Rafa Hewett and Noe Khlif delivered a major upset on Thursday, defeating No. 4 seeds JW Johnson and Gabe Tardio in the men’s doubles Round of 16 at the PPA Masters. The duo, seeded No. 15, claimed victory in straight games, 11-7, 11-7, at Mission Hills Country Club in Palm Springs.
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A Team Effort in Their First Tournament Together
Hewett and Khlif, playing as a team for the first time, showed strong chemistry and executed a well-rounded strategy. They combined patience in extended dink rallies with sharp reflexes during fast-paced exchanges, overwhelming their higher-seeded opponents.
“Noe has a crazy good drive and a great drop,”. “Once we get up to the kitchen line, we can work the ball around, figure out which ball we want to pull the trigger on, and our hands do the rest.”(Rafa Hewett, praising his partner)
Next Challenge in Quarterfinals
On Friday, the duo will face Christian Alshon and Andrei Daescu in the quarterfinals. Their confidence is growing as they aim to continue their momentum against another skilled pairing.
Impact of the Upset
This victory highlights the unpredictability of the PPA Masters and the depth of talent on the tour. Hewett and Khlif’s performance as first-time partners demonstrates that determination and synergy can overcome rankings. Their progress will be closely watched as they move deeper into the tournament.
News in Brief: Rafa Hewett and Noe Khlif
Rafa Hewett and Noe Khlif upset No. 4 seeds JW Johnson and Gabe Tardio in the PPA Masters Round 16, winning 11-7, 11-7. Competing together for the first time, the No. 15 seeds displayed strong teamwork and strategy. They advance to face Christian Alshon and Andrei Daescu in the quarterfinals.
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