Day Three Highlights of PPA Tour: The third day of the Select Medical Orange County presented by Fitvine Wine Cup was a picture-perfect setting for some high-stakes pickleball. With temperatures in the comfortable 70s and not a whisper of wind, players took to the courts under ideal conditions, all aiming for a spot in Friday’s quarterfinals.
The action was intense, with players showcasing top-tier skills and unyielding determination. Here’s a closer look at some of the most memorable moments from the Round of 16.
Evans Journey Ended
Tom Evans, a rising star from Australia, made a big splash. After a strong run through the men’s singles qualifier, winning four matches, and taking two more in the main draw, Evans faced the tournament’s top seed, Federico Staksrud from Argentina. Staksrud, known for his powerful and precise game, proved too much for Evans, taking the match in straight sets. While Evans’ journey ended here, his performance has certainly turned heads. The big question is whether we’ll see him expand his game beyond singles in future tournaments. His presence on the PPA tour is a welcome addition to the growing international talent pool.
Close Calls and Tough Battles
The Round of 16 was packed with edge-of-your-seat action. Ben Johns squeezed past Naveen Beasley with matching 11-9 scores, showcasing his ability to pull through in tight situations. Tyson McGuffin and Parris Todd also faced fierce competition, eking out an 11-9 win in the third game. Likewise, the team of James Ignatowich and Tyler Loong clinched their victory with an 11-8 win in the deciding game. These nail-biters highlight the intense level of competition and set the stage for a thrilling quarterfinal round.
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Anna Leigh Waters in Command
While many matches were closely contested, Anna Leigh Waters (ALW) stood out with her dominant play. She breezed through her matches, losing only 18 points across three games and not dropping a single set. ALW’s performance is so commanding that she not only holds the top spot among women but also seems far ahead of her nearest competitors. Watching her play singles is like watching a master at work—her power, accuracy, pace, placement, serve, and return are unmatched. Her display of skill underscores the gap between her and the rest of the field, making her a clear favorite for the Triple Crown.
Top players are known for their steady play, but what sets them apart is how they handle pressure. Ben Johns, in particular, shines when the score is tight. His ability to dominate crucial points, especially when the score hits 8-8 or later, shows his mental toughness and skill under pressure. This quality is the mark of a true champion and explains why he consistently wins close games.
As we move forward, the level of play is only expected to get better. The PPA tour resumes on Friday with quarterfinal matches across all five events, promising more exhilarating pickleball action.
Stay tuned as the competition heats up and we edge closer to crowning the champions of the Select Medical Orange County Cup.
News in Brief: Day Three Highlights of PPA Tour
The third day of the Select Medical Orange County Cup featured ideal weather and intense competition as players battled for spots in the quarterfinals. Rising star Tom Evans impressed with a strong run before falling to top seed Federico Staksrud in straight sets, showcasing his potential on the PPA tour. Ben Johns and other top contenders faced nail-biting matches, underscoring the fierce competition heading into the quarterfinals.
Meanwhile, Anna Leigh Waters dominated her matches with commanding play, solidifying her status as a frontrunner in women’s singles. Johns’ ability to excel under pressure was evident, particularly in tight scorelines, highlighting his mental toughness. As the tournament progresses, anticipation builds for more thrilling action in the quest for the Orange County Cup title.
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