Syracuse Tennis Defeats Louisville 5-2

By Brittany Ehrlich

SYRACUSE, N.Y. — Syracuse women’s tennis team defeated Louisville 5-2 Friday afternoon. The pivotal point in the match was in doubles when Gabriela Knutson and Miranda Ramirez won their match.

The match got heated for Ramirez and Knutson as both sides argued plays. The other two matches that were being played at the time had already ended, turning the crowds attention to the doubles partners. The final score was 7-6, motivating the Orange going into singles.

“I think it motivates me when I’m the final match and everyone’s cheering,” said Knutson. “I feel the support from my teammates and you know all the fans that are here are there to support us. It pushes me and my doubles partner to focus and we really play better.”

Knutson also went on to win her singles match in three sets. Knutson’s strong stamina showed throughout the match as her game continued to pick up as time went on.

“She started getting tired in the second set,” said Knutson. “I could see that. I’ve been doing a lot of fitness and I know I can play three sets, five sets, as many as I want.”

Coach Younes Limam said he was proud of Knutson and her play.

“She did a really great job staying physical,” said Limam. “I think she made her move a lot and it was very smart. It payed off.”

Also at doubles, Dina Hegab and Anna Shkudon at the second spot won their match 6-4. Maria Tritou and Nicole Mitchell lost their match 1-6, giving Syracuse the early 1-0 lead.

At singles, Miranda Ramirez had her second start at the number one spot for singles, where she won (6-4,6-2). This was Miranda’s 11th consecutive win and 12th of the season.

Gabriela Knutson (4-6,6-1,6-0) at second singles, Dina Hegab (7-5,2-6, 10-7) at fifth singles, and Nicole Mitchell (7-5,6-1) also won their matches.

Anna Shkudon lost her match (7-6,5-7,12-14) at third singles along with Maria Tritou (3-6, 6-3,3-6) at fourth singles.

The Orange play again on Sunday, April 2nd at Florida State University at noon. Florida State is currently 11-8 overall.