Tom Evans hits a forehand.
Tom Evans is starting off strong in Tucson. PPA Tour

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.

 

“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.