Lacy Schneemann and Tyson McGuffin won the Mixed Doubles title at the Australia Pickleball Open in Melbourne on February 2, 2025. They overcame Jessie Irvine and Gabriel Tardio in a five-game thriller, 8-11, 6-11, 11-9, 11-8, 11-8.
A Comeback Victory
The win marked Schneemann’s first PPA title and McGuffin’s first since his Triple Crown at the Tournament of Champions in 2023. Irvine and Tardio were two points away from victory in Game Three but could not close it out.
The match featured 204 rallies, with 40% lasting at least 10 shots. The longest rally reached 38 shots, reflecting the players’ defensive skills and shot-making precision.
Key Statistics
For the first time since 2022, all four players recorded at least 10 clean winners. McGuffin and Schneemann played aggressively, hitting 61 third-shot drives and 34 drops, while Irvine and Tardio had a more balanced approach with 55 drives and 45 drops.
McGuffin led the match in Ernes, executing five, while Irvine defended four Ernes successfully. Tardio had the highest number of clean winners with 15, showcasing his attacking mindset.
Momentum Shifts and Tactical Play
McGuffin and Schneemann struggled with game points, winning only three of ten opportunities. Irvine and Tardio were more efficient, winning both of their game points. The match also featured nine offensive lobs, with McGuffin winning both of his attempts while Irvine converted only one of four.
Dinking accuracy was another crucial factor, with Schneemann making 10 unforced dink errors, the most of any player. Despite this, she held her composure in the later stages of the match to help secure the win.
Impact and Reactions
Schneemann’s victory marks a major milestone in her career, while McGuffin’s return to the winner’s circle reinforces his status as a top competitor.
The dramatic comeback win highlights the growing competition in professional pickleball, promising more exciting matches in the future.
News in Brief: Tyson McGuffin and Lacy Schneemann
Lacy Schneemann and Tyson McGuffin claimed the Mixed Doubles title at the 2025 Australia Pickleball Open after a thrilling five-game comeback against Jessie Irvine and Gabriel Tardio.
The match featured 204 rallies, strategic shot-making, and momentum shifts. Schneemann secured her first PPA title, while McGuffin returned to winning form for the first time since 2023.
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