first game 11-8, stormed back to win game two in easy fashion, 11-4, setting up a critical third game for the gold.
A year ago, Munro took home the doubles title when teamed with Will Howells. The pair they defeated that day: Lange and Manthou. Game three this year went to Munro and Livornese, 11-6.
The energetic Munro first picked up a pickleball paddle at the age of 10 after an injury sidelined him from his first love— baseball.“ This tournament is amazing. Nationals does a lot of things right. I love this event and the move to San Diego was great,” said Munro.
One of the more formidable pairs in women’ s doubles is the team of Fudge and Braverman. The defending champions made easy work of their foes last year in Mesa, but this year in the finals they ran into legendary player and Hall of Famer Simone Jardim who was playing with Christine Maddox.
After getting out on top early and winning the first game 11-3, Fudge and Braverman dropped their very first of the event 11-7 in the second. But their poise and steady play prevailed in the third game 11-3 for the win.
“ Barnes Tennis Center did an incredible job. This was a perfect day to finish on with a high note. The weather, fans, energy level... It was really special,” said Fudge.
Newport Beach native Braverman agreed:“ I feel right at home here on the West Coast. This is the biggest event of the year for us, and I look forward to it all year long.”
On the Champions side of the draw— for players 50 years of age and older— in Pro Mixed Doubles, the team of Lisa Alipaz and Marcello Paiva Jardim defeated Karin Ptaszek-Kochis and Youssef Bouzidi 11-9, 4-11, 11-5.( You may recognize Marcello’ s last name. He’ s the brother of Simone, but despite
Lee Whitwell( left) and Jennifer Dawson( Pro Women ' s Doubles gold medal winners).
Marcello Paiva Jardim and Lisa Alipaz( Pro Mixed Doubles gold medal winners).
32 TO SUBSCRIBE, CALL 412.914.8294 OR GO TO PICKLEBALLMAGAZINE. COM