Pickleball World Surprises and Controversies: A Recap

Pickleball World Surprises and Controversies: A Recap

Welcome back, folks! Let's dive into the exciting pickleball action and drama from this past week.

Anna Leigh Waters Dominates

Genie Bouchard could have been a strong contender in professional pickleball... if it wasn't for Anna Leigh Waters. Her win streak stretches to 511 days, encompassing 84 matches and 18 tournaments. She's aiming for Ben Johns' record of 166 titles, now just one shy. With uncertainty surrounding Ben’s singles future, Anna might tie or surpass him at Worlds in a few weeks.

Congratulations, Giveaway Winners!

Thanks to everyone who participated in the recent SLAMIT and Transition Zone giveaways. We've already messaged winners, but here’s a shout-out to our lucky recipients!

Men’s Singles Shakeup

The main draw kicked off Tuesday, highlighting shifts in men's singles. I faced Eric Roddy, and though I was 4-4 at the net, Ben Johns' return was a highlight. He beat Rio Newcombe 11-0, 11-7. Blaine Hovenier’s victory over Alex Crum in three games sparks curiosity—perhaps a singles breakthrough is on the horizon for him?

New Mixed Doubles Teams

Mixed doubles excitement unfolds with fresh pairings:

- Rachel and Andrei

- Alix and Federico

- Catherine and Oncins

- Team Tattoo: Tina and Tyson

Just weeks before Worlds’, these new partnerships bring anticipation and speculation. My upcoming video will grade their performances—stay tuned.

Tyra & Christian's Dominance

Tyra and Christian double pickled Ava Ignatowich and Aanik Lohani. Industry experts are left wondering: “Where's the Odoth freight train graphic?”

Sam Querrey’s Performance Check

It’s been a while since we’ve looked at Sam Querrey’s games. Thanks to Pickleball Karen for the clips—any noteworthy pro pickleball moments you catch, send them my way!

Paddle Switch-Ups

Paddle buzz: Zane Ford swapped a Joola for a Six Zero paddle. Meanwhile, Tyler Loong tries a Warping Point paddle, and Roscoe Bellamy picks up a ProXR Jolt—all available at special discounts on my website, znpickleball.com.

Polymarket Now Official Prediction Market

Great news—the PPA and MLP announced Polymarket as the official prediction market, replacing Kalshi’s questionable lines.

Singles and Doubles Upsets

In men’s and women’s singles, Roscoe Bellamy and Lea plowed ahead after thrilling matches. Mixed pair drama played out with Dekel and Jackie battling Allyce and Roscoe, while Fed and Hayden’s showdown against Riley and Noe added spice with some smack talk.

Championship Weekend Highlights

Saturday was electrified with Genie Bouchard’s sensational matches, and in mixed doubles, Gabe and Jessie upset Jorja and JW. Throughout the weekend, new player dynamics and controversial matches kept fans on the edge.

Championship Sunday

Sunday saw Ben and Anna Leigh securing another title, Federico Staksrud defeating Roscoe Bellamy, and epic battles from Gabe and Ben against Christian and Andrei. Don’t overlook Anna Leigh’s historic win streak!

Final Takeaways

New partnerships, Ben Johns' singles future, and tennis player transitions in pickleball are the weekend's hottest topics. Catch Major League Pickleball in Dallas next, and if you enjoyed this recap, subscribe for more!

That's a wrap! Let me know your thoughts and predictions as we head to Dallas for the next big event.

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