The No. 2 TCU men’s tennis team kicked off the 2025 season with an impressive 7-0 victory over ACU at the Bayard H. Friedman Tennis Center. Fresh faces Albert Pedrico, Roger Pascual, and Filip Apltauer shone in their debut matches, contributing significantly to the team's success. Coach David Roditi expressed his excitement as the Frogs prepare for their next challenge against No. 17 Stanford.

Unstoppable Momentum: TCU Dominates Opening Match, Eyes Stanford

A New Chapter Begins

The start of a new year brings fresh beginnings, and the TCU men’s tennis team made a powerful statement by sweeping ACU in their opening match. The Frogs have been eagerly anticipating this moment, having prepared diligently for months. With a strong performance both in singles and doubles, the team demonstrated their readiness for the competitive season ahead.Coach David Roditi emphasized the significance of the first match, noting that it sets the tone for the entire season. "We've been waiting for this moment," he remarked. "It's crucial to establish our dominance early on." The indoor courts at the Bayard H. Friedman Tennis Center have proven to be a fortress for TCU, boasting a remarkable record since 2018. This home advantage played a pivotal role in securing the decisive win.

Rising Stars Make Their Mark

Among the standout performers were newcomers Albert Pedrico, Roger Pascual, and Filip Apltauer. These talented athletes wasted no time making their presence felt, each delivering stellar performances that earned them their first victories in TCU colors. Pedrico and Pascual, in particular, showcased their versatility by going 2-0 on the day.Pedrico's debut was nothing short of spectacular. He claimed a dominant 6-0, 6-2 victory over Merse Deli, marking the first dual win of his career. His aggressive playstyle and precise shots left little room for error, setting a high standard for the rest of the season. Pascual followed suit with a commanding performance of his own, defeating Tomas Tischner in two sets, both with scores of 6-2.Apltauer also made a significant impact, clinching a straight-set win over Dennis Dutine with scores of 6-1, 6-3. Although his doubles match remained unfinished due to TCU securing the doubles point, his singles performance underscored his potential as a key player for the team.

Doubles Dominance Secures Early Advantage

The Frogs' doubles lineup proved to be a formidable force, securing the doubles point early in the match. Duncan Chan and Pedrico took down Merse Deli and Daniel Morozov with a score of 6-2, setting the stage for further victories. Kaj Quirijns and Pascual sealed the deal with a 6-3 win over Ethan Scribner and Alejandro Verdasco, cementing TCU's lead.Chan's partnership with Pedrico was particularly noteworthy, as they maintained consistent pressure throughout the match. Their ability to read each other's movements and anticipate their opponent's strategies resulted in a seamless performance. Quirijns and Pascual complemented this effort with their own brand of teamwork, showcasing the depth and cohesion of the TCU squad.

Singles Success Continues the Winning Streak

The momentum from doubles carried over into singles play, where TCU continued to dominate. Duncan Chan, ranked No. 74, secured a quick victory over Daniel Morozov with scores of 6-1, 6-3. His precision and strategic play highlighted his experience and skill level.Julian Alonso faced a more challenging match but ultimately prevailed with a gritty comeback. Trailing 3-0 in the first set, Alonso fought back to win 6-1. Despite falling behind again in the second set, he rallied to secure a hard-fought 7-5 victory. Alonso's resilience exemplified the team's determination and ability to overcome adversity.Kaj Quirijns rounded out the singles wins with a decisive 6-2, 6-0 triumph over Ethan Scribner. His performance reflected the overall strength of the TCU roster, leaving no doubt about the team's capabilities.

Looking Ahead to Stanford

With the opening match firmly in the rearview mirror, TCU now turns its attention to No. 17 Stanford. The Frogs will face the Cardinal on January 17th at 6 p.m. at the Styslinger/Altec Tennis Complex in Dallas. This matchup promises to be a test of endurance and skill, as both teams vie for supremacy.The Frogs' recent history of success on indoor courts, coupled with the outstanding performances of their newcomers, positions them well for the upcoming challenge. As they prepare for the Stanford showdown, the team remains focused and driven, ready to build on their winning start.