UCLA Men’s Tennis Triumphs Over Michigan to Secure Big Ten Semifinals Spot
COLUMBUS, Ohio – In a thrilling showdown at the Ty Tucker Tennis Center, the second-seeded UCLA Bruins captured a decisive victory against the seventh-seeded Michigan Wolverines, clinching their spot in the Big Ten Semifinals. This marked the Bruins’ inaugural appearance in the Big Ten Men’s Tennis Tournament, and they did not disappoint, concluding the match with a 4-1 scoreline.
Stellar Performances Propel UCLA Forward
The Bruins’ success can be attributed to standout performances from key players. Giacomo Revelli, who delivered a clinching victory, showcased remarkable skill and resilience—capping off a personally successful day with two individual wins. Alongside Revelli, both Kaylan Bigun and Spencer Johnson also triumphed in their singles matches, further solidifying the Bruins’ dominance after clinching the doubles point.
Singles Success
UCLA’s momentum began with a commanding showing in doubles play. Revelli teamed up with Alexander Hoogmartens to secure a crucial 6-3 win over Michigan’s Will Cooksey and Patorn Hanchaikul on Court 1. On Court 3, the dynamic duo of Gianluca Ballotta and Emon van Loben Sels set the tone early by defeating Alex Cairo and Nicholas Steiglehner with an impressive 6-2 finish.
In singles, UCLA swiftly seized control, winning four first sets. Notably, Spencer Johnson bounced back with a commanding 6-1, 6-1 victory over Cairo, marking his first triumph since January 26.
Michigan’s Fight Falls Short
Despite the Wolverines’ valiant efforts, including a win by Bjorn Swenson against van Loben Sels with a score of 6-4, 6-4, they struggled to close the gap. Revelli ultimately sealed the Bruins’ victory by defeating Mert Oral 6-4, 6-3, marking not just a personal victory, but also a pivotal moment for UCLA as they advance in the tournament.
Upcoming Match: The Road Ahead
With this impressive performance, UCLA now sets its sights on the Big Ten Semifinals, where they will meet either the No. 3 seed Michigan State or the No. 6 seed USC. Fans can catch the action live on B1G+ at 11 a.m. PT on Saturday.
Match Overview
Match Results
UCLA vs. Michigan
Date: April 25, 2025
Location: Ty Tucker Tennis Center, Columbus, OH
Final Score: UCLA 4, Michigan 1
Singles Competition:
- Rudy Quan (UCLA) vs. Will Cooksey (MICH) – 6-3, 5-6, unfinished
- Bjorn Swenson (MICH) def. Emon van Loben Sels (UCLA) – 6-4, 6-4
- Kaylan Bigun (UCLA) def. Patorn Hanchaikul (MICH) – 6-3, 6-1
- Alexander Hoogmartens (UCLA) vs. Nicholas Steiglehner (MICH) – 2-6, 6-3, 2-2, unfinished
- Spencer Johnson (UCLA) def. Alex Cairo (MICH) – 6-1, 6-1
- Giacomo Revelli (UCLA) def. Mert Oral (MICH) – 6-4, 6-3
Doubles Competition:
- Revelli/Hoogmartens (UCLA) def. Cooksey/Hanchaikul (MICH) – 6-3
- Johnson/Tripathi (UCLA) vs. Oral/Swenson (MICH) – 4-4, unfinished
- Ballotta/van Loben Sels (UCLA) def. Cairo/Steiglehner (MICH) – 6-2
Conclusion
With their sights set on further glory, the UCLA men’s tennis team is primed for a strong performance as they move deeper into the Big Ten Tournament. As the excitement builds, fans and supporters alike are eager to see if the Bruins can continue their winning streak and bring home the championship. Stay tuned for what promises to be an exhilarating weekend of collegiate tennis!
