Gabe Joseph hitting a pickleball backhand.
Gabe Joseph will look to earn his first title since 2023 on Sunday after an epic semifinal win. PPA Tour

Joseph ends Lenhard’s run to make third final of 2025

Gabe Joseph is into the men’s singles final after a grueling 8-11, 11-4, 14-12 victory over No. 28 seed Rafael Lenhard.

Joseph appeared to be in full control when he got up 10-3 in the deciding game, but Lenhard went on a furious rally to earn match point for himself at 11-10.

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Not deterred, Joseph saved two match points and went on to convert his 11th match point opportunity a few minutes later to put an end to the unforgettable contest.

 

The No. 5 seed spoke about what it took to maintain his composure after seeing his lead disappear late in Game 3.

“I think I had four or five missed return errors, and I don’t think I had made one prior to that. So, it was literally just about the fundamentals, just putting the ball in play and making him hit,” he explained. “That’s never easy when you’re facing a guy like Rafa who covers the court so well because he makes the court feel so small, but I’m just happy to get the job done.”

Joseph will have a chance to secure his first title since 2023 on Sunday when he takes on the winner of the second semifinal featuring No. 4 seed Chris Haworth and No. 9 seed Zane Ford.