Friedrich, Cerundolo Advance to Final Round of Qualifying

Oct. 29, 2017

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – South Carolina men’s tennis senior Gabriel Friedrich and freshman Francisco Cerundolo will compete to advance to the main draw of the Birmingham ITF Futures Sunday as both captured strong victories Sunday.

Friedrich took on Slovakia’s Aljaz Jakob Kaplja in the round of 32. In his closest match of the competition so far, the Gamecocks’ Brazilian powered through with a late break in a tough first set to record a 7-5, 6-3 win and advance to the next round. He will face Germany’s Florian Broska on Monday to secure a spot in the main draw.

Cerundolo earned his third win of the qualifying bracket, topping Daniel Kerznerman. The Argentinian Gamecock made quick work of his opponent, finishing 6-2, 6-1 and will compete to qualify for the main draw on Monday against Sergio Ramirez.

Friedrich is set to play Broska at 11:30 p.m. on court four, and Cerundolo is set to play Ramirez at 11:30 on court two.

Follow the Gamecocks on Twitter @GamecockMTennis for updates on their progress at the Birmingham ITF Futures.