The California women’s tennis team, ranked seventh nationally, secured a 4-1 victory over No. 73 Wake Forest on Saturday at the Hellman Tennis Complex in Berkeley. This win brought Cal’s record to 5-1 overall and 3-1 in conference play, following its first loss of the season to NC State the previous day. Wake Forest fell to 7-6 and remains winless in conference matches.
In doubles action, Cal lost on court three but recovered with wins from Berta Passola Folch and Laura Cilekova on court two, defeating Heidi Bulger and Evie Oxford 6-2. The Bears clinched the doubles point when Mao Mushika and Johanne Svendsen beat Nevena Carton and Kady Tannenbaum 6-4.
Wake Forest tied the match at one apiece after Cal freshman Mille Johanna Moerk retired due to injury while trailing Oxford on court five. Cal responded by winning singles matches decisively: Passola Folch defeated Krystal Blanch 6-0, 6-1 on court two, and Cilekova topped Bulger by the same score on court four. Anya Murthy then secured her first clinching win as a Golden Bear by beating Aubrey Nisbet 6-1, 7-5 on court six.
“The Bears have had to face numerous challenges this season and this weekend was no different,” said assistant coach Stephanie Kusano Wallace. “NC State always competes with high-level intensity and we knew they would be tough. Despite being plagued with injuries, illness and doubles pairing adjustments, the team fought hard and we definitely had our chances. The difference hinged on a few crucial points that influenced momentum and ultimately the outcome. It was an important lesson in the difference between playing to win and playing not to lose. However, I’m proud of how the team pulled together and responded with purpose and professionalism. Various players had new opportunities to play under pressure these past few matches and it’s a great sign that they are ready to make contributions, as evidenced by Anya Murthy clinching for us today. As a team, we took a step in the right direction toward growing and trusting the process.”
Cal has played all six dual matches at home so far this season. The homestand will conclude against No. 10 Pepperdine on March 8.
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