Federico Staksrud and Gabe Tardio, the top seeds in the men’s doubles draw, advanced to the final after securing a 7-11, 11-4, 11-2 victory over No. 4 seeds Pablo Tellez and Andrei Daescu. The match, which saw a strong comeback from the top seeds after dropping the opening game, showcased their ability to regroup and regain control, a skill that helped them capture gold earlier this year at the Selkirk Kansas City Open.
Tardio’s Adjustment Leads to Turnaround
After a shaky start in the first game, Gabe Tardio and Federico Staksrud refocused and turned the match around with solid play in the second and third games. Tardio attributed the shift to minimizing errors and making smarter decisions on the court.
“We just had to be a little more solid than we were in the first game and try and move them around more,” said Tardio. “It was really a combination of that and choosing better shots to attack.”
Tardio’s Busy Weekend Continues
With the win, Tardio, 19, has booked his spot in a second gold medal match at this year’s event in Milwaukee. In addition to competing for the men’s doubles title, Tardio will also vie for the mixed doubles championship alongside Jessie Irvine on Sunday.
Reflecting on his success this year, Tardio credited his ability to pick strong partners—both in terms of compatibility and personal chemistry. “I think I’m just really good at picking partners that match my game style and that I’m friends with on and off the court,” he said.
Staksrud and Tardio Aim for Another Title
Now, Staksrud and Tardio will turn their attention to the final, where they will face either No. 7 seeds James Ignatowich and CJ Klinger or No. 11 seeds Julian Arnold and Blaine Hovenier. The duo is aiming to capture their second title of the year, building on their momentum from the Kansas City Open.
News in Brief: Federico Staksrud and Gabe Tardio
Federico Staksrud and Gabe Tardio advanced to the men’s doubles final after a 7-11, 11-4, 11-2 win over No. 4 seeds Pablo Tellez and Andrei Daescu. Tardio credited improved decision-making for the turnaround, while also preparing for his mixed doubles final with Jessie Irvine. The duo will compete for their second title of 2024 in Milwaukee, facing either James Ignatowich/CJ Klinger or Julian Arnold/Blaine Hovenier in the championship match.
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