Anna Leigh Waters at North Carolina Cup

Anna Leigh Waters emerged victorious today at the North Carolina Cup, defeating Lea Jansen in a thrilling two-set women’s singles final. The top-seeded Waters overcame Jansen’s determined challenge, winning by 11-9 in both sets.

Waters Dominates Early in Set 1

The first set was a see-saw battle, with both players trading points early. However, Waters pulled ahead with strong serves and aggressive kitchen line play. Anna Leigh Waters had the longest point streak, earning 7 points in a row during ball possession. She took a commanding 8-2 lead before Jansen called a timeout to regroup.

Jansen fought back valiantly, scoring four consecutive points to close the gap to 8-6. Waters held her nerve, securing the next three points to win the first set by 11-9.

Close Contest Continues in Set 2:

The second game was equally intense. Both players showcased their skills and determination. Waters built an early lead (5-2) before Jansen clawed her way back to tie the score at 9-9. After a tense few points, Waters managed to clinch the final two points, winning the second game 11-9 and securing her place in the final match for the championship title on Sunday.

Key Stats:

  • Waters finished the match with a higher win percentage (73.5% compared to Jansen’s 26.5%).
  • The first set saw a dominant serving performance by Waters, with only two points conceded on her serve.
  • The first set featured several long rallies, with Anna Leigh Waters’s streak of seven points being the longest.
  • Both players called timeouts strategically throughout the match, with Waters taking two and Jansen taking two in the first set.

The two have been battling it out in pro women’s singles for six years, and with the changing weather conditions here at Cary Tennis Park, “The wind is an equalizer,” said Waters while talking to pickleballtv after winning the match. 

“Lea is great, she’s super long, tall, and hard to pass. I always know it will be tough when I’m playing her,” said Waters.