Bright , Duong Outlast Fahey, Patriquin In Mixed Doubles Epic
In a match that could easily go down as one of the most electrifying encounters of the PPA Tour season, Anna Bright and Quang Duong battled their way to a hard-fought 16-14, 5-11, 12-10 victory over the No. 10 seeds Kate Fahey and Hayden Patriquin in the mixed doubles Round of 16 at the Veolia Atlanta Pickleball Championships.
The encounter, lasting over 90 minutes on Humana Championship Court, showcased the resilience and tenacity of the No. 5 seeds, who found themselves staring down the brink of defeat in the opening game. Trailing 4-10, Bright and Duong staged a remarkable comeback, reeling off six consecutive points to level the score at 10-10.
From there, the momentum swung back and forth, with both teams saving multiple game points in a tense sequence that kept the packed crowd on the edge of their seats. Ultimately, it was Bright and Duong who edged through, clinching the opener 16-14 after nearly 40 minutes of grueling exchanges.
Source: Pickleball.com
Fahey And Patriquin Regroup In Game 2
Despite the heartbreaking loss in the opening game, Fahey and Patriquin regrouped quickly. The No. 10 seeds dominated the second game, imposing their will with clinical shot-making and solid net play. They secured the second game 11-5, sending the match into a decider as the crowd settled in for more drama.
But it was Bright and Duong who came out firing in the third. They raced to a 6-1 lead before the teams switched sides, putting themselves in the driver’s seat.
Yet, Fahey and Patriquin weren’t done. The pair clawed their way back to level the score at 9-9, setting the stage for a tense finish. But Bright and Duong held their nerve, executing key shots under pressure to close out the final game 12-10, sealing a thrilling victory that left the audience roaring.
A Battle Between Teammates
The high-stakes clash carried an added layer of intrigue, with three members of the St. Louis Shock competing on opposite sides of the net. Bright, Fahey, and Patriquin are all key players for the Shock, and the familiarity added a psychological edge to the contest.
Bright, the team captain, acknowledged the unique dynamic after the match.
“It was definitely a match that all of us were very excited for,” Bright said. “I was texting with Hayden and Kate last night, talking a little trash this morning too. Even during the match, Hayden would chirp, and we’d smile at each other. But once it got to Game 3, it was all serious.”
Next Up: The Top Seeds
With the win, Bright and Duong advance to the mixed doubles quarterfinals, where they’ll face Anna Leigh Waters and Ben Johns, the tournament’s top-seeded duo.
It’s a formidable challenge, as Waters and Johns have been dominant all season. But if Wednesday’s marathon battle is any indication, Bright and Duong won’t back down without a fight.
Stay tuned as the Veolia Atlanta Pickleball Championships continue to deliver high-stakes action and unforgettable moments.
