This year’s State Doubles Championships were held at Club d’Adelaide in glorious spring conditions. It was not the largest turn-out we’ve had for this event but it was certainly one of the strongest fields we’ve seen.
The Women’s competition was very competitive. Only one pair, Ha Nguyen & Haejung Jang, made it through the four preliminary rounds undefeated. However, in the end, they fell at the final hurdle and had to settle for a runners-up trophy. Taking the title with a victory in the game that matters most were Melissa Scott & Deb Rodda. Playing together for the first time, their only loss had come against the aforementioned pair earlier in the day. This was Deb’s eighth State Doubles title and brings her level with Selina for the most wins by any player in this competition. In contrast, this Doubles victory was a first for Melissa, whose previous state titles have both been in Singles.
The Open final featured Alexi Alexi & George Lainas pitted against Raja Jamaleddine & Van Nguyen. With the reigning champions (Alexi and Van) lining up on opposite sides of the piste, one of them was going to go back-to-back – but only one. That honour went to the latter, as Raja & Van registered a resounding victory. Raja’s win gave him his fourth SA Open Doubles title, which equals the record number previously held by Dave Ward and last year matched by Alexi.
Congratulations to all the winners, including the consolation divisions. Thanks to the umpires and to Club d’Adelaide for hosting the event.
Download the full report (PDF): Scores-2024-25-State-Doubles.pdf