Tennis DIVISION I Men’S
Tennis DIVISION I MEN’S Highlights Southern California Wins Second Straight National Title: Daniel Nguyen didn’t want to part with the national championship trophy, coddling it like a baby on his way to do post-match interviews. “I think I’m going to sleep with it tonight,” he joked. “No, but it’s definitely great to hold this trophy.” It should be. Nguyen did his part, clinching Southern California’s second consecutive Division I men’s tennis national title at No. 4 singles as the Trojans defeated Tennessee, 4-2, on May 25 at the Dan Magill Tennis Complex. Nguyen defeated Tennessee’s Tennys Sandgren 6-7 (3), 6-1, 6-0 to help fifth-seeded Southern California (26-3) rally from a doubles loss for its sixth NCAA title. The Trojans defeated Ohio State 4-1 last year in College Station, Texas, adding to their titles from 1991, ‘93, ‘94 and 2002. “When you win like this, it’s a testament to great players,” Southern California coach Peter Smith said. “These guys were great out there. They showed their versatility. They showed their complete games, and most importantly, they showed their heart and guts to come from behind and win it.” Tennessee (31-2) has never won an NCAA title, also losing in the final in 1990 and 2001, but the Volunteers entered the night of the championship as the second seed and riding a 21-match winning streak. They struck quickly, winning the doubles, but then fell behind in singles and couldn’t catch the Trojans. “As a team, we’re very united and we care a lot for each other,” Tennessee’s Rhyne Williams said.
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