In a thrilling semifinal match of the 2025 Big Ten Women’s Tennis Tournament, the fourth-seeded UCLA Bruins faced off against top-seeded Michigan. The Wolverines emerged victorious with a decisive 4-1 win. Elise Wagle secured a significant singles victory for UCLA in straight sets, while Michigan’s Emily Sartz-Lunde clinched the deciding point after a hard-fought third set. Doubles play was equally competitive, with Michigan eventually taking the edge in the crucial Court 3 matchup.

Michigan showcased strong performances from Piper Charney and Reese Miller, who both triumphed in their singles matches. Despite UCLA forcing third sets in multiple encounters, the Wolverines maintained their dominance, extending their lead to 3-0 before sealing the victory. Notably, Wagle continued her impressive streak with an eighth consecutive singles win, defeating Michigan’s Lily Jones in straight sets. Meanwhile, the all-freshman battle on Court 4 saw Sartz-Lunde secure a pivotal victory for Michigan.

Elise Wagle's Stellar Performance Anchors UCLA

Among the standout players, Elise Wagle provided a beacon of hope for the Bruins. Her second consecutive singles victory highlighted her remarkable consistency and skill level. Winning against nationally ranked opponents in straight sets demonstrated her prowess on the court.

Wagle's latest performance not only extended her personal singles winning streak to eight matches but also underlined her ability to handle high-pressure situations. By defeating Michigan's Lily Jones, she showcased resilience and tactical acumen. This season alone, Wagle has successfully taken down six nationally ranked players, cementing her status as one of the most formidable forces in collegiate tennis. Her victories have consistently contributed to UCLA's overall competitiveness in tournaments, making her an invaluable asset to the team.

Michigan's Dominance Secures Final Spot

The Wolverines displayed superior strength across several key matchups, ultimately leading them to the championship final. Their doubles strategy proved particularly effective, especially in the decisive Court 3 encounter. With consistent performances from Piper Charney and Reese Miller, Michigan managed to extend their lead and maintain control over the match dynamics.

The doubles segment was instrumental in shaping the outcome of the match. While UCLA excelled in the top doubles pairing, Michigan's perseverance in the Court 3 battle tipped the scales in their favor. In singles action, Michigan capitalized on opportunities presented by unfinished matches and third-set showdowns. Both Charney and Miller delivered stellar performances, contributing significantly to their team's success. Furthermore, the all-freshman clash on Court 4, where Sartz-Lunde outplayed Fakih, underscored the depth and talent within the Michigan lineup. These elements combined to propel the Wolverines into the final round of the tournament, setting the stage for what promises to be an exciting conclusion to this year's competition.