National Champion Imani Phillips: Imani Phillips took a major step toward her goal of becoming a professional pickleball player by entering the women’s pro qualifier singles at the Daytona Beach Open in Florida. Phillips, one of 1,417 players registered for the Professional Pickleball Association Tour event, competed against 33 other women for a chance to make the main draw.
Path to the Main Draw
Phillips needed to qualify from a pool of 34 women, with only eight players advancing to the main draw. A strong performance would allow her to face off against some of the best players, including former professional tennis player Eugenie Bouchard, who reached the Wimbledon final in 2014.
“This is my first pro singles tournament and I’m doing the open singles division,”. “I’ve to qualify from a group of 34 women that are in the qualifying round. Eight will go through to the main draw, so I’ve prepared myself for a long day and I’m ready to fight.”( Imani Phillips)
Training and Preparation
Phillips had been preparing for this challenge by working hard on her game. After winning two gold medals and a silver at the National Pickleball Championships the previous month, Phillips headed to Fort Myers for more training.
“I have spent five hours on court every day working with my coach Hercilio Cabieses,”. “I’ve had an amazing journey over the last two weeks getting to know my game. I’ve worked on mental toughness, really getting me to a place when I can compete at a professional level and coming up with competitive strategies.”( Imani Phillips)
View this post on Instagram
Looking Ahead
Phillips was excited about the tournament and focused on making it to the championship final.
“The championship final is on Sunday, and that’s where I want to end up. I’m just going to keep persevering so that I can get there,” ( Imani Phillips).
Significance of the Event
Phillips’ participation in the Daytona Beach Open marked an important milestone in her pickleball journey. If she succeeds in qualifying for the main draw, she will continue to build her career and compete against top-level athletes, solidifying her status in the professional pickleball scene.
News in Brief: National Champion Imani Phillips
Imani Phillips entered the women’s pro qualifier singles at the Daytona Beach Open, aiming to qualify for the main draw. After winning medals at the National Pickleball Championships, she trained intensely for the event. Phillips aims to compete at a high level and advance in her professional pickleball career.
ALSO READ: Ben Johns’ New Partnership Set to Heat Up the 2025 PPA Tour Season