You Can't Script This Stuff

Hey guys, it’s Jack.

Before we dive into all things US Open, I want to give a quick shoutout to my longtime paddle partner, ProXR Pickleball. I’ve been with them for a while now, and I’m currently using the newly re-released PROTOHYPE paddles (XIX & XXI). They’ve been feeling crisp, controlled, and ready for big moments. Huge thanks to the ProXR team for continuing to back me and push the sport forward.

Code “MUNRO10” for $10 off!

April 26th through May 3rd marked one of the biggest weeks of my pickleball career and honestly, one of the most meaningful.

The US Open holds deep roots for me. I first played it in 2015 as a junior with Eric Oncins (who’s now a Major League Pickleball pro), and we took home silver. A year later, I teamed up with Wimbledon champ Joanne Russell and won our mixed division. Then I took a detour to chase hoops for a while, because apparently I thought I was headed to the NBA. When I finally made my way back in 2024, I played with Andre Mick and we made a deep run to the semifinals, finishing 4th. But this year? This year was different.

In men's doubles, I partnered with Len Yang for the very first time. Our whole friendship started when he DM’d me on Instagram out of the blue, saying, “Hey, I go to Cornell, but I’m taking a gap year to go all in on pickleball. Any chance you’re looking for a roommate in Austin?” I had never met him, but something told me to take the chance, and I’m glad I did. Not only has Len become one of my closest friends, but his game has seriously leveled up. He’s got the work ethic, the vision, and the fire. We’ve trained and drilled together all year, but the US Open was our first real test as a team. And we didn’t just pass, we took home gold. Seeing Len get his breakout win and knowing I was a part of that moment meant the world. Big things are coming for him.

In mixed doubles, I played with Megan Fudge. She was rock solid all week. From the very first match, she brought the energy and discipline that every team needs. I felt like my ball striking and anticipation were some of the best they’ve ever been, but a huge part of that rhythm came from how well we worked together. Megan kept us steady and focused, and we got better with every round. We found our flow and finished it off with another gold.

I also played in the split age division with Jaime Oncins. For those who don’t know, split age means one partner is under 50 and the other is over 50. Jaime is one of the best senior pros in the game, and it was an honor to share the court with him. Honestly, I didn’t have to do much other than let him cook. He played incredibly well and carried us through the draw without dropping a game.

This year also marked the US Open’s first ever progressive draw, with one round played each day. It stretched from Tuesday through Saturday and made every match feel more intense as the week went on.

I’ve got to give major props to the team behind the US Open. Every year, it gets better with bigger crowds, cleaner setups, stronger sponsors, and a Center Court that feels like a pro stadium. The tournament remains independently run, and it shows. Big thanks to Nannette, my host and the powerhouse behind media and marketing. This event wouldn’t be what it is without her.

That’s a Wrap

This weekend wasn’t just about medals. It was about proving something to myself. I can win with anyone. Chemistry with your regular partner is a strength, sure, but adaptability is power. This weekend proved I’ve got both.

See y’all next year in Naples.

— Jack Munro