Another tournament, another milestone for Anna Leigh Waters. At the Veolia Chicago Cup, the PPA Tour’s first-ever stop in the Chicago area, the 19-year-old secured her 200th career PPA Tour title before completing her record-extending 45th career Triple Crown. Meanwhile, Roscoe Bellamy delivered the biggest upset of Championship Sunday by defeating top-seeded Chris Haworth in men’s singles.
Key Chicago Cup Highlights
- Anna Leigh Waters claimed her 200th career PPA Tour title – a monumental achievement in pickleball history.
- Waters completed her 45th career Triple Crown, showcasing unparalleled versatility across all three major divisions.
- Roscoe Bellamy delivered a stunning upset, defeating top-seed Chris Haworth in the men's singles final.
- The PPA Tour's debut in Chicago proved to be a thrilling event, setting new benchmarks for competition.
Waters' Unstoppable Quest for Greatness Continues
The pickleball world held its breath as Anna Leigh Waters arrived at the Veolia Chicago Cup, just one title shy of an astonishing 200 career PPA Tour victories. After a rare title drought in Las Vegas, the pressure was palpable, but the phenom was ready to respond emphatically.
The Double Century Mark: A Historic Mixed Doubles Win
History was made in mixed doubles. Partnering with the equally legendary Ben Johns, Waters faced the formidable No. 3 seeds, JW and Jorja Johnson. The top-seeded duo showcased their unparalleled synergy, dispatching the Johnsons with an emphatic 11-4, 11-4 victory. This landmark win marked Waters' 200th title and the 66th mixed doubles title for the dominant pair.
Sealing the Triple Crown: Dominance Across Divisions
The journey to her 45th career Triple Crown wasn't without its challenges. In women's doubles, Waters teamed up with Anna Bright. They dropped the opening game 2-11 to Catherine Parenteau and Hurricane Tyra Black but swiftly regrouped, powering through the next two games 11-3, 11-4 to secure the title.
Waters then capped off an extraordinary weekend in women's singles, delivering a decisive 11-1, 11-7 win over Kate Fahey. This performance was a clear statement: Anna Leigh Waters remains the undisputed queen of pickleball, continually rewriting the record books.
Bellamy's Shockwave: Men's Singles Throne Under Threat
While Waters confirmed her status, the men's singles court saw a dramatic shift. Chris Haworth entered Championship Sunday as the overwhelming favorite, fresh off an Arizona Open singles title and a dominant semifinal performance. However, Roscoe Bellamy had other plans.
Dethroning the Favorite: Haworth's Unexpected Fall
The No. 4 seed, Roscoe Bellamy, demonstrated remarkable composure and skill. He took control from the outset, dismantling Haworth in straight games with scores of 11-4, 11-5. Haworth, who usually dominates, struggled to find his rhythm, managing only nine points across both games. This victory stands as the biggest upset of the Veolia Chicago Cup, sending shockwaves through the men's division.
A Wide-Open Race: The New Guard Rises
Bellamy's triumph underscores the increasing unpredictability in men's singles. With Haworth, Federico Staksrud, Hunter Johnson, and now Roscoe Bellamy all making their mark in the early tournaments, the competition for the top spot is intensely fierce and exciting for fans.
Other Chicago Cup Highlights
The Veolia Chicago Cup delivered more action beyond the headlines. Federico Staksrud found redemption, partnering with Hayden Patriquin to claim the men's doubles title. They dominated No. 14 seeds Jaume Martinez Vich and Nico Acevedo with an impressive 11-1, 11-6 victory. Meanwhile, a stunning upset saw Ben Johns and Jack Sock fall in the Round of 32 to Anouar Braham and Bruno Faletto, proving that no favorite is safe on the PPA Tour.
Chicago's Grand Debut: A PPA Tour Success Story
The Veolia Chicago Cup, held from October 5-11 at Life Time North Shore Sport and Racquet, marked a successful first venture for the PPA Tour into the Chicago area. As a PPA Cup-level event, it awarded champions 1,500 crucial ranking points. With a blend of historic achievements and thrilling surprises, the new PPA Tour season is shaping up to be one for the ages.
