Jack Sock Pickleball Semifinals Run: Jack Sock advanced to the men’s singles semifinals after defeating No. 13 seed Noe Khlif in a three-game match on Thursday. The No. 7 seed rallied from a slow start to win 4-11, 11-6, 11-6 in their first meeting of the season.
Sock’s Path to Victory
This was not the first time Jack Sock had to battle back. Earlier in the day, he lost opening games against Rio Newcombe, Max Freeman, and Roscoe Bellamy but came back to win all three matches. Against Noe Khlif, the same pattern repeated as Sock found his rhythm after dropping the first game.
Though Sock built his tennis career on powerful serves and forehands, it was his backhand that proved decisive in this match. His improved backhand gave him the edge to control rallies and finish points.
A New Weapon Emerges
Pickleballtv analyst Dave Fleming noticed Sock’s strong backhand and asked about it after the match.
“I don’t have to run around to hit the forehand as much, which is really nice. I think I’m just gonna label it the ‘Boomstick Backhand’ now because I can actually do something with it, which is a great feeling.
I haven’t had that in twenty years of racket sports, so it’s nice to finally have a backhand and be able to do something with it.”(Jack Sock)
Sock’s new “Boomstick Backhand” gave him confidence and variety in his game, making him a tougher opponent on the court.
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What’s Next
Jack Sock will now face No. 11 seed John Lucian Goins in the semifinals. The winner will earn a spot on Championship Sunday. With momentum on his side, Sock’s ability to rely on both forehand and backhand could be key in his next challenge.
News in Brief: Jack Sock Pickleball Semifinals Run
Jack Sock defeated Noe Khlif 4-11, 11-6, 11-6 to reach the men’s singles semifinals. The No. 7 seed has now come back from losing the first game in four straight matches. Sock credited his improved “Boomstick Backhand” for the win. He next faces No. 11 seed John Lucian Goins.
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