Le Brussels P2 delivered its verdict: clear victory, without appeal,Ari Sánchez et Paula Josemaría face Gemma Triay et Delfi Brea, 6-2, 6-4 the world number 1 set the record straight after three defeats in a row against their big rivals. Surge of pride ou real strong signal ? This success does he really relaunch the debate? on the best pair of the year? Not so sure.
A start to the year dominated by Triay and Brea
Since start of season, Gem et Delphi had taken the ascendant on Ari and Paula. And quite convincingly. Three confrontations, three victories :
- Gijón : 0-6, 6-1, 6-4
- Miami : 2-6, 6-1, 6-4
- Qatar : 6-4, 6-4
Every time, the same scenario: a sluggish startthen a rise in power. More physically strong, tactically correct. An obvious alchemy, a sharp sense of play.
But at Brussels, the trend has reversed. And this is no coincidence.
A biased finale?
Delfi Brea was decreased. Painful ankle, reduced mobility, lucidity at half mast : it was obvious. True to form, she compensated with a maximum intensity. But faced with Ari and Paula, that's not enough. Let's be frank: this was not a “100%” final — and the winners know this very well.
Triay and Brea haven't said their last word
Despite a Brea on one leg, the duo did not sink. Better: they often took the initiative in a match without much rhythm. And if they didn't come so far from winning, it is also because of the recurring air pockets of Sánchez. Able to dominate… then suddenly fade away. Lack of consistency, difficulty in concluding pointsor a stay aggressive without rushing : weak points who weigh at this level. It will be necessary tighten the bolts on the finish side.
Opposite, Triay has found her “boss mode” again : tempo control, net control, playing the game. If his partner comes back in full possession of one's faculties, this pair can clearly change size. They are already very high…but can quickly become unplayable.
The debate remains open
Certainly, Sanchez and Josemaría breathe a little with this victory. But the balance of power remains of a extreme finesse. And given the dynamic, let's not be surprised if Triay and Brea take back control from the next tournament. The season is long, automatisms are creeping in, wounds heal. And the world number 2 are hungry. A “slab” of n°1.
If we had to bet a coin today on the best pair at the end of the year, it would be without hesitation on Triay/Brea. Looking forward to the next part!
