Anna Leigh Waters and Ben Johns Capture 40th Mixed Doubles Title: At the PPA Virginia Beach Cup, Anna Leigh Waters and Ben Johns claimed their 40th mixed doubles title, defeating the Jorja Johnson and JW Johnson in a hard-fought match that ended 11-7, 11-7, 10-12, 11-3.
The top seeds faced a challenge as the Johnsons rallied from a 10-6 deficit in Game 3, but Waters and Johns regained their composure to secure the win. Waters emphasized the importance of staying true to their game against strong opponents, setting the stage for their singles matches later in the day.
Johnsons Push the Limits
As the match started, it seemed that the top seeds were destined for a straightforward victory, holding a commanding 10-6 lead in Game 3. However, the Johnsons demonstrated their tenacity by saving five match points, ultimately forcing a fourth game and momentarily rattling Waters and Johns.
“We felt a bit of pressure when they started to fight back. But we just needed to regain our focus.” – (johns)
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Getting Back to Basics
Following their brief lapse in momentum, Waters and Johns regrouped, demonstrating why they are considered a powerhouse in mixed doubles. Their strategy of returning to basics proved pivotal in clinching Game 4 comfortably.
“I started concentrating on playing solid points and making the drops. If you’re lazy on your drops and try to come in, then you can give up some easy points.” – (johns)
Despite remaining undefeated against the Johnsons in 2024, Waters acknowledged that this matchup has often pushed them to the brink. The Johnson siblings came close to victory during the semifinals of the Orange County Cup in June, reminding Waters and Johns that they must remain vigilant.
Staying True to Their Game
In the face of such formidable opponents, Waters emphasized the importance of sticking to their style of play.
“I think with the Johnsons, it’s about remembering to play your own game. They like to play super fast, and I think Ben and I would rather dink a couple more balls before speeding it up. We just have to remember to stay true to ourselves and know that they’re gonna hit some amazing shots.” – (waters)
With the mixed doubles title secured, both players are set to compete again later that day in their respective singles matches. Waters will face off against Brooke Buckner, while Johns prepares to take on Hunter Johnson, eager to extend their successful run.
News in Brief: Anna Leigh Waters and Ben Johns Capture 40th Mixed Doubles Title
At the PPA Virginia Beach Cup, Anna Leigh Waters and Ben Johns claimed their 40th mixed doubles title, defeating the Johnson siblings in a hard-fought match that ended 11-7, 11-7, 10-12, 11-3. The top seeds faced a challenge as the Johnsons rallied from a 10-6 deficit in Game 3, but Waters and Johns regained their composure to secure the win.
Waters emphasized the importance of staying true to their game against strong opponents, setting the stage for their singles matches later in the day.
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