Virginia Men’s Tennis: A Heartbreaking 4-3 Loss to TCU in NCAA Quarterfinals
WACO, Texas – In an electrifying showdown at the Hurd Tennis Center, the Virginia men’s tennis team fought valiantly but ultimately fell to the No. 2 seed TCU, 4-3, on May 16, 2025. This defeat marked the end of an incredible season for the Cavaliers (23-8), who demonstrated grit and determination throughout their NCAA journey.
The Dramatic Start: Doubles Duel
The match began with an intense doubles competition that set the tone. TCU (26-3) snatched the early advantage by claiming the doubles point. Freshmen Rafael Jódar and Roy Horovitz showcased their skill, breaking serve to win 6-4 against Duncan Chan and Albert Pedrico on court three. However, TCU countered swiftly, securing a 6-4 victory on the top doubles court.
On court two, junior Mans Dahlberg and sophomore Dylan Dietrich found themselves in a tight spot, trailing 3-0. Yet, they rallied magnificently, forcing a tiebreaker. Unfortunately, TCU sealed the doubles point, winning 7-6 (4) and taking a 1-0 lead.
Singles Surge: Cavaliers Strike Back
As singles play commenced, both teams split the first sets. Dietrich answered the call for Virginia, defeating No. 10 Pedro Vives 6-3, 6-3 on court two, leveling the match. Moments later, Jódar soared to victory over No. 8 Jack Pinnington with a decisive 6-4, 6-3 win, propelling the Cavaliers to a 2-1 lead.
However, TCU quickly retaliated. On court five, Dahlberg fought valiantly, saving two match points, yet fell to Albert Pedrico, 6-3, 6-4. Shortly thereafter, TCU regained the upper hand with another victory on court three, as Keegan Rice battled back but ultimately lost to Lui Maxted 6-4, 7-5.
The Tension Peaks: Courts Four and Six
With the match poised at 3-2 in TCU’s favor, all eyes turned to courts four and six. On court four, graduate student James Hopper earned a hard-fought first set against No. 95 Cooper Woestendick 6-3. Despite dropping the second set, Hopper regained composure to seal a 6-3, 3-6, 6-1 victory, tying the match at three points each.
On court six, freshman Jangjun Kim battled through a gripping contest against Duncan Chan. Despite breaking serve to lead 2-1 in the final set, Chan fought back and clinched victory, finishing the match with a decisive break to close it at 6-4, handing the Horned Frogs their victory.
Coach’s Reflections: A Legacy of Resilience
In the aftermath, head coach Andres Pedroso praised his team’s tenacity: “Congratulations to the TCU Horned Frogs. There’s a reason why they’re the defending champs; they hung tough until the very last point. Our guys fought like absolute warriors, sticking together no matter what happened. This is what our program stands for—carrying on a tradition of resilience.”
Match Insights: A Season to Remember
As the season wraps up, here are key statistics and reflections:
- Virginia entered as the No. 7 seed, continuing a legacy of excellence with their 18th NCAA quarterfinal appearance in 20 championships.
- Rafael Jódar finishes his freshman season with an impressive 19-3 singles record, including four victories against top-10 ranked opponents.
- Dahlberg’s nine-match win streak came to a bittersweet end, marking his first loss since March 23.
- James Hopper leaves a remarkable legacy, finishing his collegiate career with 107 singles wins and 164 career doubles wins.
- Dylan Dietrich wrapped up with a stellar 24-8 singles record.
In the face of adversity, the Virginia men’s tennis team showcased the spirit and dedication that makes college tennis so captivating. As they reflect on this season, the Cavaliers can hold their heads high, knowing they have laid a foundation for future triumphs.
For more details on college tennis and updates on the rankings, visit the ITA website and stay tuned for the next season’s excitement!
