The two played an exciting back and forth match in May to decide the national champion with Carson edging out Huczek in a thrilling 11-10 tiebreaker finish. Because of the way they finished in their pools, only one of them will have a chance to move into the finals. The players have mixed emotions about facing a fellow countryman, but both promised that when they step onto the court Saturday they will bring their best game.

“It’s unfortunate that we have to go against each other in the semi’s, but you have to play the cards you’re dealt,” said Huczek. “He’s a tough player, but so is everyone internationally. Everyone elevates their games at the Pan Ams, so I am going to have to play some good ball and take it to him.”

Carson was a little more direct in his response. “When it comes to a tournament, it’s you against everyone,” he said. “My goal is to come here and win games.”

Both players agreed that their match this past May won’t be creeping into their minds on Saturday.

“You have to play in the present and for the future,” Carson explained. “You just have to let those (past matches) go.”

“Houston was Houston. It’s over with,” Huczek said referring to the venue where the U.S. National Singles Championships were held. “This is a completely different tournament, so I’m just going to go out and play each point one at a time.”