The Pan American Cat Libres was an exhilarating showcase of skill, determination, and camaraderie. Held at La Quinta Sports in Asuncion, Paraguay, from November 13–16, 2024, this prestigious event brought together the best amateur padel teams across the Americas. Representing the United States, the US National Team fought valiantly, competing against some of the most formidable teams in the tournament. Below is a detailed breakdown of their remarkable journey.
Men’s Division Highlights
The men’s team showcased incredible talent and grit throughout the tournament, facing powerhouse teams such as Argentina, Brazil, and Uruguay. Aaron Segura and Juan Arraya emerged as one of the strongest pairs winning their division which consisted of the best men’s pairs from each country
Key Matches:
- Group Stage vs. Argentina: Segura and Arraya secured a hard-fought win against Mauro Hillebrand and Marcelo Seidel, with a final score of 6-4, 6-2.
- Semifinals vs. Uruguay: The pair delivered a dramatic comeback, winning 0-6, 6-4, 6-1 to secure their spot in the finals.
- Final vs. Brazil: Segura and Arraya clinched a stunning victory, triumphing 6-4, 6-4, and setting off a jubilant celebration for the players and the entire US team.
Other notable pairs included Marc Winkler and Daniel Fernandez also displayed incredible tenacity, battling through a challenging group stage, before securing a semi-final win over Argentina before losing in the finals to Brazil. Chris Humphreys and Felipe Osses-Konig, also had a strong tournament before falling in the semifinals to Argentina.
Women’s Division Highlights
The women’s team demonstrated resilience and skill, taking on seasoned teams across the Americas. Standout performances came from Andrea Samson and Dhanielly Quevedo, who were undefeated in their group stage with wins over Argentina and Chile, and progressing to the semi-finals.
Key Matches:
- Group Stage vs. Argentina: Samson and Quevedo defeated Carolina Cadaval and Ayelen Gomez in a nail-biting 5-7, 6-4, 6-3 victory.
- Semifinals vs. Mexico: Despite a strong effort, Samson and Quevedo fell to Mexico’s Ana Camberos and Regina Estrada (6-7, 3-6), ending their journey on a high note.
All of the ladies competed their best against tough competition. Laura Robbio and Stephanie Grandio delivered solid performances to secure a victory against Uruguay. Isabelle Martinez and Kari Yerg fought hard for the USA, pushing all three of their matches to a third set but were unable to break through for a victory.
Acknowledgments and Looking Ahead
The USPA extends heartfelt gratitude to all the players, the coaches Jacobo Blanco and Jon Guerra, and the supporters who made this tournament successful. A special thanks to our sponsors, Bullpadel, Chosen Foods, Padel Haus, and Van Eck, whose unwavering support propels the U.S. padel teams to new heights.
As we look ahead to future tournaments, the USPA remains committed to growing the sport at all levels. Congratulations to the entire US National Team for their inspiring performance at the Pan American Cat Libres
Men’s Team
- Aaron Segura
- Juan Arraya
- Christopher Humphreys
- Felipe Osses-Konig
- Marc Winkler
- Daniel Fernandez
- Maurice Russo
- Blaine Willenborg
- Matt Hansen
- Alvaro Baez
- Eduardo Divero
- Ignacio De Elia
- Esteban Vazquez
- Alejandro Ciffoni
- Larry Pascal
- Jorge Noguera
Women’s Team
- Kari Yerg
- Andrea Samson
- Dhanyn Quevedo
- Antonella Santeusanio
- Kristen Davis
- Hannah Clarke
- Gabriella Bongiovanni
- Hafsah Jannah Sani
- Khadeejah Sani
- Carolina Robbio
- Estefania Grandio
- Isabel Martinez
Coaches
- Jon Guerra
- Jacobo Blanco
For the full scoring recap visit the tournament website here.
