By Jean Malanum
MANILA – Padel Pilipinas bets LA Cañizares and Joanna Tao Yee Tan pulled off a 7-5, 5-7, 6-4 victory over five-time champions Irina Chernaya of Russia and Tim Brown of Australia to capture mix pro title at the Asia Pacific Padel Tour (APPT) Open held on April 24-27 in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
It was the first title for the Filipino tandem after a runner-up finish at the APPT Manila Open last February.
“This victory is for everyone who believes in us and supports padel back home. We hope this inspires more Filipinos to pick up a racket and join the sport we love,” said Tan on Thursday.
Tan, No. 2 behind Japanese Kotomi Ozawa in the pro rankings, also bagged the silver medal in the women’s category. She and Mariam Yasnmin Garsin lost to Ozawa and Elisabeth Nogueras of Spain, 0-6, 6-7 (2-7).
The other Filipino pair of Princess Jean Naquila and Jed Vallie Rayne Aquino only made it to the quarterfinal in the pro women’s category.
“It feels amazing to win on this stage. We’ve been training hard for moments like this, and we’re grateful to bring this home for the Philippines,” commented Cañizares, who settled for a quarterfinal finish with Qoqo Allian in the pro men’s category.
Padel Pilipinas founder, Senator Pia Cayetano, commended the team’s accomplishments.
“We are incredibly proud of LA and Tao Yee for bringing home the championship and showcasing the world-class talent of Filipino padel athletes. To Tao Yee and Yam for their impressive finals finish, and to the rest of the team for reaching the quarterfinals — your dedication and passion continue to inspire. Mabuhay kayo!” she said.
Last year, Tan and Marian Capadocia won the pro women’s title at the APPT Grand Slam in Singapore.
Padel Pilipinas is recognized by the Philippine Olympic Committee and the Philippine Sports Commission. (PNA)
