Michigan State Athletics: A Night to Remember for Women's Tennis
EAST LANSING, Mich. – In a stunning display of grit and determination, Michigan State women’s tennis pulled off an impressive 4-2 victory over the No. 44-ranked Northwestern Wildcats last Friday evening. This triumphant win not only showcased the Spartans’ competitive spirit but also honored their beloved senior, Liisa Vehvilainen, in an unforgettable tribute.
Honoring a Spartan Legend: Liisa Vehvilainen
Before the match even began, the atmosphere was electric. The sounds of Finland’s National Anthem filled the air as MSU celebrated its only senior, Liisa Vehvilainen. This pre-match ceremony was just the first act in what would become a memorable night. Following the anthem, the Spartans held a special Senior Celebration, presented by HAP, where Vehvilainen was lauded for her contributions to the program. Coach Kim Bruno eloquently stated, "Liisa's dedication and talent have been the cornerstone of the Spartan women's tennis program. Her leadership and unwavering spirit inspire us all."
A Striking Comeback: The Match Unfolds
The Spartans kicked off the match with determination, bouncing back from a shaky start in doubles play. After losing the No. 3 doubles match 6-1, the pressure was on. It was then that the dynamic duo of Issey Purser and Oriana Parkins-Godwin at No. 2 doubles, along with an electrifying performance from Ellie Blackford and Vehvilainen at No. 1 doubles, sealed the doubles point in intense tie-breaks, both winning 7-6 (8-6).
With the momentum on their side, the Spartans turned their attention to singles play, ready to clinch the overall victory.
Singles Showdown:
The singles matches brought fierce competition, with the Wildcats refusing to back down. Neena Feldman from Northwestern quickly dispatched Purser at No. 5 singles, establishing an early 1-1 tie. But the Green & White were undeterred, as freshman Amara Brahmbhatt rallied to defeat Sydney Pratt at No. 3 singles with a commanding score of 6-2, 6-1.
Even so, Northwestern wasn’t finished yet. As the tension built, Brittany Lau evened the match again with a victory over Blackford at No. 2 singles, pushing the score to 2-2.
Liisa Vehvilainen, determined to leave a lasting legacy in her final match at home, fought back valiantly after losing her first set. In a stunning reversal, she triumphed over Erica Jessel, winning the decisive match 2-6, 6-1, 6-2.
Spartans Secure Victory
To bring the night to a glorious close, Matilde Morais finished strong at No. 4 singles, besting Mika Dagan 6-4, 6-3, thus clinching the match for the Spartans. While the match for redshirt-sophomore Hanna Tsitavets went unfinished, the excitement remained palpable in the air.
What’s Next for the Spartans?
With the victory, Michigan State now boasts an 11-7 overall record and a 3-4 mark in the Big Ten Conference. Conversely, Northwestern drops to 10-9 overall, with an identical conference record.
The Spartans will return to action on Sunday, March 30, taking on No. 48 Illinois at 10 a.m. at the MSU Indoor Tennis Center. Fans are encouraged to attend, as this match will kick-start a thrilling doubleheader with the men’s tennis team facing off against No. 3 Ohio State at 2 p.m.
Stay Connected with Spartan Women’s Tennis
For more updates, insights, and highlights from the Michigan State women's tennis program, be sure to visit MSUSpartans.com and follow them on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.
Match Results Recap
Tennis Match Results:
Northwestern vs. Michigan State
3/28/2025 at East Lansing, Mich. (MSU Indoor Tennis Center)
Final Score: #73 Michigan State 4, #44 Northwestern 2
Singles Competition:
Liisa Vehvilainen (MSU-W) def. Erica Jessel (NWU) 2-6, 6-1, 6-2
Brittany Lau (NWU) def. Ellie Blackford (MSU-W) 6-4, 6-3
Amara Brahmbhatt (MSU-W) def. Sydney Pratt (NWU) 6-2, 6-1
Matilde Morais (MSU-W) def. Mika Dagan Fruchtman (NWU) 6-4, 6-3
Neena Feldman (NWU) def. Issey Purser (MSU-W) 6-1, 6-0
Hanna Tsitavets (MSU-W) vs. Kiley Rabjohns (NWU) 6-1, 4-6, 1-0, unfinished
Doubles Competition:
Liisa Vehvilainen / Ellie Blackford (MSU-W) def. Erica Jessel / Sydney Pratt (NWU) 7-6 (8-6)
Issey Purser / Oriana Parkins-Godwin (MSU-W) def. Neena Feldman / Mika Dagan Fruchtman (NWU) 7-6 (8-6)
Kiley Rabjohns / Brittany Lau (NWU) def. Matilde Morais / Hanna Tsitavets (MSU-W) 6-1
Match Notes:
Northwestern: 10-9; National Ranking #44
Michigan State: 11-7; National Ranking #73
Order of finish: Doubles (3, 2, 1); Singles (5, 3, 2, 1, 4)
With such a dynamic performance and a heartfelt tribute to Liisa Vehvilainen, the night in East Lansing solidified its place in Spartan history. Join us in celebrating the spirit of Michigan State Athletics!
