With May-Treanor and Walsh absent, there is no chance of any other team catching Larissa/Juliana, who currently stand with 6,920 points following six gold medals on this year’s Tour. May-Treanor/Walsh could have caught their long-time rivals if they finished first in Phuket and the Brazilian pair finished fifth or lower.

The Brazilian tandem, who also wrapped up the FIVB Beach Volleyball Swatch World Championship in Rome, Italy on June 19, have now won the women’s World Tour title six times (2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2010, 2011), equaling compatriots Adriana Behar and Shelda Bede’s record. Shelda currently holds the title for most World Tour crowns with seven following victory in 2008 with Ana Paula Connolly.

However, they will be looking to add a 43rd gold medal to their tally from November 1 to 6 in Phuket, Thailand where the 2011 World Tour draws to a close.

Women's FIVB Swatch World Tour ranking

Compatriots Emanuel and Alison had claimed the men's FIVB Swatch World Tour title in August.