The dynamic duo of April Ross and Alix Klineman showcased their incredible skills and emerged as champions at the FIVB World Tour four-star event in Itapema, Brazil. Their victory catapulted them to the top spot among U.S. women’s beach teams vying for a chance to compete in the 2020 Olympic Games.
A Well-Earned Victory
In a thrilling final match, Klineman and Ross, who were seeded fifth, overcame Canada’s second-seeded pair, Sarah Pavan and Melissa Humana-Paredes, with a score of 25-23, 18-21, 15-10. The level of competition was fierce throughout the tournament, making their gold medal win even more momentous.
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Ross expressed her elation, stating, “It is so amazing to win the tournament. The competition is incredibly tough, and every match is a challenge. To win a gold medal means a lot, especially against such skilled opponents.”
A Steady Climb to the Top
With their triumph, Klineman and Ross not only earned the admiration of fans but also secured $20,000 and 800 points. These points brought their total to 3,240, propelling them ahead of Kerri Walsh Jennings and Brooke Sweat in the race to qualify for the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games. Walsh Jennings and Sweat finished tied for fifth in Itapema, accumulating 3,100 qualifying points. Both teams are currently in the top 10 among all the teams competing for Olympic berths.
Consistency and Determination
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Klineman and Ross displayed their dominance by defeating Pavan and Humana-Paredes for the second time this month. Their previous encounter took place in the final of the AVP event in Huntington Beach, California, where they emerged victorious with a score of 18-21, 21-12, 17-15.
“This victory holds greater significance for us,” Klineman remarked. “We want to send a message and consistently be the best. This match was tough, with a different style of play compared to the last one. It’s always a challenge facing Pavan and Humana-Paredes, and we are grateful we came out on top.”
Impressive Triumphs Along the Way
Klineman and Ross’s journey to victory featured a notable win against the top-seeded Brazilian team of Agatha Bednarczuk and Eduarda “Duda” Lisboa in the quarterfinals. The intense match concluded with a score of 25-27, 21-18, 15-13 in favor of Klineman and Ross, further solidifying their prowess on the sand.
Other Notable Performances
Among the U.S. women’s teams in Itapema, Sara Hughes and Summer Ross finished tied for ninth after a hard-fought battle against Klineman and Ross in the second round. Kelley Larsen and Emily Stockman tied for 17th, while Brittany Hochevar and Carly Wopat tied for 25th.
A Bright Future
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On the men’s side, there were impressive showings from Chase Budinger and Casey Patterson, Tri Bourne and Trevor Crabb, as well as Reid Priddy and Theo Brunner, who all tied for fifth place after reaching the quarterfinals. Ryan Doherty and John Hyden, along with Stafford Slick and Billy Allen, both achieved a respectable tied for 25th position.
Exciting Upcoming Events
The FIVB World Tour continues with the highly anticipated four-star event in Jinjiang, China, from May 22-26. Klineman and Ross, along with other top U.S. teams, will showcase their talents in this prestigious tournament. Additionally, the one-star Boracay Open in the Philippines from May 23-26 will present an opportunity for Lara Dykstra and Cassie House to demonstrate their skills on the international stage.
Coming Soon
Conclusion
April Ross and Alix Klineman’s remarkable victory in Brazil has solidified their position as one of the leading women’s beach volleyball teams in the United States. Their exceptional performance in Itapema has contributed to their ongoing pursuit of qualifying for the 2020 Olympic Games. With their unwavering determination and skill, Ross and Klineman are destined for even greater achievements in the future.
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