SiPons Rally, Topple Japan in Marathon Beach Clash

Rondina and Pons showed grit and composure, winning a three-set thriller at the Beach Pro Tour Futures in South Korea.
SiPons Rally, Topple Japan in Marathon Beach Clash

Image Credits:

Alas Pilipinas | Instagram

 

Sisi Rondina and Bernadeth Pons battled from behind to secure a 22–24, 33–31, 17–15 victory over Japan’s Riko Tsujimura and Takemi Nishibori at the Beach Pro Tour Futures in Busan, South Korea.

After dropping a tight first set, the Filipino duo recovered in a marathon second set, saving multiple match points and forcing errors from their opponents, before closing out the decider with clutch finishes.

Rondina and Pons, both 28, reunited earlier this year for international beach volleyball competitions, including SEA Games preparations, and have been competing on the Beach Pro Tour Futures circuit.

The second set, stretching to 33–31, became the decisive moment as SiPons fought off multiple match points, swinging momentum and breaking the Japanese rhythm.

Rondina made key digs and defensive saves, keeping the ball alive during crucial rallies, while Pons dominated at the net, converting opportunities into decisive points. Japan started strong, taking the first set and forcing extended rallies in the second, but could not capitalize on late-match opportunities.

This win strengthens SiPons’ position in the main draw, advancing them to the Round of 12 later the same day.

With momentum on their side, Rondina and Pons now prepare for the elimination rounds, aiming to carry their winning form deeper into the tournament and earn valuable Beach Pro Tour ranking points.