Mixed Doubles Shake-Up at Red Rock Ope: The PPA Tour moves west this week for the Black Desert Resort Red Rock Open in St. George, Utah. While St. George may not be the biggest city on the tour, it has a strong pickleball community, ensuring a well-attended event. Some top players, including Ben Johns, Anna Bright, and Gabe Tardio, are sitting out, creating opportunities for others to make deep runs.
Wide-Open Mixed Doubles Field
With Ben Johns absent, Anna Leigh Waters has opted to skip mixed doubles, and Anna Bright is also out. This leaves two typically occupied medal spots open. Jorja Johnson and JW Johnson take the No. 1 seed, coming off strong performances. Christian Alshon and Catherine Parenteau follow at No. 2, with Federico Staksrud and Etta Tuionetoa seeded third. Both pairings are solid contenders.
Two lower-seeded teams to watch are Hayden Patriquin and Rachel Rohrabacher at No. 5, along with Dekel Bar and Parris Todd at No. 6. Both teams have favorable draws and could make a deep run. Meanwhile, No. 22 seed CJ Klinger and Mari Humberg may have an outside shot at advancing if they capitalize on their opportunities.
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Impact of Absences on Competition
The absence of top-ranked players shifts the tournament dynamics, giving rising stars a chance to shine. With an unpredictable mixed doubles field, the competition could produce unexpected results. St. George’s passionate pickleball fanbase is set to enjoy an exciting tournament as new contenders aim for the podium.
News in Brief: Mixed Doubles Shake-Up at Red Rock Ope
The PPA Tour stops in St. George, Utah, for the Black Desert Resort Red Rock Open. With top players absent, the mixed doubles field is wide open. Jorja and JW Johnson lead as the No. 1 seed, while lower-seeded teams like Hayden Patriquin/Rachel Rohrabacher could surprise in this competitive event.
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