In an impressive start to their season, the Oklahoma men’s tennis team secured two victories on Sunday, defeating Cornell and UTA without losing a match. The Sooners showcased their strength and depth, earning a 4-1 win over Cornell followed by a dominant 4-0 sweep against UTA. This undefeated opening weekend sets a strong foundation for the team as they prepare for upcoming challenges.

Victory Over Cornell and UTA Highlights Strong Start

In the golden hues of autumn, the University of Oklahoma’s men’s tennis team kicked off their season with a doubleheader that saw them clinch back-to-back victories. The first match of the day pitted the Sooners against Cornell. After securing the doubles point, Oklahoma took an early lead. Junior Luis Alvarez and sophomore Kholo Montsi delivered a decisive 6-2 win against Radu Papoe and Rodrigo Fernandes. Following this, Asahi Harazaki and freshman Alejandro Melero added another victory, marking Melero’s debut win as a Sooner.

The singles matches were equally competitive. Despite an injury retirement, Montsi claimed a win at the four position, pushing the Sooners ahead. Jordan Hasson and Oscar Lacides contributed crucial points, with Hasson winning 6-4, 6-4, and Lacides clinching the match after a tight tiebreak, winning 7-6(4), 6-3. Although Alvarez faced defeat against No. 23 Papoe, the team’s overall performance was commendable.

The second match against UTA demonstrated Oklahoma’s dominance. The Sooners secured the doubles point again, thanks to wins from Harazaki and Melero, and Alvarez and Montsi. Freshman Orel Kimhi delivered a swift 6-0, 6-0 victory, while Lacides and Alvarez sealed the deal with their respective wins. Matches involving Bruno Nhavene, Montsi, and Vojtech Petr were either stalled or abandoned due to the team’s overwhelming lead.

The Sooners will return to their home courts on Saturday, January 25, for the ITA Kickoff Weekend, where they will face Tulsa in what promises to be an exciting matchup.

From a spectator's perspective, this opening weekend has highlighted the team's resilience and strategic prowess. The Sooners’ ability to secure quick and decisive wins bodes well for their future matches. Fans can look forward to witnessing more thrilling performances as the season progresses. The team’s cohesive play and individual brilliance make them a formidable force in collegiate tennis.