Martinez Vich upsets World No. 1 Johns in men’s singles
PHOENIX, AZ – Eighth-seeded Jaume Martinez Vich upset Ben Johns in the quarterfinals at the PPA Tour’s Desert Ridge Open on Thursday.
Johns dominated the opening game 11-4, but Martinez Vich battled back with matching 11-5, 11-5 triumphs in the following games to secure the victory.
This marks Martinez Vich’s first career win over Johns. The two had previously played each other five times, and as it turns out, the sixth time was the charm for the Spaniard.
“I came into the match with a little bit of pain and I had no expectations at all. I was just trying to hit as big as I can and try to finish the point earlier,” said Martinez Vich. “I should play like this instead of running, I don’t know what I’ve been doing for the last year.”
That strategy worked out in his favor this time around.
During timeouts in the action, Martinez Vich was seen courtside using a Theragun and stretching out his legs. Nevertheless, he feels confident going into the semifinals against Jay Devilliers.
“Jay is scared of me. I have his number. I live in his head,” he teased.
Related articles
Breaking down the rules that debuted at the PPA Masters
The new year brings with it some new rules and regulations on the PPA Tour.
16 hours ago
-Will Daughton
PPA Tour referee Mark Thomas departed Masters early to battle wildfires in LA
Thomas is a veteran firefighter in San Jose with 25 years on the job.
18 hours ago
-Matt Cudzinowski
A final look at the Zimmer Biomet Masters powered by Invited
Many spectators said it had the highest level of play ever seen at a pickleball tournament.
1 days ago
-Jim Kloss
Waters secures Triple Crown No. 31 with women’s singles win over Christian
Even after playing eight games of doubles, Anna Leigh Waters looked as fresh as ever in the women's singles final.
2 days ago
-Will Daughton