Cork pair Killian Carroll & Catriona Casey are the 2016 US Nationals Champions after wins over the weekend in Minnesota.
Killian defeated Paul Brady in an epic 11-10 tiebreak, preventing Brady from winning a record equalling 11th title.
Having blitzed the young Cork star in the first 21-6, Brady was in cruise control and looked set to win his 11th US Nationals crown. But Killian fought back to win the second 21-17 before sealing victory in a gripping tiebreak finale, coming from 10-9 down to win 11-10.
“I first watched Paul play against my mentor and coach Tony Healy and the 2006 World Championships as a 13-year-old and I knew at that time that I wanted to beat him,” stated Carroll after his 1st US Nationals crown.
In the Ladies Final, Casey defeated Galways Ciana Ní Churraoin 21-5, 21-0 in a ruthless display to capture the title.
For Ní Churraoin, who rolled an ankle in game one and didn't appear comfortable from then on, it was a maiden appearance in the US Nationals final and she can be very proud of her performances over the weekend.
For Casey it adds to an incredible honours list in the 40x20 court this year adding the US Nationals to the Irish Nationals and All Ireland singles and doubles titles!
After the match, Catriona spoke highly of her opponent and good friend. 'Ciana is a brilliant player and that’s why I couldn’t afford to let up. She will not doubt come back stronger after this. This is a very prestigious title and I’m delighted to have won it.'
Meanwhile in the Mens Open Doubles decider, Galway's Martin Mulkerrins paired up with Minnesota's Andy Nett but fell at the final hurdle to Sean Lenning & Marcus Chavez 21-12, 21-17.
Other Irish Winners:
- Sean Kerr (Tyr) - Mens A
- Kevin Barrett (Carlow) - Mens B
- Gavin Buggy (Wex) - Masters
- Ducksy Walsh (Kilk) - Veteran Masters
- Antoin Fox (Tyr) - Boys 15 & 17