PPA Cincinnati Semifinals Set Up Thrilling Finals, QLD Slam Crowns Champs

Good afternoon, pickleballers - here we are on a Sunday!

Get all the latest pickleball news from the last 24 hours below.

PPA Tour Veolia Cincinnati Showcase: Semifinal Thrills Set Stage for Championship Sunday

Alshon and Garnett Set for Cincinnati Slam Showdown After Dominant Semifinal Wins

Mason, Ohio, USA – Christian Alshon and Connor Garnett have punched their tickets to the men’s singles gold medal match at the PPA Tour Veolia Cincinnati Showcase, setting the stage for a highly anticipated final on Sunday. Both players delivered straight-game victories in Saturday’s semifinals, showcasing exceptional form and mental fortitude.

No. 6 seed Christian Alshon kicked off the semifinals with a stunning 11-3, 11-7 triumph over top-seeded Hunter Johnson. The match saw a dramatic mid-game twist when Johnson took a medical timeout for a calf issue between games. Upon returning, Johnson surged to a 6-0 lead in the second game, but Alshon displayed remarkable composure, weathering the storm to secure eleven of the next twelve points, closing out the contest 11-7. “It’s easy to get mad when somebody starts playing really well, but at the same time, there’s no reason to get mad because you’re not the one doing it,” Alshon explained. This marks Alshon’s first final since winning the Texas Open in March.

In the second semifinal, Connor Garnett delivered a masterful performance, dominating No. 57 seed Chris Haworth with an 11-4, 11-1 scoreline. Haworth, who had previously upset Jack Sock and Federico Staksrud, found himself unable to counter Garnett’s expert ball placement at the kitchen line. Garnett’s strategy was clear: “When you’ve got a guy as long as Chris... I was just trying to keep him uncomfortable”. Garnett's run to the final has been particularly impressive, as he has not dropped a single game through five singles matches. He credits his recent Triple Crown at PPA Tour Asia’s Sansan Fukuoka Open for boosting his confidence. Sunday's final will be their third encounter this year, with Garnett winning their last meeting at the Orange County Cup.

Anna Bright and Andrei Daescu Sweep Johnson Siblings, Advance to Mixed Doubles Final

Mason, Ohio, USA – Anna Bright and Andrei Daescu delivered a dominant performance at the PPA Tour Veolia Cincinnati Showcase presented by Six Zero, securing their spot in the mixed doubles championship match. The formidable duo swept aside Jw Johnson and Jorja Johnson in straight games, 11-6, 11-1, on September 13, 2025.

From the opening serve, Bright and Daescu showcased exceptional teamwork and coordination, leaving the Johnson siblings struggling to keep pace. Anna Bright’s well-placed lobs consistently set up Andrei Daescu, who expertly finished points at the net, creating an unstoppable offensive force. Tournament officials lauded their synergy, noting, “Anna throws up the lob and Andrei is there to clean it up too good from this duo as they’re into Carvana Championship Sunday”.

Andrei Daescu, clearly in high spirits after the decisive victory, lightheartedly commented on his partnership with Bright. He joked, “She’s my biggest fan,” before playfully adding, “it’s a little dig at Anna Bright”. Reflecting on their dominant sweep, Daescu declared, “Beating the shock 2-0, getting the broom out and sweeping them,” emphasising the completeness of their win. With this commanding performance, Anna Bright and Andrei Daescu have built significant momentum through their undeniable chemistry and precision play. They now advance to Championship Sunday, where they are set to face another powerhouse duo: Anna Leigh Waters and Ben Johns.

Anna Leigh Waters Dazzles with 360° Shot, Dominates Path to Cincinnati Singles Final

Mason, Ohio, USA – Anna Leigh Waters showcased her unparalleled skill and dominant form at the PPA Tour Veolia Cincinnati Showcase, advancing to the women’s singles final on Saturday, September 13, 2025. Waters defeated Catherine Parenteau in a decisive straight-game victory, 11-3, 11-2, demonstrating complete control from start to finish.

Waters immediately set the tone, quickly building momentum in the semifinal match. She applied relentless pressure on Catherine Parenteau, a notoriously consistent player on tour, with a barrage of deep drives and powerful returns. Parenteau struggled to find her rhythm as Waters dictated the pace, securing the first game with a convincing 11-3 score.

The second game continued in much the same vein, with Waters maintaining her stranglehold on the match. Despite Parenteau’s attempts to adjust her strategy, Waters continued to dominate with sharp angles and aggressive net play. She quickly established a commanding lead, closing out the game 11-2 and sealing her spot in the final with minimal resistance.

A standout moment of the match, and indeed the tournament, was Anna Leigh Waters' execution of “The 360° drop volley”. This creative and audacious shot not only stunned her opponent but also electrified the crowd, serving as a powerful reminder of why Waters is widely considered one of the most exciting and innovative players in the sport today. With this dominant performance, blending sheer power with skillful shot-making, Anna Leigh Waters enters the championship match as a strong favourite. Catherine Parenteau will now shift her focus to doubles competition.

Waters and Johns Command Cincinnati Mixed Doubles Semifinal, Prepare for Championship Clash

Mason, Ohio, USA – Anna Leigh Waters and Ben Johns demonstrated their undisputed dominance at the PPA Tour Veolia Cincinnati Showcase presented by Six Zero, securing their place in the mixed doubles final. The top-tier pair swept aside Jessie Irvine and Gabriel Tardio in straight games, 11-1, 11-2, on September 13, 2025.

From the very first serve, Waters and Johns seized control, dictating the pace of play with their aggressive style and pinpoint shot placement. Their opponents, Irvine and Tardio, found themselves with little opportunity to build momentum, as the opening game quickly concluded with a resounding 11-1 victory for the dominant duo.

Ben Johns captivated the crowd with his exceptional athleticism around the net, showcasing movement and timing that made it nearly impossible for Irvine and Tardio to gain any traction. Tournament officials highlighted Johns’s prowess, remarking, “Ben Johns is showing off some phenomenal athleticism to hit overhead”.

The second game mirrored the first, with Waters’ quick reactions consistently setting up Johns, who finished points with both power and precision. This relentless pressure led to an 11-2 win, sealing their spot in the championship match without facing significant resistance. This commanding semifinal victory underscores the formidable partnership of Anna Leigh Waters and Ben Johns. Their unparalleled chemistry and consistent high-level play continue to make them one of the toughest teams to beat on the tour. With this win, Waters and Johns are set to face Anna Bright and Andrei Daescu in what promises to be a high-stakes mixed doubles final.

Johns and Tardio Dominate Semifinal, Eye Cincinnati Men's Doubles Crown

Mason, Ohio, USA – Gabriel Tardio and Ben Johns delivered a powerful performance in the men’s doubles semifinal at the PPA Tour Veolia Cincinnati Showcase presented by Six Zero, securing a straight-game victory on September 13, 2025. They decisively defeated CJ Klinger and JW Johnson 11-5, 11-9, earning their place in the championship round.

Johns and Tardio immediately established their authority, setting the match’s tempo with a relentless display of fast volleys and intelligent shot placement. Their opponents, Klinger and Johnson, were consistently pushed onto the defensive, struggling to find consistency against the steady rhythm of Johns and Tardio. Ben Johns, in particular, brought electrifying energy to the court, capping off the first game with a powerful forehand winner that ignited the crowd and sealed an 11-5 win.

The second game presented a tighter contest, with Klinger and Johnson elevating their play and forcing Johns and Tardio into longer, more challenging rallies. Despite the increased pressure, Johns and Tardio maintained their composure, showcasing solid teamwork and strategic play. Ben Johns once again stepped up with crucial shots in key moments, complemented by Gabriel Tardio’s unwavering presence at the net. Their ability to respond under duress proved decisive, as they closed out the game 11-9 to secure the straight-games victory. This semifinal win serves as a testament to the strength of Johns and Tardio’s partnership. Johns’s dynamic energy and skill, combined with Tardio’s consistent and steady play, proved to be an unbeatable combination. The victory propels them into the final, where they will aim to carry this impressive momentum forward in their pursuit of the Cincinnati men's doubles title.

Alshon and Daescu Stage Epic Comeback, Secure Spot in Cincinnati Men's Doubles Final

Mason, Ohio, USA – Christian Alshon and Andrei Daescu delivered one of the most dramatic and thrilling semifinal victories at the PPA Tour Veolia Cincinnati Showcase presented by Six Zero. On September 13, 2025, the duo mounted an epic comeback to defeat Federico Staksrud and Hayden Patriquin in a three-game battle, 12-14, 13-11, 11-1, earning their place in the men’s doubles final.

The match was hailed as a potential candidate for "match of the year," featuring relentless, fast-paced rallies and powerful shots that kept the Cincinnati crowd on the edge of their seats. Staksrud and Patriquin initially seized the advantage, narrowly clinching the first game with a 14-12 score. However, Alshon and Daescu, fueled by loud support from the stands, demonstrated incredible resilience. They fought back in the second game, holding their ground in crucial pressure points to secure a tight 13-11 victory, shifting the momentum in their favour.

With the tide turned, the decisive third game became a showcase of Alshon and Daescu’s dominance. They stormed ahead early, employing sharp teamwork and exceptionally steady play to systematically dismantle their opponents. The final score of 11-1 in the third game emphatically reflected their control and the completeness of their turnaround. Their relief and joy were palpable after finishing the job and advancing to the final. This hard-fought victory underscores the mental toughness and strategic prowess of Christian Alshon and Andrei Daescu. Carrying this immense confidence and momentum, they now move into the men's doubles championship round.

Kate Fahey Delivers Flawless Performance, Sweeps into Cincinnati Singles Final

Mason, Ohio, USA – Kate Fahey delivered a stunning and flawless performance at the PPA Tour Veolia Cincinnati Showcase presented by Six Zero, securing her place in the women’s singles final on Saturday, September 13, 2025. Fahey dominated her semifinal match against Lea Jansen, clinching a commanding 11-0, 11-7 victory.

Fahey opened the match with an astonishing display of control and precision. She swept through the entire first game, leaving Lea Jansen unable to score a single point, an extremely rare feat against a player of Jansen’s calibre. Fahey's ability to execute sharp passing shots with incredible accuracy kept Jansen constantly on the defensive, effectively setting a daunting tone for the remainder of the contest.

In the second game, Lea Jansen, a resilient competitor, mounted a stronger challenge. She fought hard to extend rallies and apply more pressure, managing to slow Fahey's blistering pace and reach seven points. However, Fahey remained composed and unyielding. With a series of decisive winners down the stretch, she skillfully closed out the game 11-7, completing the straight-games victory and showcasing her mental fortitude. Throughout the match, Kate Fahey’s consistent passing shots and agile court movement were the keys to her success. This victory underscores Fahey’s exceptional accuracy and her ability to dominate from the baseline. With this commanding semifinal win, Kate Fahey emerges as a strong contender for the Cincinnati Showcase title.

Kawamoto Sisters Stun Top Seeds Waters and Bright with Epic Cincinnati Comeback

Mason, Ohio, USA – Jackie Kawamoto and Jade Kawamoto orchestrated a dramatic and unforgettable comeback at the PPA Tour Veolia Cincinnati Showcase, stunning top seeds Anna Leigh Waters and Anna Bright to advance to the women’s doubles final on September 13, 2025. The No. 6 seeded sisters secured a thrilling three-game victory, 7-11, 11-6, 11-9, after trailing significantly in the decisive third game.

The match was an instant classic, with Waters and Bright appearing to be in full control and on the verge of victory when they established a commanding 9-4 lead in the final game. However, demonstrating incredible resilience and fighting spirit, the Kawamoto sisters rallied spectacularly, scoring an astonishing seven straight points to complete the upset. This defeat marked only the second consecutive loss for the previously dominant Waters and Bright, who had amassed an incredible 45-match winning streak as a pair.

The sisters credited the electric Cincinnati crowd for their pivotal role in inspiring their comeback. Jackie Kawamoto expressed her gratitude, stating, “I’m just so grateful for all our friends and family that came out. This crowd is so great. They really helped us the whole time. There’s something very special about this tournament”. As a lefty-righty partnership, a key strategic element for the Kawamotos was effectively covering the middle of the court with their forehands to counteract the powerful speedups from Waters and Bright. Jade Kawamoto explained, “We knew covering the middle was going to be a big thing for us, so we focused on that in the warmup”. This monumental win sends the Kawamoto sisters into their first championship match since the 2024 Milwaukee Open. In Sunday’s final, they will face the No. 4 seeds, Jorja Johnson and Tyra Black.

Black and Johnson Power Through Semifinals, Punch Ticket to Cincinnati Women's Doubles Final

Mason, Ohio, USA – Tyra Black and Jorja Johnson showcased their formidable partnership at the PPA Tour Veolia Cincinnati Showcase, securing a dominant straight-game victory in the women’s doubles semifinal on September 13, 2025. The dynamic duo defeated Parris Todd and Catherine Parenteau 11-4, 11-8, earning their place in the championship final.

Black and Johnson wasted no time establishing control in the first game. They quickly found their rhythm, employing sharp volleys and cohesive teamwork that forced errors from Todd and Parenteau. This strong start allowed them to comfortably take the opening game with an 11-4 score, setting a confident tone for the match.

The second game presented a more challenging contest, as Parris Todd and Catherine Parenteau elevated their level of play and fought hard to stay in the match. Points were traded, making the game a tighter affair. However, Black and Johnson demonstrated impressive composure and nerve in the critical moments. They strategically pulled ahead late in the game, closing out the match 11-8 and sealing their decisive victory. This semifinal win continues an impressive run of momentum for Tyra Black and Jorja Johnson. The duo recently celebrated a gold medal victory in Las Vegas, highlighting their strong current form and growing synergy as a team. Their consistent success and a clear path to the Cincinnati final underscore their rising strength on the PPA Tour. With this victory, Tyra Black and Jorja Johnson advance to the championship match, where they are set to face Jackie Kawamoto and Jade Kawamoto.

PPA Tour Australia: QLD Pickleball Slam + MLPA #4: Brisbane Crowns New Champions

Dikosavljevic Stuns Brisbane Crowd with Dominant Women's Singles Slam Victory

Brisbane, Australia – Andie Dikosavljevic delivered a commanding performance at the PPA Tour Australia: QLD Pickleball Slam + MLPA #4, clinching the Pro Women’s Singles 5.0 and Above title. Her impressive victory came after a three-game final against Roos Van Reek, with scores of 11-4, 10-12, 11-0.

Dikosavljevic started the championship match with an undeniable force, controlling the rallies and utilising strong shots to keep Van Reek off balance, ultimately winning the first game 11-4. Roos Van Reek, however, demonstrated resilience in the second game, adjusting her strategy and fighting back to narrowly secure a 12-10 win, momentarily halting Dikosavljevic’s momentum.

Any thoughts of a prolonged battle were quickly dispelled in the decisive third game. Dikosavljevic returned with an aggressive and relentless approach, leaving Van Reek unable to score a single point, sweeping the game 11-0 to emphatically claim the title. This dominant third-game performance underscored Dikosavljevic’s ability to regain focus and elevate her play when it mattered most. Earlier in the day, the bronze medal match saw Yufei Long secure third place by defeating Sahra Dennehy 11-7, 11-7. Long showcased consistent serves and smart placements, maintaining steady rallies that broke Dennehy’s rhythm. Andie Dikosavljevic’s emphatic victory in Brisbane not only adds another major title to her resume but also firmly reinforces her status as one of Australia’s top women’s pickleball players.

Dikosavljevic and Haas Edge Out Rivals to Claim QLD Pickleball Slam Women's Doubles Crown

Brisbane, Australia – The PPA Tour Australia: QLD Pickleball Slam + MLPA #4 concluded with Andie Dikosavljevic and Jamie Haas capturing the Pro Women’s Doubles 5.0 and Above title in a thrilling final. The formidable duo defeated Roos Van Reek and Somer Dalla-bona in straight games, 11-8, 13-11, showcasing exceptional skill and composure.

From the outset, Dikosavljevic and Haas asserted their dominance, effectively controlling the rallies with strong serves and aggressive net play. This strategic approach allowed them to secure the first game with a comfortable 11-8 lead. The second game proved to be a far more intense affair, captivating the Brisbane crowd with its nail-biting exchanges. Both teams traded points fiercely, demonstrating high-level pickleball and a refusal to yield. Despite the mounting pressure, Dikosavljevic and Haas maintained their focus, ultimately edging out their opponents 13-11 to clinch the championship. Their ability to perform under duress in crucial moments highlighted their strong partnership and championship mettle.

In the battle for third place, Nicola Schoeman and Danni-elle Townsend delivered a dominant performance, securing the bronze medal. They swiftly overcame Kaitlynn Hart and Lauren Mercado with scores of 11-2, 11-6. Schoeman and Townsend established early control in the first game with consistent shots and seamless teamwork, winning 11-2. They continued their strong performance in the second game, closing it out 11-6 and leaving Hart and Mercado with little opportunity to recover. The victory of Andie Dikosavljevic and Jamie Haas solidifies their reputation as one of Australia’s premier women’s doubles teams.

Townsend and Wild Crowned QLD Pickleball Slam Mixed Doubles Champions

Brisbane, Australia – Danni-elle Townsend and Joseph Wild emerged victorious at the PPA Tour Australia: QLD Pickleball Slam + MLPA #4, seizing the Pro Mixed Doubles 5.0 and Above title. The dominant duo defeated Roos Van Reek and George Wall in the final with scores of 11-5, 11-9.

Townsend and Wild wasted no time asserting their control in the championship match. They combined strong serves with sharp volleys, skillfully manipulating the net to force errors from Van Reek and Wall, ultimately securing the first game 11-5. The second game presented a closer contest, as Roos Van Reek and George Wall improved their coordination and offered stiffer resistance. However, Townsend and Wild showcased their composure and strategic acumen, staying ahead in key points and ultimately closing out the match with an 11-9 victory to claim the championship crown.

In the bronze medal match, Nicola Schoeman and Mitchell Hargreaves delivered a solid performance to secure third place. They defeated Kaitlynn Hart and Santhosh Narayanan 11-7, 11-6. Schoeman and Hargreaves quickly established control in the first game with precise shots, maintaining consistent pressure and smart positioning throughout the match. Despite attempts by Hart and Narayanan to mount a comeback in the second game, Schoeman and Hargreaves remained strong, closing the match efficiently. The victory by Danni-elle Townsend and Joseph Wild firmly establishes their status as leading mixed doubles players in Australia.

Hong Kit Wong Stages Thrilling Comeback to Clinch QLD Pickleball Slam Men's Singles Title

Brisbane, Australia – Hong Kit Wong delivered a memorable performance at the PPA Tour Australia: QLD Pickleball Slam + MLPA #4, staging a thrilling comeback to clinch the Pro Men’s Singles 5.0 and Above title. Wong overcame Harrison Brown in a gripping three-game final with scores of 7-11, 11-4, 11-9.

The championship final began with Harrison Brown taking an early lead, expertly controlling the rallies and pressuring Wong to secure the first game 11-7. This early setback tested Wong’s resolve, but he quickly demonstrated his ability to adapt his strategy. In the second game, Hong Kit Wong made crucial adjustments, shifting the momentum decisively in his favour. He dominated the game with impressive precision and power, winning 11-4 and forcing a deciding third game. The crowd was captivated as Wong’s revitalised play transformed the match into a true battle of wills.

The final game was a nail-biting affair, with both players vying for the championship. Wong maintained his focus and composure under pressure, delivering key shots at critical points to edge out Brown with an 11-9 victory, sealing the QLD Pickleball Slam title. His ability to rebound after losing the first game underscored the importance of adaptability in high-stakes matches. Meanwhile, the bronze medal match concluded with an unexpected turn as Joseph Wild withdrew from the competition. As a result, Louis Laville was awarded the bronze medal by default. Hong Kit Wong’s thrilling comeback victory reinforces his standing as a top men’s singles player in Australia.

Wong and Kim Crowned Unstoppable QLD Pickleball Slam Men's Doubles Champions

Brisbane, Australia – Hong Kit Wong and Eunggwon Kim solidified their status as a top men’s doubles team, dominating the PPA Tour Australia: QLD Pickleball Slam + MLPA #4 to win the Pro Men’s Doubles 5.0 and Above title. The formidable pair defeated Joseph Wild and George Wall in the final with a convincing 11-7, 11-7 scoreline.

From the outset, Wong and Kim displayed exceptional control and synergy on the court. In the first game, they adeptly controlled the net and executed accurate shots, maintaining consistent pressure that allowed them to secure an 11-7 victory. The second game mirrored the first, as Wong and Kim continued their relentless performance. They maintained their strategic pressure on Wild and Wall, demonstrating unwavering focus and skill to clinch the game with another 11-7 score, thereby sealing their championship title. Their ability to replicate their dominant performance across both games underscored their consistent high level of play.

In the bronze medal match, Santhosh Narayanan and Purple Jesus Manthou delivered a strong performance to secure third place. They overcame Prycen Haas and Lucas Pascoe with scores of 11-5, 11-9. Narayanan and Manthou quickly took control in the first game through consistent rallies and smart positioning, winning 11-5. Although Haas and Pascoe attempted to mount a comeback in the second game, Narayanan and Manthou maintained their focus and closed out the match 11-9, claiming the bronze. The comprehensive victory by Hong Kit Wong and Eunggwon Kim firmly confirms their position as leading men’s doubles players in Australia.