Anna Bright and Federico Staksrud advanced to the mixed doubles semifinals at the Veolia North Carolina Open after a hard-fought 11-3, 8-11, 11-5 win over No. 7 seeds Jessie Irvine and Gabe Tardio. The match took place at Cary Tennis Park in Cary, NC, on Mixed Doubles Day.
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Comeback and Momentum Shift
Bright and Staksrud, the No. 4 seeds, dominated early, taking the first game 11-3 and building an 8-2 lead in the second. However, Irvine and Tardio stormed back with nine straight points to force a deciding third game.
In the final game, Bright and Staksrud regained control, closing out the match convincingly. Staksrud credited their improved energy for the turnaround.
“I think they started a little slow, and we took advantage of that. Honestly, even at 11-3, 8-2, I knew something was weird because even though we were up big, we didn’t have really good energy. I’m just glad that we picked it up in the third game.” – (Staksrud)
Bright’s Return to Competition
Bright recently returned from playing in the JOOLA Pickleball Legends Tour in Vietnam and China. She admitted the quick transition back to competition in the U.S. was challenging.
“I think I played pretty well, all things considered, but I’m feeling very tired, a little jittery, and a little weak. I’m just glad that Fed and I were able to get through it today, and I’m sure that every day will be a little better for me.” – (Bright)
Semifinal Showdown Ahead
With the victory, Bright and Staksrud move on to face top seeds Anna Leigh Waters and Ben Johns in the semifinals. The matchup will be a major test as they continue their run at the Veolia North Carolina Open.
News in Brief: Anna Bright and Federico Staksrud
Anna Bright and Federico Staksrud reached the mixed doubles semifinals at the Veolia North Carolina Open after a three-game win over Jessie Irvine and Gabe Tardio. Despite a second-game collapse, they regained control to win 11-3, 8-11, 11-5. They now face top seeds Anna Leigh Waters and Ben Johns.