Recapping the Success of the Carvana Mesa Cup on the PPA Tour

The Carvana Mesa Cup on the PPA Tour proved to be a memorable spectacle, with surprises and impressive performances that captivated the audience. The event, held under near-perfect weather conditions, brought a breath of fresh air to the circuit, with matches that kept spectators on the edge of their seats.

Throughout the tournament, we witnessed surprising victories and dominant performances. This article explores the highlights of the Carvana Mesa Cup, including the unexpected triumphs of Anna Bright and Hayden Patriquin, and the brilliant comeback of Anna Leigh Waters.

Anna Bright and Hayden Patriquin Make History

Anna Bright and Hayden Patriquin achieved a historic victory by defeating Anna Leigh Waters and Ben Johns. This was the first time the pair had managed to beat their opponents, ending a 321-day winning streak by Ben and Anna Leigh.

The match ended in three games with scores of 11-8, 11-9, and 11-3. This victory marked the fourth time Anna Bright has defeated Anna Leigh and Ben, each time with a different partner.

From the start, Hayden and Anna delivered a flawless performance, while their opponents seemed a little off-beat. The victory was an exciting moment for the fans and a turning point in the PPA Tour.

The Shine of Anna Leigh Waters

Despite an initial setback, Anna Leigh Waters recovered spectacularly, winning gold medals in both women's singles and doubles. Her partner, Anna Bright, also shone in the competition.

Waters and Bright were dominant in their matches, winning by impressive margins. In doubles, they faced Jorja Johnson and Hurricane Tyra Black in the final, winning 11-1, 13-11, 11-7.

In singles, Waters continued to demonstrate her dominance with an overwhelming scoring average, culminating in a final victory against Kate Fahey, with scores of 11-3 and 11-1.

The rise of Gabe Tardio and Ben Johns in Men's Doubles

Gabe Tardio and Ben Johns maintained their winning streak, taking the gold medal at the Carvana Mesa Cup. The pair, who overcame difficulties in the early stages, showed resilience and skill in turning around tough matches.

On their way to the gold, they faced Jonathan Truong and Wyatt Stone, as well as a slow start in the final against Hayden Patriquin and Christian Alshon. However, they recovered to win the next three matches.

The debate over the "big four" in men's doubles continues, but Gabe and Ben are increasingly emerging as the pair to beat.

Chris Haworth: The New Singles Contender

Chris Haworth emerged as a new contender in singles, defeating Ben Johns in the final without losing a single match throughout the tournament. His net presence and precise shots were key to his success.

Haworth, currently ranked third, is aiming for the top spot, accumulating valuable points after signing with PPA in the second half of 2025.

With solid and consistent performances, he is ready to challenge the current leaders, Federico Staksrud and Hunter Johnson, who are focused on maintaining their positions.

Surprises and Highlights of the Mesa Cup

Matthew Barlow was one of the tournament's biggest surprises, coming through the qualifiers to reach the semifinals. Despite not being under contract with UPA, Barlow demonstrated talent and determination.

He defeated renowned opponents, including Hunter Johnson, before falling to Chris Haworth in the semifinals and Christian Alshon in the bronze medal match.