Women’s Tennis Strong on First Day of All-Americans

Cary, N.C.  – South Carolina women’s tennis had a strong showing on their first day of competition at the ITA All-American Championships, winning all three of their matches on the day.

After a delayed start in singles due to wet courts, senior Ayana Akli got right to work on No. 63 Page Freeman of Notre Dame. The 42nd ranked Gamecock was dominant, only allowing Freeman two game wins in the first set and one game win in the second set to take the match 6-2, 6-1.

Akli will advance to the second round where she will face No. 77 Cristina Mayorova of Clemson at 11 a.m. ET.

In doubles, Akli and sophomore Sarah Hamner won both their first and second round matches to advance in the draw. The duo started the day against Maria Martinez Vaquero and Rita Colyer of San Francisco. The Gamecocks were relentless, taking the match 8-3.

In the second round, Akli and Hamner took on Danielle Hack and Thamonpan Jongertakul of Massachusetts. The Gamecocks were again strong, taking down their opponents 8-4.

Akli and Hamner will take on Vanderbilt’s Sonya Macavei and Anessa Lee tomorrow at 4:30 p.m. ET for their shot at one of six available spots in the doubles main draw.

For all the latest South Carolina women’s tennis information, continue to follow GamecocksOnline.com or the team on social media (@GamecockWTennis).

Qualifying Singles Round 1

(42) Ayana Akli (SC) def. (63) Page Freeman (ND) 6-2, 6-1

Qualifying Doubles Round 1

(T-60) Ayana Akli/Sarah Hamner (SC) def. Maria Martinez Vaquero/Rita Colyer (San Fran.) 8-3

Qualifying Doubles Round 2

(T-60) Ayana Akli/Sarah Hamner (SC) def. Danielle Hack/Thamonpan Jongertakul (UMASS)