Facing the top-ranked team on the PPA Tour, the Vietnamese duo appeared overwhelmed in the first set. Veteran Minh Quan made several errors, allowing their opponents to take an early lead. Johns and Alshon consistently scored points, ultimately winning the set 11-0.

Ben Johns is currently ranked number one in men's doubles on the PPA Tour. Photo: PPA

Ben Johns is currently ranked number one in men's doubles on the PPA Tour. Photo: PPA

Despite the difficult start, Minh Quan regained his composure and, alongside younger teammate Vinh Hien, gradually took the lead in the second set. Alshon's performance faltered, and Johns' dominance at the net wavered. With the score tied at 9-9, the Vietnamese pair scored two consecutive points, winning the set 11-9 and leveling the match at 1-1.

In the third set, Minh Quan continued to play well, but Vinh Hien showed signs of impatience. During dinking rallies, the 2004-born player attempted to end points quickly by speeding up shots directly at Alshon. However, the American player often reacted well, counterattacking with powerful forehands to score.

The Vietnamese pair briefly led 8-7 late in the set, but their momentum faded. Johns and Alshon's experience allowed them to win 4 consecutive points to close out the match. Johns capitalized on match point with an ATP (around-the-post) shot that Minh Quan couldn't defend.

Winning a set against Johns and Alshon is considered a success for Minh Quan and Vinh Hien. Johns is widely regarded as a contemporary legend in the sport, while Alshon recently surpassed Johns to claim the top spot in the men's singles DUPR rankings. Alshon is also ranked 4th in men's doubles, three spots behind Johns. This was the first time the two rivals, Johns and Alshon, teamed up.

The PPA Tour is expanding its global reach. The Panas Malaysia Cup attracted top players from the US, Australia, China, Vietnam, and other countries.

While some players competed in the Sacramento Vintage Open with wooden paddles, several American PPA stars, including Ben Johns, Kaitlyn Christian, and Christian Alshon, participated in Malaysia to test the strength of Asian pickleball. This event provided a rare opportunity for regional players to compete against dominant American players.

The men's singles champion received 5,000 USD, while the men's doubles champions received 8,000 USD. Ranking points awarded to the champions were 1,500 in the Asian system and 1,000 in the American system.

Later this month, Vietnam will host a PPA Tour Asia event for the first time. The Vietnam Cup will be held at the Tien Son Sports Palace in Da Nang from 30/9 to 4/10. This is a significant milestone, marking the official arrival of one of the world's fastest-growing sports in Vietnam. 120 players will participate, including top international names like Ben Johns, Tyson McGuffin, Christian Alshon, Zane Navratil, Kaitlyn Christian, and Zoey Chao Yi Wang.

Vy Anh