Exciting Showdown: Michigan Men’s Tennis Team Ready to Face Off Against Michigan State!
ANN ARBOR, Mich. – As the tension mounts and the stakes rise, the No. 25-ranked University of Michigan men’s tennis team (14-10, 8-4 Big Ten) gears up for a thrilling conclusion to the 2024-25 regular season. This Saturday, April 19, they will clash with in-state rivals Michigan State (14-8, 9-3 Big Ten) in what promises to be a captivating contest at the MSU Indoor Tennis Center, with first serve set for noon.
A Season of Promise and Challenge
Wolverines on the Rise
The Wolverines enter this pivotal match ranked No. 25 in the latest ITA poll, having amassed a commendable 14-10 overall record. With an 8-4 mark in Big Ten play, they currently sit in fourth place among the fierce competition of 14 teams. Notably, the squad showcases impressive talent, with three players making waves in the singles rankings:
- Gavin Young (No. 54)
- Benjamin Kittay (No. 69)
- Will Cooksey (No. 85)
Additionally, Young and Kittay have teamed up to claim 19th place in the doubles rankings, highlighting their prowess on the court.
Spartans Stand Strong
Across the net, Michigan State holds a 14-8 overall record and sits just outside the top 25 at No. 27. The Spartans are currently in third place in the conference with an impressive 9-3 record. They boast a formidable singles lineup featuring four ranked players:
- Ozan Baris (No. 12)
- Aristotelis Thanos (No. 38)
- Matthew Forbes (No. 92)
- Max Sheldon (No. 107)
While Michigan State lacks ranked doubles teams, their singles aces are ready to challenge the Wolverines.
Recent Performance Recap
The Wolverines faced a tough test in their recent trip to Los Angeles, returning with a tough 0-2 record after battling without key players Young and Kittay. A stark 5-0 loss to UCLA on April 11 snapped a promising three-match winning streak, each victory marred by a commanding 4-0 scoreline.
Historical Rivalry: Michigan vs. Michigan State
In the history of their rivalry, the Wolverines have dominated with a 109-19 record against the Spartans. The past two decades have seen Michigan assert its authority with a staggering 27-2 record since 2000, including an unprecedented 23-match winning streak dating back to 2005.
Their recent encounters are equally thrilling; last season, the Wolverines staged a sensational comeback from a 3-1 deficit in the Big Ten Tournament semifinals against Michigan State, stealing victory in a heart-stopping five-hour match that propelled them into the championship showdown. Just one week earlier, Michigan triumphed over the Spartans with a 5-2 victory, further underscoring their ongoing dominance.
Key Players to Watch
Bjorn Swenson’s Winning Streak
In the midst of a remarkable six-match singles win streak, Bjorn Swenson has made a significant impact this season. With a dual play record of 12-8—including an impressive 7-2 in the Big Ten—Swenson’s versatility has seen him compete across multiple positions.
Nicholas Steiglehner’s Match-Winning Ability
Highlighting the Wolverines’ deep talent pool, Nicholas Steiglehner stands out as a match-clincher this spring, leading the charge with four decisive victories against formidable opponents like Tennessee, Harvard, Purdue, and Indiana.
Cooksey’s Dominance
Moreover, Will Cooksey has emerged as the team’s singles leader this season with 20 wins, boasting a 20-9 overall record and a stellar 12-6 in dual matches. Partnered with Alex Cairo, his doubles performance has also been exceptional, as their duo ranks among the winningest teams in the program with a 14-8 record this season.
Conclusion: A Battle to Remember
With pride on the line and the intensity of a heated rivalry, Saturday’s matchup promises to be a thrilling display of athleticism and teamwork. As the Wolverines seek to reclaim their winning ways and the Spartans look to assert their strength in the Big Ten, fans can expect nothing less than an epic showdown. Mark your calendars and prepare to cheer, as Michigan Men’s Tennis strives to secure yet another historic victory against Michigan State!
For more insights on the team and updates, visit the official University of Michigan Athletics page.
