Did the SG Pipers Cheetahs Retain Their Title Against Vedanta Leopards?

New Delhi, Aug 16 (NationPress) The climactic showdown of the World Padel League was truly a spectacle - filled with excitement, suspense, and exhilarating rallies. In a match that had fans on the edge of their seats, the SG Pipers Cheetahs managed to defend their championship title, triumphing over the newcomer Vedanta Leopards.

As both teams were locked at 17–17 after three intense sets, the championship was ultimately determined in a heart-pounding super shootout that ventured into sudden death. Under significant pressure, the Cheetahs maintained their composure to clinch victory by the slimmest of margins, marking their legacy in league history with consecutive titles.

The final match commenced with the Cheetahs establishing dominance as Teo Zapata and Fede Mourino delivered a series of powerful smashes to defeat Ignacio Piotto and Javi Mora 6-3. However, in the second set, Tamara Icardo and Marta Ortega of the Leopards rallied back, saving multiple set points before achieving a thrilling 7-5 victory over Sofia Araujo and Claudia Fernandez.

With the championship title on the line in the final set, Leopards’ Jairo Bautista and Sanyo went head-to-head against Victor Ruiz and Maxi Sanchez. The final set commenced with the Cheetahs leading 11-10 overall, with spectacular smashes and captivating rallies leading to a tiebreak. With both teams fiercely contending, the tiebreak swung back and forth, culminating in the Leopards clinching it 7-6, forcing a super shootout. The tension was palpable as both teams exchanged points, but the Cheetahs kept their cool to secure it 10-9 in sudden death, achieving back-to-back World Padel League titles.

After claiming consecutive titles, Aminder Cogi of SG Sports & Entertainment expressed, “Back-to-back titles - how incredible is that! These five days were filled with thrilling padel, and to conclude by defending our crown feels surreal. The team exhibited heart, power, and fearlessness; every smash and every rally showcased why the Cheetahs are a champion side. We roared last season, and this time even louder. This team has cultivated a winning mentality, and we are already eager for the next season.”

Equally impressive was the tenacity of the Vedanta Leopards. In their debut season, the Leopards fought valiantly to reach the final, first overcoming the Eliminator and then stunning the Khan Tigers in the Qualifier. Riding that momentum into the final, they pushed the reigning champions to their limits, refusing to relent and proving themselves as a formidable opponent. Their fearless display, taking the match to a sudden-death shootout, highlighted the spirit of a team destined to become stronger in the future.

Reflecting on his team's performance, Ankit Agarwal, Owner of Vedanta Leopards, remarked, “What an event this was! To join the league this season and reach the finals in our first attempt shows the incredible spirit of this team. The intensity, the rallies, the way the team kept persevering point after point - it’s truly commendable. Although we finished second, the Vedanta Leopards have made a significant impression and will return even hungrier.”

Earlier that day, the SG Pipers Cheetahs easily dispatched the Hubtown Panorama Panthers in the first semi-final, showcasing dominance highlighted by a ruthless 6-0 second set from Claudia Fernandez and Sofia Araujo. The second semi-final saw the fairytale journey of new entrants Vedanta Leopards continue as they shocked the table-toppers Game Changers Lions. The Leopards maintained their composure during critical moments, winning the first two sets 6-3 each and sealing the contest 17-14 overall, despite a late rally from the Lions.

Season 3 of the World Padel League truly elevated the standards, introducing two new teams and featuring 36 of the best international padel players in India. The competitiveness and excitement reached unprecedented heights, with every tie delivering drama and intensity.

Reflecting on this remarkable season, Hemali Sharma, Co-founder of the World Padel League stated, “What an exhilarating week of padel we have just experienced! The atmosphere at the venue, the intensity on the court, and the fans on their feet made this indeed ‘The Greatest Show on Court!’ Congratulations to the SG Pipers Cheetahs for an impressive back-to-back title run, and kudos to the Vedanta Leopards for their fierce fight until the end in their debut season. All teams showcased their best this season, creating a unique experience filled with unbelievable rallies and team spirit! Moments like these illustrate why the World Padel League is more than just matches; it’s a movement. Padel is gaining immense popularity in India, and this marks just the beginning of a journey that will grow bigger, bolder, and louder with each season.”

In the final act, the SG Pipers Cheetahs inscribed their name in history, securing back-to-back titles in a season that will be remembered for its passion, unpredictability, and world-class action.