Kate Fahey celebrates a point.
Kate Fahey is through to the Round of 16 in Kansas City. PPA Tour

Fahey stuns No. 2 seed Jansen to make Round of 16

OVERLAND PARK, KS - Kate Fahey wasn’t even in the main draw when Thursday’s action began, but she continues to prove that she deserves a spot going forward.

The No. 31 seed pulled off a massive upset over No. 2 seed Lea Jansen 8-11, 11-9, 11-1 to book her spot in the Round of 16.

“I really just went out there with no pressure and was just trying to get as many points as I could, so I’m really happy with myself,” she said of the effort.

Fahey was especially impressive on the forehand wing, finding angled winners even when Jansen hit returns and approach shots through the middle of the court.

 

The former University of Michigan tennis standout doesn’t have a ton of experience competing on the PPA Tour, but she’s been making a name for herself in Major League Pickleball as a member of the St. Louis Shock.

She says that MLP competition has helped her to remain calm in tight moments.

“It just makes you tough in those really tense situations, especially in DreamBreakers,” she shared. “I’m grateful for that opportunity, and it’s definitely helped me a lot out here on the PPA Tour, too.”

Fahey will take on No. 17 seed Allyce Jones with a spot in the quarterfinals on the line.