The University of Missouri's tennis team had a successful start at the FIU Invitational held in Miami on January 10th. The Tigers secured an impressive doubles victory and four singles wins, setting a positive tone for the tournament. In the doubles matches, the duo of Canete and Roso emerged victorious with a commanding performance. Moving into singles play, Canete continued her strong form while freshmen Octa, Lazar, and Hartel also contributed to the team's success. Despite some tough battles, the Tigers demonstrated resilience and skill throughout the day.

The competition kicked off with doubles action where the Tigers faced off against various opponents. Preseason ranked No. 112 pair Inah Canete and Korina Roso delivered a dominant 6-1 win over their FIU counterparts. However, the other three doubles matchups proved more challenging, with Missouri narrowly missing out on additional victories. The intensity shifted to singles play, where Canete maintained her momentum by defeating Lara Smejkal from Florida Atlantic University in straight sets. Freshmen Gian Octa, Zoe Lazar, and Sarah Hartel also showcased their talents, securing wins for the team. Octa and Lazar clinched their matches without dropping a set, while Hartel fought through a grueling third set to claim her victory.

Senior Sophia McLellan and freshman Korina Roso engaged in hard-fought three-set matches. Roso's encounter was particularly intense, with the final set being decided by just two points in favor of her opponent from Houston. Despite the loss, Roso's determination was evident throughout the match. McLellan also put up a strong fight but ultimately fell short in her three-set battle. These performances highlighted the depth and competitiveness of the Missouri team as they navigated through challenging opposition.

The first day of the FIU Invitational provided a glimpse into the potential of the Missouri Tigers. With a mix of experienced players and promising newcomers, the team displayed both skill and perseverance. The victories in doubles and singles matches not only boosted morale but also set the stage for what promises to be an exciting tournament ahead. The Tigers will look to build on this solid start as they continue their campaign in Miami.