The University of Chicago’s women’s tennis team has secured their first NCAA Division III championship, making history with a 5-3 victory over Wesleyan. This momentous win follows two consecutive seasons of being the national runners-up. The Maroons clinched the title in a thrilling fashion, with Sylwia Mikos sealing the deal in a captivating three-set match.
Ranked No. 3, the Maroons, with an impressive 23-1 record, are celebrating their triumph as only the third UChicago team to claim a team championship in the school’s Division III era, joining men’s tennis (2022) and men’s soccer (2022). Mikos’ exceptional performance and her last-set win in six consecutive games propelled the team to their historic victory, sparking jubilant celebrations and overwhelming emotions among her teammates.
In a post-match interview, Mikos expressed her disbelief and joy, stating, “It felt unreal, yet deep down we knew we could pull it off. There was so much to take in, so much to enjoy. After coming close in the previous two years, this victory feels especially rewarding.” She also credited the strong foundation established by the previous teams and seniors, along with the unwavering support from the University of Chicago community, for their success.
The road to victory was not without its challenges, as the Maroons secured two of three matches in doubles play to claim a 2-1 lead. Rena Lin and Olwia Mikos, along with Sylwia Mikos and Shianna Guo, emerged victorious in their respective doubles matches. Despite Wesleyan’s tenacity, maintaining a tight score throughout, the Maroons ultimately prevailed with Lin’s dominant performance in singles and a decisive win by Sarena Biria in a nail-biting three-set match.
This remarkable win marked the Maroons’ fourth appearance in the NCAA title match and their seventh trip to the Final Four, showcasing their consistent prowess and determination. Notably, their journey to the championship was marked by a historic comeback victory in the semifinals, where they rallied to win five of six singles matches after dropping all three doubles matches—an unprecedented feat in Division III history since 2008.
Coach Jay Tee, in his 12th season, reflected on the team’s journey, emphasizing the unwavering faith and resilience that propelled their success. He acknowledged the significance of the championship for the program’s history and the collective effort of past players, coaches, and supporters in laying the foundation for this triumphant moment.
The University of Chicago’s women’s tennis team’s historic win not only marks a significant milestone for the program but also serves as a testament to their unwavering dedication, resilience, and the unyielding support of their community. With this remarkable victory, the team has undoubtedly etched their names in the annals of UChicago sports history, solidifying their status as true champions.