Duke Women’s Tennis Team Wraps Up a Successful Season
The Duke women’s tennis team had a fantastic season, finishing at No. 14 in the national rankings. With a strong overall record of 20 wins and 8 losses, they made it to the NCAA Super Regionals, showcasing their talent and teamwork.
Standout Players
Three players earned spots in the singles rankings. Sophomore Irina Balus finished the season ranked No. 9. She achieved an impressive 22-9 record, including 17 wins in dual matches. Balus also made it to the round of 16 in the NCAA Singles Championship, marking her as an All-American for the second consecutive year. Notably, she defeated ranked opponents ranked No. 12 and No. 2.
Aspen Schuman, a freshman who joined in January, quickly made her mark with a 16-5 record and a 10-1 mark in the ACC. She also claimed five victories against ranked opponents. Her performance included several clutch wins, proving her value to the team right from the start.
Sophomore Liv Hovde also shone, recording 15 singles wins, including four against ranked competitors. She tied for the most match-clinching wins on the team, demonstrating her reliability under pressure.
Doubles Achievements
In doubles, Duke had notable performances from multiple teams. The duo of Shavit Kimchi and Hovde finished with a commendable 12-7 record, including a victory over Ohio State’s 13th-ranked pair. Eleana Yu and Claire An also enjoyed success, finishing their doubles campaign with a 13-9 record and a notable win against Tennessee in the NCAA Tournament.
Historical Context
Duke’s ranking is a testament to the program’s strength. Under Coach Ashworth, the team has consistently ranked in the top 15 in 26 out of the last 30 years. This sustained success highlights the program’s dedication to excellence.
Looking Forward
As the Blue Devils reflect on this season, there’s excitement about the future. With a mix of experienced players and fresh talent, the team aims to build on this year’s achievements. The coaching staff and players are excited to prepare for the upcoming season and continue the legacy of Duke women’s tennis.
For more updates on the team’s journey, follow them on social media platforms.
