Lacy Schneemann and Tyson McGuffin stunned top seeds Jessie Irvine and Gabe Tardio in a dramatic five-set match to win the mixed doubles title at the Proton Australia Pickleball Open. The pair triumphed 8-11, 6-11, 11-9, 11-8, 11-8 in a thrilling contest that lasted nearly two hours.
The No. 2 seeds were on the brink of defeat, trailing 6-9 in Game 3 after dropping the first two games. However, they rallied with a five-point run to extend the match. The momentum shift gave Schneemann and McGuffin the confidence they needed to dominate the final two games and complete the comeback.
Key Performances from Schneemann and McGuffin
Schneemann’s play on the right side of the court proved crucial in the victory. Positioned directly across from Tardio, she initially struggled against his speed but adjusted her strategy to counter his attacks. Her anticipation and ability to hit backhand counters out in front of her body became key in the latter stages of the match.
Additionally, Schneemann’s court positioning was vital. When McGuffin would run around his backhand to hit a forehand dink, Schneemann seamlessly covered the middle of the court, helping to extend rallies in critical moments. This tactical play kept the pressure on their opponents and allowed them to secure the title.
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First Gold Medal for Schneemann and McGuffin
This victory marked Schneemann’s first career PPA title.
“I’ve had quite a few silvers on the PPA Tour (seven, to be exact), so to get my first gold in a thriller—a five setter—alongside Tyson, I’m feeling pretty special right now,”.(Lacy Schneemann)
McGuffin also secured his first PPA gold medal since the 2023 Tournament of Champions, where he won a Triple Crown. This win was especially sweet for McGuffin, who now looks to add another Triple Crown to his achievements. He and Tardio will soon team up in men’s doubles, where they will face CJ Klinger and Quang Duong.
Bronze Medal Match Results
In the bronze medal match, Allyce Jones and Jay Devilliers defeated Vivian Glozman and Quang Duong with an 11-2, 11-6 scoreline. The result solidified their position on the podium, while Glozman and Duong will now focus on improving their performances for future competitions.
Looking Ahead
Schneemann and McGuffin’s victory at the Proton Australia Pickleball Open highlights their growth as a team and individual athletes. As they move forward, Schneemann aims to defend her doubles title with partner Vivian Glozman, while McGuffin is eyeing another Triple Crown in the men’s division.
News in Brief: Lacy Schneemann and Tyson McGuffin
Lacy Schneemann and Tyson McGuffin won the mixed doubles title at the Proton Australia Pickleball Open, defeating top seeds Jessie Irvine and Gabe Tardio in a dramatic five-set comeback. This marks Schneemann’s first PPA title and McGuffin’s first gold since 2023, while Allyce Jones and Jay Devilliers took bronze.
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