Pro Nationals Preview: The Race for #1 Tightens in Missoula
The International Racquetball Tour heads to Missoula, Montana for one of the most important stops of the season — Pro Nationals. With just two events remaining on the calendar, the race for the World #1 ranking is reaching its final stages, and every match in Missoula carries major implications.
Hosted at a beautiful five-court facility, Pro Nationals sets the stage for a high-stakes weekend of professional racquetball, where momentum, pressure, and performance will all play a role in determining how the season finishes.
The Race for World #1
The storyline at the top of the tour is clear.
Kane Waselenchuk and Conrrado Moscoso remain locked in the battle for the #1 ranking, and the path forward is now defined.
If both players continue their current form and reach the finals at the remaining two events, the outcome becomes simple — if Kane wins one of the final two stops, he will secure the World #1 ranking for the 16th time in his career. If Moscoso wins both remaining events, he will claim the #1 spot for the first time.
There is no margin for error.
Every round, every match, and every point now carries weight as the season approaches its conclusion.
Will we see a changing of the guard, or will the king remain at the top?
Key Matchups to Watch
Beyond the race for #1, the draw in Missoula is filled with compelling early-round matchups that could shape the tournament.
Erick Trujillo vs Andres Acuna
Former Top 10 player Erick Trujillo continues his return from injury and will be tested early against #3 ranked Andres Acuna. Trujillo has shown flashes of his previous form, and this matchup could signal whether he is ready to make a deep run again on tour.
Diego Gastelum vs Rodrigo Montoya
Diego Gastelum has quietly been one of the toughest outs on tour this season. He has consistently pushed top players to their limits, often forcing tiebreakers with his relentless style of play. While he has yet to break through with a signature win, this could be the tournament where that changes.
Adam Manilla vs Alan Natera
The 8/9 matchup always delivers, and this one is no exception. Adam Manilla and Alan Natera are known for tight battles, long rallies, and matches that often come down to a tiebreaker. This is a must-watch match that could go either way.
A Potential Quarterfinal Rematch
One of the most exciting storylines in the draw is the possibility of a quarterfinal rematch between Jake Bredenbeck and Jhonatan Flores.
The two last met in the finals of the Shamrock Shootout, where Flores captured his first IRT 700 title in a thrilling match. If they meet again in Missoula, it would be a matchup filled with momentum, confidence, and something to prove on both sides.
Two of the hottest players on tour, potentially meeting again with even more at stake.
Watch the Action
Matches begin today at 3:00 PM MST.
Fans can follow the tournament live online, with additional matches and exclusive coverage available through IRT Club. With multiple courts in action and a stacked draw, there will be no shortage of high-level racquetball throughout the weekend.
A Defining Weekend
With the season nearing its end and the race for World #1 still undecided, Pro Nationals represents a defining moment on the IRT calendar.
The pressure is high. The stakes are real. And the outcome of this weekend could shape how the season is remembered.
We’ll see you in Missoula.
