CJ Klinger and Andrei Daescu captured the men’s doubles title at the Daytona Beach Open with a thrilling 13-11, 11-2, 11-9 victory over Pablo Tellez and Dekel Bar. Their win marked a significant achievement, with Klinger securing his first career title on the PPA Tour.
CJ Klinger and Andrei Daescu Stage Dramatic Comeback in Game One
A pivotal moment in the match occurred during the first game when Klinger and Daescu faced a 7-10 deficit. They displayed remarkable resilience by saving six game points, ultimately stealing the game and taking an early lead. Daescu emphasized the importance of this comeback, stating,
“Props to CJ—he dealt with the pressure really well and we were able to close out the first game, which kind of set the tone for the rest of the match.” – (Daescu)
This comeback provided Klinger and Daescu the momentum they needed to dominate the subsequent games.
Andrei Daescu and CJ Klinger Show Strategic Play
Throughout the match, Klinger and Daescu demonstrated impressive teamwork and strategy. They focused on steadying the game and controlling the kitchen line despite Tellez and Bar’s aggressive playing style.
Daescu mentioned that he had anticipated the strong start from their opponents, having watched their semifinal match the day before.
“I stayed a little longer yesterday and watched [Pablo and Dekel] play their semifinal, and I told CJ coming in that they were gonna try and take it to us early, which they definitely did. They were driving-and-crashing very well, and so we just had to steady the waters a little bit and get comfortable at the kitchen line.” – (Daescu)
Their ability to adapt to the pressure allowed them to secure the title confidently.
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CJ Klinger Celebrates His First Title on the PPA Tour
For Klinger, this victory is particularly meaningful. The 18-year-old has shown great talent throughout the year, winning silver in Milwaukee and even defeating the renowned Johns brothers at the World Championships. He expressed his satisfaction with the win, stating,
“It comes down to all the hard work and dedication. I’ve been so close so many times, and it just feels really good to come out on top today.” – (Klinger)
Klinger’s win at the Daytona Beach Open marks a significant milestone in his emerging career.
Federico Staksrud and Hayden Patriquin Shine in Bronze Match
In the bronze medal match, the top-seeded duo of Federico Staksrud and Hayden Patriquin defeated AJ Koller and Matt Wright with scores of 11-8, 11-3. This victory further solidifies Staksrud and Patriquin’s status as top competitors in the men’s doubles.
News in Brief: CJ Klinger and Andrei Daescu
CJ Klinger and Andrei Daescu won the men’s doubles title at the Daytona Beach Open, defeating Pablo Tellez and Dekel Bar 13-11, 11-2, 11-9. Klinger, celebrating his first PPA Tour title, played a crucial role in a dramatic comeback during the first game, saving six game points.
The duo showed strong teamwork and strategic play, maintaining control at the kitchen line. In the bronze medal match, Federico Staksrud and Hayden Patriquin defeated AJ Koller and Matt Wright 11-8, 11-3, solidifying their status in the men’s doubles.
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