Rachel Rohrabacher and Anna Bright Dethrone the Pickleball Queens: In a highly anticipated final at the Lapiplasty Pickleball World Championships, the No. 2 seeded Rachel Rohrabacher and Anna Bright made history with an impressive 11-4, 11-8, 11-6 victory over the previously unbeaten No. 1 seeds, Anna Leigh Waters and Catherine Parenteau. This marks the third time Rohrabacher and Bright have won over the formidable duo of Waters and Parenteau, further solidifying their place at the top of women’s doubles.
A Strategic Game Plan
“We wanted to shut down some things that they’re best at. They were driving and crashing and we were ready. It will continue to be a chess match against this team as we continue to face them in a lot more finals. But I’m excited for the progression.” – (Anna Bright)
The final, undoubtedly the fastest defeat of Waters and Parenteau by Rohrabacher and Bright, was a result of excellent preparation and execution. From the outset, it was clear the pair had come out fired up, determined to deny the top seeds any advantage.
“They have great hands. So, we had to be settled and not force anything. We switched sides a lot but it’s about staying solid and disciplined.” – (Anna Bright)
Rohrabacher and Bright’s consistency was key to their victory, as they stuck to their plan of controlling the game and minimizing their opponents’ opportunities.
Confidence and Composure on Display
This win marks the third consecutive victory for Rohrabacher and Bright over Waters and Parenteau in finals, but it was the most decisive. Rohrabacher reflected on their strategy and the importance of staying calm under pressure.
“I think we’ve got into a groove against them and know what to do. We have to shut down the things that make them feel really confident early and I think that can get them in a little bit more of a panic. They definitely didn’t play their best today but we did a really good job of going to remind each other to settle in, which has been a common theme for us in each match.” – (Rachel Rohrabacher)
The match was a show of teamwork and focus, as Rohrabacher and Bright’s communication remained impeccable.
“I think that’s probably the best we’ve done in a match against them. I’m really pleased with how we did it and I think our energy was phenomenal. I’m feeling just so many emotions. I’m really happy and really thankful. It’s been amazing all week playing against the elements in the rain, in the dark, I’m so happy.” – (Anna Bright)
Gold Medal Victory
In the end, Rohrabacher and Bright stood on the podium as gold medalists, leaving with the highest honor in women’s doubles. Waters and Parenteau, though outplayed, earned silver for their valiant efforts.
Meanwhile, Allyce Jones and Hurricane Tyra Black secured the bronze, defeating Lea Jansen and Tina Pisnik in a hard-fought match, 1-11, 11-9, 11-8.
News in Brief: Rachel Rohrabacher and Anna Bright Dethrone the Pickleball Queens
Rachel Rohrabacher and Anna Bright defeated Anna Leigh Waters and Catherine Parenteau 11-4, 11-8, 11-6 to win the women’s doubles gold at the Lapiplasty Pickleball World Championships.
The No. 2 seeds took down the previously undefeated No. 1 duo in their third straight victory over them. Waters and Parenteau earned silver, while Allyce Jones and Hurricane Tyra Black claimed bronze in a dramatic 1-11, 11-9, 11-8 match against Lea Jansen and Tina Pisnik.