TAMPA, Fla. (January 23, 2026) – South Florida men's tennis continued play at the ITA Kickoff in Texas, turning in a strong showing against Washington highlighted by clutch doubles points and three straight-set singles victories.

The Bulls opened the match with momentum in doubles, earning two tiebreak wins to set the tone. Hugo Car and James Newton controlled their court with a 6–3 victory, while Stepan Mruzek and Timeo Gaillard followed with a tight 7–6 win to secure the doubles point.

In singles, USF produced three convincing wins across the lineup. Ettore Danesi delivered a composed performance, earning a 6–1, 6–4 victory. Stepan Mruzek added another point with a gritty 7–5, 6–3 win, and Gughi Verdese closed out the day with a dominant 6–2, 6–1 performance.

Several additional matches were closely contested before play was halted, including competitive sets at the top and middle of the order, reflecting the Bulls' ability to sustain pressure throughout the match.

The Bulls will look to build on the momentum from their doubles success and decisive singles wins as ITA Kickoff play continues versus Texas, at 1:30pm on Saturday, January 24.

Match Results vs. Washington (Played in Texas)

Doubles
Car/Newton def. Pearson/Purohit, 6–3
Kamendje/Plavsic def. Danesi/Mroz, 7–6
Mruzek/Gaillard def. Belday/Seo, 7–6

Singles
Car vs. Purohit, unfinished (6–4, 4–4)
Cham vs. Kamendje, unfinished (7–6, 1–3)
Cuellar vs. Belday, unfinished (4–6, 4–5)
Danesi def. Pearson, 6–1, 6–4
Mruzek def. Seo, 7–5, 6–3
Verdese def. Bien, 6–2, 6–1

 

About USF Men's Tennis

Be sure to follow USF men's tennis on social media (Twitter / Facebook / Instagram) and visit GoUSFBulls.com for the most up-to-date information.

Head coach Ashley Fisher is in his ninth year at the helm of the program for the 2025-26 season. Fischer has guided the Bulls to four NCAA Tournaments, including three trips to the second round. He was named the American Athletic Conference Coach of the Year in 2017 & 2019 after leading USF to the conference title in each of those seasons.

– #Go Bulls –