First-time partners Viktor Berg & Hamed Anvari upset the top two seeds in the semifinals and final of the $25,000 Squash Doubles Association (SDA) St. Louis Open to win their maiden title at the Racquet Club of St. Louis.
The champions endured a grueling opening match in which the champions recovered from losing the first two games against Matt Domenick & William Hartigan 10-15, 13-15, 15-8, 15-2, 15-13.
World No. 17 Berg & world No. 24 Anvari then surprised the St. Louis crowds and tournament favorites alike in the semifinals, advancing to the final without dropping a game against top-seeded world No. 4 Manek Mathur & world No. 3 Yvain Badan 15-12, 15-13, 15-14.
The four seeds found themselves up against another pair of Trinity alums in the form of second-seeded Mike Ferreira & Jonny Smith in the final. Aided by what appeared to be an injured Smith, Berg & Anvari captured their first title in their first tournament together in a three-game final 15-10, 15-10, 15-11.
Despite similar playing styles, both Berg & Anvari were excited by their first outing together. “This was my first time playing with Viktor, and I wasn’t sure what to expect because we are both shooters,” Anvari said. “I have always enjoyed his attitude and energy on court and I think we jelled well together. Hopefully he will play a few more events with me after this. I have always enjoyed coming to St. Louis. The Racquet club and its membership treat us so well. It’s great how keen the guys are for doubles squash and it was definitely a thrill for me to beat the top two seeds in front of their packed house. Again a thank you to the to the racquet club of St. Louis for hosting such a great event.”
Match replays are available on YouTube including the final below:
