In 2023, the men’s doubles final in Las Vegas went to five games, and on Sunday, the spotlight turned to the women’s doubles final.
Anna Leigh Waters and Catherine Parenteau triumphed over the No. 2 seeds, Anna Bright and Rachel Rohrabacher, in a thrilling match that ended 10-12, 11-9, 6-11, 11-6, 12-10. Many are calling it one of the best women’s doubles matches in professional pickleball history.
The match showcased incredible skills from both teams, but two standout plays made a significant impact: Rohrabacher’s impressive offensive lobs from the right side and Bright’s aggressive one-handed backhand flick. These key shots helped the No. 2 seeds establish a 2-1 game lead and even a 7-2 advantage in the final game.
However, Waters and Parenteau made a remarkable comeback, leveling the score at 9-7 by effectively targeting their opponents with driving thirds. Bright and Rohrabacher managed to regain their momentum, reaching Championship Point at 10-9.
In the end, though, it was Waters and Parenteau who celebrated with the trophy after an instant classic that lasted nearly two and a half hours.
Parenteau applauded the mental resilience of the 17-year-old Waters.
“She’s so mentally tough, and just looking at her gives me so much confidence in tight moments,” she said. “I’m happy to get the W next to her.”
Sunday’s final marked the third consecutive tournament where the top two seeds faced off for the gold medal. Bright and Rohrabacher claimed victory in Atlanta, while Waters and Parenteau emerged victorious last week in Virginia Beach.
Waters is eager for more exciting matchups like the one on Sunday, as all four players continue to push the boundaries of the sport and redefine what it means to compete at the highest level in pickleball.
“I think it’s great that we’re pushing each other,” she mentioned. “They’re gonna go work on stuff, we’re gonna go work on stuff, and the matches are going to get even better.”
In the bronze medal match, the No. 4 seeds, Lea Jansen and Lucy Kovalova, secured a decisive victory over the No. 8 seeds, Jade and Jackie Kawamoto, with a score of 11-6, 11-6.
