As the Baylor men’s tennis team prepares for an exciting 2025 season, fans can anticipate a series of thrilling matches and significant milestones. Under the guidance of Head Coach Michael Woodson, who is just two wins away from achieving 100 career victories, the Bears will host Lamar at noon and Abilene Christian at 6 p.m. on Sunday at the Hawkins Indoor Tennis Center. This marks the fifth season under Woodson’s leadership, during which the team has seen remarkable success with five NCAA and ITA Indoor tournament appearances. The upcoming schedule promises to be one of the most challenging yet, featuring 19 home matches, postseason games for the Big 12 Championships, and the NCAA Team Championships. Additionally, Baylor will co-host the ITA National Indoor Championship in February.
The team boasts a strong lineup, returning eight players from the previous season, including standout performers like Marko Miladinovic and Devin Badenhorst. Several players have earned high rankings in the ITA individual singles and doubles categories. New additions like Alexandru Chrita, a graduate transfer with professional experience, further strengthen the roster. Fans attending the doubleheader on Sunday will enjoy free perks, such as a team poster, burgers, and coffee, adding to the excitement of the opening day.
Preparation and Enthusiasm for a Challenging Season
The Baylor men’s tennis team is gearing up for what promises to be an intense and competitive season. Head Coach Michael Woodson, who has led the team to significant achievements over the past four years, expresses his excitement about the upcoming challenges. With a record of 98-37 in dual matches and five tournament berths, Woodson is poised to reach the milestone of 100 career victories early in the season. The team will face a rigorous schedule, including 19 home matches and important postseason competitions. Woodson emphasizes the team’s readiness and the players' dedication to continuous improvement, setting the stage for a memorable season.
The Bears will kick off their campaign with a doubleheader at the Hawkins Indoor Tennis Center on Sunday. First, they will take on Lamar at noon, followed by a match against Abilene Christian at 6 p.m. This setup mirrors the successful 2021 season opener, where Baylor emerged victorious in both encounters. The team has a strong history against these opponents, having not lost to Lamar since 1984 and maintaining a dominant 19-3 record against Abilene Christian. Woodson’s enthusiasm for the season is palpable, as he looks forward to leading a team that he believes can overcome any obstacle. Fans are encouraged to join in the excitement, with special treats awaiting them at the matches.
A Strong Roster and High Rankings Fuel Team Confidence
The Baylor men’s tennis team returns a robust roster for the 2025 season, featuring several key players who made significant contributions last year. Among them are Marko Miladinovic, who led the team with a 22-9 record, and Devin Badenhorst, who excelled in his freshman year with a 14-6 dual match record. These players, along with others, bring valuable experience and skills to the court. The team also benefits from the addition of Alexandru Chrita, a 21-year-old graduate transfer with impressive professional credentials, including a career-high ATP singles ranking of 723 and a doubles ranking of 777. Chrita’s background adds depth and versatility to the roster, enhancing the team's overall strength.
In terms of individual and doubles rankings, the Baylor players have secured notable positions in the ITA listings. Badenhorst ranks No. 25 in singles, while Zsombor Velcz and Oskar Brostrom Poulsen hold the No. 54 and No. 58 spots, respectively. The doubles pairings of Miladinovic and Brostrom Poulsen have achieved a top-three ranking, and the duo of Badenhorst and Velcz stands at No. 17. These rankings reflect the team’s talent and potential, providing a solid foundation for success in the upcoming season. As the Bears prepare to face tough competition, their confidence is bolstered by the quality of their roster and the support of enthusiastic fans. The combination of experienced returnees and promising newcomers sets the stage for an outstanding 2025 season.