Liberty Men’s Tennis Shines in ITA Atlantic Region Rankings: A Season to Remember
LYNCHBURG, Va. – This year, the Liberty Flames men’s tennis team has made waves, capturing attention in the ITA Atlantic Region Rankings. Ranked No. 4 as a team, Liberty showcased their prowess not just in team standings but through remarkable individual performances.
Key Players Making Waves
Joaquim Almeida: Rising Star
Leading the charge, Joaquim Almeida clinched a prestigious No. 7 singles ranking. Not only did he excel on the court, but he also earned a spot on the CUSA All-Conference Singles first team, partnered with Siwanat Auytayakul, who also made a name for himself with a No. 4 doubles ranking. Almeida’s first season as a Flame has been nothing short of spectacular, coming from a successful stint at VCU.
His 10-14 overall singles record highlights a promising breakout year, capped by a significant victory over Jacksonville State’s Timo De Visser in the CUSA Championship semifinals (6-4, 6-3), demonstrating his ability to deliver in high-pressure situations.
Carl Roothman: Making An Impact
The Flames’ momentum was bolstered by Carl Roothman, who earned the No. 11 singles ranking in the region. Finishing his first season with Liberty, Roothman maintained a solid 15-15 singles record, with his most notable victory coming against No. 39 Yale‘s Zhengqing Ji. His competitive spirit shined particularly in the No. 2 singles position, showcasing his adaptability and skill.
Rodrigo Santiago Arraez: The Late Bloomer
Capping off this triumvirate of talent is Rodrigo Santiago Arraez, who proved to be an unstoppable force in the latter half of the season. Ranked No. 13 in singles, this sophomore concluded the year with an impressive eight-match winning streak. His standout performances earned him the CUSA Men’s Tennis Athlete of the Week award, notably defeating players from No. 70 FAU and No. 24 USF during an awe-inspiring span.
Doubles Excellence
Almeida and Auytayakul also shone in doubles, achieving an impressive 19-9 record for the season, with a 12-4 mark during the spring. Their partnership secured them a No. 4 regional ranking, followed by a No. 51 ITA national ranking, establishing them as the highest-ranked doubles pair in CUSA history.
They made history as the first Liberty athletes to win a match at the NCAA Individual Championship, a testament to their hard work and dedication.
Season Overview
The Flames concluded the season with an 11-13 record, including a commendable performance as runners-up in the 2025 CUSA Men’s Tennis Championship. Their record against Atlantic Region teams stood at 2-1, solidifying their competitive standing.
Looking Ahead
As the Liberty Flames men’s tennis team reflect on this historic season, their commitment to excellence, camaraderie, and continuous improvement will undoubtedly set the stage for future success. With emerging talents like Almeida, Roothman, and Arraez leading the charge, the future looks bright for Liberty tennis.
For more detailed stats and updates, be sure to check the official Liberty Flames Men’s Tennis page.
In summary, the Liberty men’s tennis program has not only made strides in rankings but has ignited passion and enthusiasm for the sport, leaving fans eager for what lies ahead.
