Christian Alshon’s Heated Reaction to Eric Oncins: A fiery quarterfinal showdown at the Veolia North Carolina Open on Friday, April 4, 2025, may have sparked a brewing rivalry between teammates. Christian Alshon showed clear frustration with Eric Oncins after Oncins’ intense post-match celebration following their men’s doubles upset win at Cary Tennis Park in Cary, North Carolina.
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Oncins and Frazier Pull Off Comeback Victory
The No. 8 seeds Eric Oncins and Dylan Frazier shocked fans by rallying from a 5-10 deficit in the third game and saving five match points to beat the No. 3 seeds Christian Alshon and Andrei Daescu, 11-3, 6-11, 12-10. The win ended Alshon and Daescu’s gold medal streak, as they had won their last three tournaments together.
After the final point—Daescu’s return into the net—Oncins slammed his paddle down and celebrated with enthusiasm before making his way to the net for the handshake. While Daescu eventually shook hands, Alshon refused, instead flipping off his new Texas Ranchers teammate in response to what he saw as poor sportsmanship.
History of Tension Between Alshon and Oncins
This wasn’t the first time Christian Alshon and Eric Oncins clashed. Just weeks ago at the 2025 CIBC Texas Open, Oncins and Alix Truong stunned Alshon and Catherine Parenteau in mixed doubles. That match also went to three games, and Alshon questioned the legality of Oncins’ serve.
The growing tension is notable, especially since Oncins joined the Texas Ranchers in March, traded from Miami Pickleball Club for Noe Khlif and cash. At the time, some in the community were surprised by the trade, considering Khlif’s stronger tour results.
Since the trade, though, Oncins has been on fire, picking up big wins and silencing critics. But his on-court behavior continues to draw attention—especially from his new teammate.
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Alshon’s Alpha Attitude Meets Oncins’ Energy
Alshon, often referred to as the ‘Tweener King’, is known for his dominant presence on the court and his loud, competitive style. Despite injuries and illness in 2024, he helped lead the Ranchers to a Premier Level fourth-place finish and started 2025 strong with 13 PPA medals.
Both Alshon and Oncins have bold personalities, and their on-court energy can sometimes clash. Alshon’s visible anger on Friday showed just how much the celebration rubbed him the wrong way. As the Major League Pickleball (MLP) season approaches, questions are rising about their ability to play as a team.
Eyes on MLP Orlando
With MLP Orlando scheduled for April 24-27 at the USTA National Campus in Orlando, Florida, all eyes will be on whether Alshon and Oncins can set their differences aside. It’s unclear if Alshon will request a trade or if the Ranchers will need to intervene.
Whether this friction is temporary or part of a deeper conflict remains to be seen. But fans and analysts will be watching how it unfolds on and off the court in the coming weeks.
News in Brief: Christian Alshon’s Heated Reaction to Eric Oncins
Christian Alshon refused to shake hands with Eric Oncins after losing a quarterfinal match at the Veolia North Carolina Open. Oncins’ loud celebration after the upset win sparked tension. Both players are set to play for the Texas Ranchers at MLP Orlando later this month.
ALSO READ: Catherine Parenteau and Christian Alshon Stage Thrilling Comeback at 2025 Veolia North Carolina Open