The Gustavus Adolphus College men’s tennis team saw its team season come to an end Sunday with a 4-0 loss to the University of Chicago in the NCAA regional championship match. The Gusties wrap up the 2025 season with a 20-12 record and will now turn their attention to the NCAA Individual Championships in Claremont, California. Gage Gohl, Tyler Haddorff, and Marco Siviero will represent Gustavus in the singles and doubles events.
The University of Chicago, ranked No. 4 nationally, gained an early edge by winning the No. 1 doubles match 6-3. However, Gustavus responded at No. 3, where seniors Josh Christensen and Taona Mhwandagara delivered a strong performance to win 6-3.
The deciding point came at No. 2 doubles. Dominik Knutson and Marco Siviero were one point away from securing the doubles point for Gustavus, but Chicago rallied and took the tiebreak 7-6 (7-5).
In singles play, Chicago closed out the match with wins at No. 3, No. 4, and No. 6 to secure the regional title.
“Our guys gave everything they had today,” said head coach Dr. Tommy Valentini. “We came out with great energy in doubles and really set the tone. Taona and Josh played their best match of the season at the biggest moment — exactly what you want from senior leaders. We were inches away from grabbing the doubles point, but Chicago played very well under pressure.”
Despite starting singles down 0-1, the Gusties kept competing fiercely.
“Chicago had to play their best to beat us,” Valentini said. “Gage was pushing hard, Marco was in control of his match, and Tyler had just won his second set. We were right there in those matches.”
Valentini praised the team’s effort and the leadership of the seniors.
“This was a tough loss, but this group has been incredible all season,” he said. “They represent our program with integrity and compete with passion. Our seniors have led by example on and off the court and have raised the bar for future Gusties. We’re proud of everything they’ve given us.”
Looking ahead, Gustavus will now prepare for the NCAA Individual Championships, where the remaining players will compete for national honors.
“We’re excited about the next challenge,” Valentini added. “We’ll rest, recover, and get ready for a great trip to California.”
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