Dynamic Duo Johns and Tardio Secure Inaugural Doubles Title at PPA Texas Open

Ben Johns and Gabe Tardio clinched their initial doubles gold together at the CIBC Texas Open, battling through a grueling five-game final against Staksrud and Alshon. After dominating the first game 11-1, they stumbled, dropping two straight before regrouping to win decisively. The victory marked Johns’ impressive 150th career title and showcased 19-year-old Tardio’s dynamic athleticism. This new partnership might just be getting started.

Ben Johns and Gabe Tardio stormed their way to doubles gold at the CIBC Texas Open, marking their inaugural championship victory as partners. The duo outplayed Staksrud and Alshon in a nail-biting five-game final, prevailing 11-1, 10-12, 7-11, 11-7, 11-4. Not too shabby for a first-time partnership. This win followed their impressive silver medal finish at the Mesa Cup earlier in the season.

The victory wasn’t just another trophy for Johns – it marked his 150th career title. That’s right, 150. The guy’s basically a walking pickleball encyclopedia at this point. But this win was different, featuring his newest partner Tardio, whose athleticism and dynamic playing style proved to be exactly what Johns needed on the court. The 19-year-old from Bolivia brought fresh energy to the partnership. Johns’ 108-match winning streak in singles showcases his dominance across all pickleball formats.

Wind became the unofficial third player in every match, forcing teams to adjust their strategies constantly. Johns and Tardio handled it like pros, especially after dropping those middle games in the final. Their earlier victory against Navratil and Fu showed they meant business, but the final really tested their mettle.

Despite the wind’s constant interference, Johns and Tardio proved their championship caliber by adapting and conquering every challenge thrown their way.

Tardio’s rise in professional pickleball has been impressive, and his partnership with Johns seems like a match made in pickleball heaven. Their playing styles clicked immediately – Tardio’s explosive athleticism complementing Johns’ tactical brilliance. The crowd ate it up, packing the stands and creating an electric atmosphere throughout the tournament.

The new duo didn’t just win; they showed remarkable resilience. After dominating the opening game 11-1, they faced serious pushback from Staksrud and Alshon, dropping the next two games. Lesser teams might have crumbled. Instead, they regrouped and closed out the match with authority.

Looking ahead, Johns and Tardio are set to continue their partnership at upcoming PPA events. Given their success in Texas, despite challenging conditions and tough opposition, they’ve established themselves as a formidable team to watch. Their synergy improved with each match, suggesting this might be just the beginning of a dominant partnership in professional pickleball.