Box Score TAMPA, Fla. (January 24, 2026) – USF men's tennis closed out ITA Kickoff Weekend with a strong showing against No. 4 Texas on Saturday at the Weller Indoor Tennis Center, testing itself against one of the nation's top Power 4 programs in a championship-match environment.
The Bulls opened the match with competitive doubles play, highlighted by a decisive 6–2 victory from Stepan Mruzek and Timeo Gaillard. On the top court, Hugo Car and James Newton pushed Texas' top duo to the brink before narrowly falling in a 7–6 (7–5) tiebreak, underscoring how tight the opening point proved to be.
Singles play featured multiple closely contested matches against ranked opponents. On court one, No. 28 Hugo Car battled No. 39 Sebastian Gorzny, forcing long games and extended rallies before dropping a narrow 6–4, 7–5 decision. Elijah Cham and Agustin Cuellar also faced tough tests against Texas' depth, competing through physical first sets against a nationally elite lineup.
Several matches remained unfinished as Texas clinched the overall result, with USF players continuing to fight deep into third sets and late second sets across the lineup. Ettore Danesi held an early advantage against No. 25 Sebastian Eriksson, while Stepan Mruzek and Gughi Verdese were locked in tight battles when play was halted.
USF now turns its attention to the next challenge on the schedule, as the Bulls return to action against UC Santa Barbara on Feb. 1. After facing back-to-back Power 4 opponents and competing in a high-level environment, USF will look to carry that experience into the matchup with the Gauchos as the spring season continues.
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 2024-25 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 –
