
Australian star Evans stuns Staksrud in three games
Tom Evans pulled off what might go down as the upset of the week at the Proton Tucson Open, taking down top-seeded Federico Staksrud 11-2, 5-11, 11-8 in the Round of 32.
One of the keys for the No. 37 seed was his serve placement. He mixed up where in the court he hit his serves throughout the match, which forced several uncharacteristic return errors that plagued Staksrud in the first and third games.
ADVERTISEMENT
“It’s a great feeling,” Evans said of the win. “He’s the best player for a reason, so it’s always great to get a win over a top guy like that. I played him a few months ago and learned some things, so my strategy was just to try and dip the ball a little more at his feet.”
This was Staksrud’s first match since signing a landmark deal with adidas Pickleball a few weeks ago after a two-year stint with JOOLA, and there were times where the Argentinian seemed frustrated with his play as he tried to adjust to his new paddle.
This is a marquee result for Evans, who signed an exclusive contract with the United Pickleball Association last week after establishing himself as one of the top players in Australia.
He’ll look to maintain his impressive form when he faces No. 15 seed Eric Roddy for a spot in the quarterfinals.
Related articles

Best dressed at the Pickleball Central Indoor National Championships
The temperatures were low in Lakeville, but the style was sizzling.
20 hours ago
-Victoria Radnothy

The pickleball action was hot in cold Minneapolis
There were a number of big stories from the tournament.
1 day ago
-Jim Kloss

Late run lifts Daescu, Tardio over Patriquin, Alshon in five-game epic
The top seeds in men's doubles delivered an instant classic in the final match of the weekend at Life Time Lakeville.
1 day ago
-Will Daughton

Todd battles past Jansen for women’s singles gold, announces plans to step away from singles
After coming up just a few points short in 2024 in Minnesota, Parris Todd struck gold in women's singles in 2026.
1 day ago
-Will Daughton