NEW YORK — The Columbia University women’s tennis team continued its strong start to the spring season Saturday, delivering a decisive 4-0 victory over Michigan State at the Philip & Cheryl Milstein Family Tennis Center. The win improves Columbia’s record to 5-2 on the year, showcasing their dominance on home court and setting a positive tone as they move forward in the season. This matchup against a Big Ten opponent proved to be a significant test for the Lions and they responded with a commanding performance.
The Lions quickly established control, securing the doubles point with wins from the pairings of Emily Baek and Sophia Wang, and Michelle Li and Amber Yin. The momentum carried into singles play, where Columbia demonstrated its depth and skill. Yin was the first to secure a point, followed by Krishnan, and then Baek clinched the match for Columbia. The team’s ability to convert early leads into decisive victories highlights their strategic play and competitive spirit.
Doubles Dominance Sets the Tone
Columbia’s success began with a strong showing in doubles competition. Baek and Wang defeated Nina Plihal and Issey Purser 6-3 at the No. 3 position, setting an early positive tone. Shortly after, Li and Yin sealed the doubles point with a 6-3 win against Amara Brahmbhatt and Oriana Parkins-Godwin at No. 2. The No. 1 doubles match, featuring Gayathri Krishnan and Sabrina Lin, was left unfinished with the score at 3-4, but the early advantage proved crucial for the Lions.
Singles Sweep Clinches Victory
Carrying the momentum from doubles, Columbia wasted no time extending their lead in singles play. Amber Yin delivered the first singles point, dominating Issey Purser 6-1, 6-2 at the No. 6 position. Gayathri Krishnan followed with a commanding 6-2, 6-3 victory over Amara Brahmbhatt at the No. 1 spot. The decisive moment came when Emily Baek clinched the match with a 6-3, 6-4 win against Matilde Morais at No. 3, securing the 4-0 final score.
Unfinished Matches and Future Outlook
While the match was decided after three completed singles contests, several others remained unfinished. Michelle Li was in a tightly contested battle at No. 4, claiming the first set in a tiebreak before play was halted at 7-6, 1-1. Sophia Wang was trailing 4-6, 3-2 at No. 2, and Margaret Hui split sets at No. 5, trailing in the third when the match concluded. These unfinished contests demonstrate the competitive nature of the overall match and the depth of talent on both teams.
Columbia will return to action on Wednesday, February 25, hosting Fairleigh Dickinson University (FDU) at 1 p.m. At the Philip & Cheryl Milstein Family Tennis Center. This match presents another opportunity for the Lions to build on their recent success and continue their strong start to the season. Fans can follow the Columbia Women’s Tennis team on Twitter (@CULionsWTEN), Instagram (@culionswten), and Facebook (@ColumbiaAthletics) for updates and further information.
Milstein Family Tennis Center Hosts Competitive Action
The match was played at the state-of-the-art Philip & Cheryl Milstein Family Tennis Center, which opened in February 2023. The facility boasts 12 courts – six indoor and six outdoor – and provides a modern and comfortable environment for both athletes and spectators. The Milstein Tennis Center also includes coaches’ offices, meeting spaces, and a strength and conditioning area, supporting the Columbia tennis programs’ pursuit of excellence.
Match Results:
| Court | Columbia | Michigan State | Score |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Gayathri Krishnan | Amara Brahmbhatt | 6-2, 6-3 |
| 2 | Sophia Wang | Ellie Blackford | 4-6, 3-2 (unfinished) |
| 3 | Emily Baek | Matilde Morais | 6-3, 6-4 |
| 4 | Michelle Li | Hanna Tsitavets | 7-6, 1-1 (unfinished) |
| 5 | Margaret Hui | Nina Plihal | 6-2, 3-6, 0-3 (unfinished) |
| 6 | Amber Yin | Issey Purser | 6-1, 6-2 |
The Columbia women’s tennis team’s dominant performance against Michigan State demonstrates their continued growth and potential for success this season. With a challenging schedule ahead, the Lions will seem to maintain their momentum and build on this victory as they prepare for their upcoming match against FDU.
Please share your thoughts on the Columbia Women’s Tennis team’s performance in the comments below.
