Pickleball is rapidly captivating sports enthusiasts across the UK, from bustling courts in London to thriving community clubs in Manchester, Bristol, and Glasgow. With participation growing at an impressive 15% annual rate and more than 10,000 active UK players, highlights from professional matches are becoming a valuable resource for both beginners, who make up around 40% of the market, and advanced players eager to sharpen their skills.

One standout moment from 2024’s Professional Pickleball Association (PPA) Tour was the Men’s Doubles Semi-Finals at the Carvana Mesa Arizona Cup. Gabriel Tardio and Andrei Daescu produced a thrilling performance to defeat Riley Newman and Thomas Wilson 11-9, 11-8, in a contest filled with precision, resilience, and tactical brilliance. This clash not only showcased the intensity of elite pickleball but also provided lessons that UK players can directly apply to their own game.

For players training on courts in Leeds or Southampton, analysing this encounter can highlight the value of shot placement, patience, and adaptability under pressure. A high-quality paddle, such as the Volleyer T700 carbon fibre pickleball paddle, can make a significant difference by adding spin and control to replicate similar shots. Widely regarded as one of the best pickleball paddles in the UK, it is a smart choice for players looking to compete more effectively in 2025.

In this guide, we will break down the match in detail, provide background insights into each of the four players, and extract key lessons UK players can take into practice and competition. From Cardiff to Edinburgh, these strategies will help you translate professional techniques into your local game. We will also explore how this semi-final reflects the evolution of pickleball, the dynamics between top-level doubles teams, and what it means for the UK’s fast-growing pickleball community, including practical tips for adapting to British conditions such as indoor venues and unpredictable weather.

The Carvana Mesa Arizona Cup: Tournament Overview

The Carvana Mesa Arizona Cup, held in Mesa, Arizona in February 2024 as part of the Professional Pickleball Association (PPA) Tour, has quickly established itself as one of the standout events on the professional calendar. Featuring elite players across singles, doubles, and mixed doubles, the tournament drew global attention with its high-stakes matches, surprising upsets, and innovative plays. Among the highlights was the men’s doubles semi-final between Gabriel Tardio and Andrei Daescu against Riley Newman and Thomas Wilson, a match that combined tactical brilliance with relentless energy.

The event showcased pickleball at its highest level, with substantial prize money, ranking points, and a growing spectator base both in-person and online. Records were set for attendance and live-stream views, underlining the sport’s rapid rise in popularity. For UK players, watching these matches on Selkirk TV or through PPA streams provides an excellent opportunity to learn professional strategies, which can then be applied during practice sessions on local courts from Manchester to Edinburgh.

The semi-final itself was a defining moment, with Tardio and Daescu defeating Newman and Wilson 11-9, 11-8. As the #16 seeds, they produced one of the tournament’s biggest upsets, having already beaten higher-ranked teams such as the Johns brothers in earlier rounds. Their victory over the #4 seeds highlighted the importance of resilience, partnership, and strategic shot placement. For UK players, this underdog success story demonstrates how disciplined practice and clear communication can lead to breakthroughs, whether in league matches or national tournaments like the English Championships.

The Carvana Mesa Arizona Cup also reflected how closely the PPA Tour mirrors the structure of professional tennis, with seeded brackets, progressive draws, and a points-based ranking system. This makes the sport particularly relatable for UK tennis converts, many of whom are driving the pickleball boom in Britain. While the sunny Arizona conditions contrast with the damp weather often faced on UK courts, the tactical elements; such as kitchen play, dinks, and spin, translate directly. For players adapting to British conditions, tools like carbon fibre paddles and sweat-resistant grips (see our wet weather tips) can make a significant difference.

Beyond the men’s doubles drama, the tournament featured strong performances in women’s doubles from Anna Leigh Waters and Catherine Parenteau, as well as surprises in singles competition. These storylines added to the prestige of the event and reinforced pickleball’s reputation as a sport of both strategy and athleticism. For UK enthusiasts, the Carvana Mesa Arizona Cup illustrates not only the level of play at the professional tier but also the innovation in equipment, with new paddle technologies aligning with the growing UK market for advanced gear such as carbon fibre pickleball paddles.

Background on Gabriel Tardio

Gabriel Tardio, from Argentina, is one of pickleball’s most exciting rising stars. Beginning his professional journey in 2022, he quickly established himself as a formidable competitor on the PPA Tour, thanks to his athleticism, strategic awareness, and relentless work ethic. At 28 years old, Tardio brings a wealth of racket sport experience, having competed at national level in tennis before switching to pickleball. This background laid the foundation for his tactical approach, sharp court coverage, and ability to read opponents.

Standing at 6’2″, Tardio combines height, reach, and explosive power, which makes him particularly dangerous at the net. His style blends aggressive speed-ups with defensive consistency, creating constant pressure for opponents during long rallies. By 2024, he had already earned multiple PPA medals, including golds in men’s doubles alongside Andrei Daescu, with whom he has developed strong chemistry. Their victory at the Milwaukee Open and upset run at the Carvana Mesa Arizona Cup demonstrated how complementary their styles are: Tardio’s quick hands and mobility balance Daescu’s raw power and imposing presence.

For UK players, Tardio’s international journey from Argentina to the US professional circuit highlights pickleball’s global growth and diversity. His success story encourages players in multicultural clubs across London, Birmingham, and Glasgow to embrace the sport as a pathway for both competition and community. Using equipment that mirrors his strengths, such as a carbon fibre pickleball paddle with enhanced spin potential, can help UK players replicate the topspin drives and controlled dinks that characterise his game (see our spin guide).

Beyond competing, Tardio has also shared his knowledge through coaching and mentoring young players in Argentina, focusing on fundamentals like footwork, positioning, and consistency. These same principles are crucial for UK beginners looking to move from casual play to competitive matches. His career trajectory also underscores pickleball’s accessibility, showing how athletes can transition from tennis into pickleball without requiring years of formal training.

As of 2024, Tardio remains firmly in the top 20 rankings and continues to build momentum with consistent performances on tour. His commitment to practice and adaptability make him a player to watch, not just for fans in the US and Argentina, but also for the growing pickleball community in the UK. His story is a reminder that dedication, smart strategy, and the right mindset can transform potential into podium finishes.

Background on Andrei Daescu

Andrei Daescu, originally from Romania, is one of the most established figures in professional pickleball. A former tennis professional who competed on the ATP Challenger circuit, Daescu transitioned to pickleball in 2016 and quickly made a name for himself with his towering presence and disciplined style of play. At 36 years old and standing 6’7″, his physical attributes give him a clear advantage at the net, where his powerful overheads, sharp volleys, and strategic lobs set him apart from many of his peers.

Over the years, Daescu has accumulated multiple PPA titles and has consistently maintained a top ranking in doubles. His game is built around dominance at the kitchen line, using his wingspan to cut off angles and apply constant pressure. This net-based strategy, combined with patient defence, makes him a formidable partner in doubles. His ability to complement aggressive players like Gabriel Tardio with steadiness and power was on full display at the 2024 Carvana Mesa Arizona Cup, where the pair upset higher-seeded opponents to reach the finals.

For UK players, Daescu’s journey from European tennis to American pickleball is particularly inspiring. It demonstrates how skills from one racket sport can transfer seamlessly into another, and how international experience helps elevate the game. His success resonates with players in Edinburgh and Glasgow, where tennis converts are increasingly turning to pickleball. Using a lightweight but stable paddle can help UK players replicate his quick reactions at the net while maintaining control in fast-paced rallies.

Daescu also brings a strong coaching background, having mentored juniors in Romania before moving into pickleball full-time. He often stresses the importance of mental resilience, especially when facing momentum shifts in long matches. This focus on mindset is highly applicable for UK players competing in unpredictable conditions, whether indoors or on outdoor courts affected by the British weather.

In 2024, Daescu secured several medals, including golds with Tardio, cementing his position as a top 10 doubles player. His dedication to fitness and structured training has been central to his longevity in the sport. UK players looking to follow his example can benefit from drills that emphasise endurance and consistency (see our drills guide).

Daescu’s story is also a testament to perseverance. Before committing fully to pickleball, he balanced his athletic career with professional work outside of sport, showing that passion and dedication can carve a path to success even later in life. His achievements continue to inspire both beginners and advanced players in the UK, proving that with the right blend of strategy, discipline, and adaptability, international success is within reach.

Background on Riley Newman

Riley Newman, originally from Texas, has been a fixture in professional pickleball since 2018 and is widely recognised as one of the sport’s top doubles players. With a strong tennis background from his time at Texas A&M, Newman transitioned seamlessly into pickleball, bringing with him the discipline, footwork, and shot-making skills honed in collegiate competition. At 28 years old, he has already earned more than 20 PPA medals, including multiple golds in men’s and mixed doubles, solidifying his place among the world’s elite.

Newman’s style of play is built on a balance of raw power and consistency. His explosive serves and aggressive drives often put opponents on the back foot, while his ability to sustain long rallies demonstrates his endurance and tactical awareness. Currently ranked inside the global top five, Newman has earned a reputation as a reliable and dynamic partner, with his 2024 season featuring strong results alongside Thomas Wilson. Their chemistry and complementary styles have allowed them to challenge higher-seeded teams in major PPA tournaments.

For UK players, Newman’s journey underscores how transferable skills from college and competitive tennis can be in pickleball. His success serves as inspiration for players in clubs across Southampton, Manchester, and Bristol, many of whom are tennis converts looking for a new challenge. Equipment choice also plays a role in replicating his strengths: a carbon fibre pickleball paddle, with its combination of power and control, can help UK players develop serves and groundstrokes that mirror his aggressive approach.

Beyond his achievements on the court, Newman has contributed significantly to the growth of pickleball by coaching and mentoring young players in the United States. His emphasis on developing fundamentals and building confidence makes him a role model for aspiring athletes worldwide. For UK players, this highlights the importance of community coaching and structured practice sessions, whether in beginner clubs or competitive leagues.

In 2024, Newman continued his run of consistency by medalling at multiple PPA events, often displaying resilience in high-pressure matches. His ability to adapt strategies during games and thrive under pressure offers valuable lessons for UK players seeking to sharpen their mental edge. Newman’s story demonstrates that with commitment, strong partnerships, and the right tactical mindset, players can rise to the top of the global game.

Background on Thomas Wilson

Thomas Wilson, from the United States, has established himself as a reliable and consistent presence on the PPA Tour, particularly in men’s doubles. With a strong tennis background, Wilson made the transition to pickleball with ease, applying his racket skills and tactical awareness to become a respected competitor. Known for his calm on-court demeanour and ability to thrive under pressure, Wilson has earned multiple PPA medals, often alongside his regular partner Riley Newman.

Wilson’s game is defined by consistency and defensive strength. While not always the flashiest player on the court, his ability to neutralise aggressive opponents and extend rallies makes him an invaluable doubles partner. His precision at the kitchen line, coupled with well-placed dinks and timely resets, allows his teammates to play more aggressively, knowing Wilson will hold firm under pressure.

For UK players, Wilson’s journey offers a powerful lesson in how dedication to doubles play can pay off. Many newcomers in clubs across Cardiff, Bristol, and Edinburgh begin their pickleball journey in doubles, where teamwork, communication, and positioning are just as important as power shots. Wilson’s approach demonstrates how a measured, thoughtful style of play can counter opponents who rely heavily on speed and power. Using a spin-focused paddle, such as a carbon fibre model, can help UK players develop controlled shots that mirror his defensive tactics (see our spin guide).

Beyond competition, Wilson is known for his strong practice ethic. His routines emphasise endurance, mental focus, and the ability to maintain energy deep into multi-game matches. This is particularly relevant for UK players, where club tournaments and league play often involve extended sessions. Building stamina through fitness and structured drills is essential for maintaining the same level of consistency that has become Wilson’s hallmark.

As of 2024, Wilson continues to perform strongly on tour, often competing in the latter stages of major tournaments. His partnership with Riley Newman remains one of the most dependable pairings in men’s doubles, with their complementary strengths. Newman’s power and Wilson’s steadiness, making them a threat to any team. For UK players, Wilson’s story is a reminder that success in pickleball is not only about athleticism but also about patience, precision, and partnership.

Breakdown of the Gabriel Tardio & Andrei Daescu vs Riley Newman & Thomas Wilson Match

The men’s doubles semi-final at the Carvana Mesa Arizona Cup in February 2024 was a showcase of strategy, endurance, and composure under pressure. Gabriel Tardio and Andrei Daescu, seeded #16, faced off against the experienced pair of Riley Newman and Thomas Wilson, ranked #4. On paper, Newman and Wilson were favourites, with their strong record and consistent medal finishes on the PPA Tour. However, Tardio and Daescu delivered one of the standout performances of the tournament, securing a straight-game win 11–9, 11–8.

The opening game set the tone for the match. Tardio’s agility and Daescu’s net dominance allowed them to keep Newman and Wilson pinned back, forcing defensive resets and creating opportunities for aggressive put-aways. Despite a late push from Newman’s powerful drives, Tardio and Daescu closed the game with precise kitchen play and sharp angles.

Game two highlighted the chemistry between the underdog pair. Wilson’s consistency kept Newman’s side in contention, but Daescu’s 6’7” reach proved decisive at the net. His overhead smashes and strategic lobs neutralised Newman’s attempts to dictate rallies. Tardio’s speed-ups, combined with well-timed dinks, kept their opponents guessing, and the duo closed out the match 11–8.

For spectators, this semi-final was more than an upset, it was a masterclass in complementary doubles play. Tardio’s quickness on the baseline and Daescu’s dominance at the kitchen created a balance that Newman and Wilson struggled to break. Their ability to manage momentum and adapt to pressure situations showed how partnerships built on trust and contrasting strengths can achieve big results.

Lessons for UK Players

✔ Underdogs Can Win

• Rankings are not destiny. With the right strategy and teamwork, lower-seeded pairs can upset favourites.
• UK takeaway: focus on building chemistry with your doubles partner rather than relying solely on individual skill.

✔ Net Presence is Crucial

• Daescu’s dominance at the kitchen line shifted rallies in their favour.
• UK takeaway: drill volleys and overheads to control exchanges at the net, especially on smaller UK courts where quick reactions matter.

✔ Variety Beats Predictability

• Tardio mixed speed-ups with soft dinks to disrupt Newman and Wilson’s rhythm.
• UK takeaway: practise alternating between power and finesse to keep opponents unsettled.

✔ Defensive Consistency Matters

• Wilson extended rallies with his reliable resets, but eventually the underdogs found ways through.
• UK takeaway: learn to defend under pressure and avoid giving away free points during long exchanges.

✔ Partnership is Key

UK takeaway: identify your team’s strengths and assign roles. For example, one player focusing on net play while the other supports from the baseline.Tardio/Daescu, building chemistry for local tournaments.

Tardio’s mobility and Daescu’s height created a complementary pairing that covered the court effectively.

Key Takeaways & Coaching Tips for UK Players

1. Embrace the Underdog Mentality

• Tardio and Daescu entered as #16 seeds yet defeated the #4 team.
• UK tip: In local leagues or club tournaments, focus on strategy and mindset, not rankings. Upsets happen when you play smart and stay composed.

2. Dominate the Kitchen Line

• Daescu’s 6’7” frame and net presence gave them the edge.
• UK tip: Practise volleys and block drills at the kitchen line. Even without height, positioning and paddle angles can win exchanges.

3. Use Shot Variety to Create Pressure

• Tardio combined speed-ups, drops, and dinks to disrupt rhythm.
• UK tip: Work on mixing shot speeds during rallies, alternate between soft play and power to keep opponents guessing.

4. Build Complementary Partnerships

• The pairing of Tardio’s speed and Daescu’s power was decisive.
• UK tip: Identify your doubles role. If you’re quicker, focus on covering movement; if stronger, dominate at the net. Train together to enhance coordination.

5. Learn from Defence Under Fire

UK tip: Practise transition drills, move from defensive resets to attacking opportunities. This is especially useful on UK’s faster indoor courts.

Newman and Wilson showed great resets but couldn’t turn defence into offence.

FAQs: Tardio & Daescu vs Newman & Wilson

Who won the men’s doubles semi-final at the Carvana Mesa Arizona Cup 2024?

Gabriel Tardio and Andrei Daescu defeated Riley Newman and Thomas Wilson in straight games.

What was the final score?

The match ended 11–9, 11–8 in favour of Tardio and Daescu.

Why was this match significant?

It was a major upset. Tardio and Daescu, seeded #16, overcame the #4 seeds Newman and Wilson, proving how strong chemistry and smart strategy can beat higher-ranked teams.

How long did the match last?

The contest lasted just under an hour, packed with fast-paced rallies, quick hands at the net, and several momentum swings.

What made Tardio and Daescu’s performance stand out?

Their complementary styles. Tardio’s speed and quick reactions with Daescu’s reach and power, dominated key points, especially at the kitchen line.

What can UK players learn from this match?

Underdogs can win with the right game plan. Consistency, positioning, and partnership can overcome raw rankings, a lesson valuable for club players from Manchester to Edinburgh.