Bright, Ignatowich power way to Championship Sunday in Utah
ST. GEORGE, UT - Anna Bright and James Ignatowich captured mixed doubles gold at the Selkirk Red Rock Open in 2023, and they’re one match away from a repeat performance in 2024.
The No. 2 seeds ran through the draw on Friday, allowing no more than six points in any game.
One factor that’s certainly contributing to the pair’s success in Utah is Ignatowich’s full recovery from a nagging shoulder injury.
The 23-year-old played in two tournaments earlier in April, but he says he hasn’t felt truly back to winning form until now.
“I think those last two tournaments I wasn’t really myself,” he shared. “I think I came back a little too early, but I feel 100% now, and that’s all that matters.”
Ignatowich was especially sharp in the pair’s semifinal match against Martina Frantova and Andrei Daescu, with his big serve and drive combination making it nearly impossible for his opponents to successfully unwind the stack when returning.
That, combined with consistently smart play from Bright, helped the pair come away with an impressive 11-1, 11-3 victory.
They will take on No. 1 seeds Etta Wright and Ben Johns for the title on Sunday.
Related articles
Collin Johns talks Ben Johns-Quang Duong incident at Masters: 'He was not trying to injure Quang'
The elder Johns brother was a guest on the PicklePod podcast with Zane Navratil and Thomas Shields.
3 days ago
-Matt Cudzinowski
Who are the top 5 male players in pickleball?
We previously talked about the top five women, so now the men get their turn.
3 days ago
-Jim Kloss
Who are the top 5 female players in pickleball?
Find out which ladies made the list.
4 days ago
-Jim Kloss
The Picklr announces ‘Pro Team’ with Bright, Patriquin, and Garnett
“Where pros are made” has never been truer.
7 days ago
-Will Daughton