler DeHeart reflects on the unique nature of pickleball, where players from diverse backgrounds come together to compete at high levels. This inclusivity is a major win for the sport and for DeHeart, who enjoys sharing his passion with his family.
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Champs on Champs
The men’s pro doubles final featured four players with gold medals under their belts. Will Howells and CJ Klinger emerged victorious, securing their second gold of the year with impressive runs in both games against Jack Munro and Rob Nunnery.
It’s About the Journey
While medals are the goal, the journey is equally important. The tournament was a reminder of the valuable experiences gained along the way, as highlighted by those who embrace the journey of pickleball.
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Bringing People Together
Beyond the competition, pickleball’s greatest achievement is bringing people together. The eighth APP Tour stop of the year showed this spirit, making it the biggest win of all.
The energy in Highland Park, Illinois was incredible this weekend as skilled players from all over the country flew in to compete in Pickleball. This sport is not going anywhere. Congrats to the @OfficialAPPTour for such a successful event. #pickleball #highlandpark pic.twitter.com/d87oFIiDSN
— Karl Yaacoub (@KarlYaacoub) September 3, 2024
That’s a wrap from the Windy City and the 2024 Zimmer Biomet APP Chicago Open. Stay tuned for more updates from Columbus, Ohio!
News in Brief: Memorable APP Chicago Moments
The 2024 Zimmer Biomet APP Chicago Open showcased remarkable moments on and off the courts. Chris Haworth secured his fifth gold medal, while Arielle Butler reached her semifinal goal. The APP made a meaningful impact with a pickleball clinic for Misericordia residents.
Megan Fudge captured her 18th medal, and Mari Humberg and Eric Oncins won their first mixed pro doubles gold. The tournament highlighted pickleball’s unique ability to bring people together, making it a significant win beyond the medals.
ALSO READ: Megan Fudge’s Summer Journey: Challenges and Global Adventures
