The Columbia men's tennis team, ranked ninth nationally, delivered an impressive performance by sweeping Dartmouth 4-0 in their final match at the Boss Tennis Center. This victory not only solidified their outright Ivy League Championship title but also secured them an automatic berth in the NCAA Tennis Championships. With a flawless 7-0 record in Ivy League play and only conceding one point all season, the Lions showcased their dominance in collegiate tennis.

Following their Saturday triumph over Harvard, which clinched at least a shared Ivy League crown, the Lions cemented their legacy with this latest win. This marks their 13th outright championship and their first since 2019. Key victories in both doubles and singles matches highlighted the team's strategic depth and individual prowess, setting the stage for their next challenge in the NCAA Regionals.

Unyielding Doubles Performance Sets Tone

In the doubles segment, the Lions demonstrated exceptional synergy and coordination, securing crucial wins on the No. 1 and No. 3 courts. Their decisive victories against Dartmouth's pairs were instrumental in building momentum early in the match. The precision and teamwork displayed in these matches underscored the strength of Columbia's doubles lineup.

Hugo Hashimoto and Jayden Templeman initiated the Lions' campaign with a resounding 6-2 victory over Dartmouth's Denny Bao and Alex Knox Jones. Following closely, Michael Zheng and Nicolas Kotzen reinforced the team's dominance by defeating Yujiro Onuma and Walled Qadir with another 6-2 scoreline. These outcomes not only secured the doubles point but also set a confident tone for the subsequent singles encounters. The seamless communication and tactical execution exhibited by these duos exemplify the high standards upheld within the Columbia tennis program.

Dominance in Singles Matches Seals Triumph

Transitioning to the singles matches, Columbia's top players maintained the team's momentum, delivering decisive victories that sealed the match outcome. Each player showcased remarkable skill and resilience, contributing significantly to the overall success. The Lions' consistent excellence in singles play further emphasized their status as formidable competitors.

Senior Max Westphal led the charge with a commanding 6-4, 6-2 victory over Hikaru Takeda. Shortly thereafter, Nicolas Kotzen added to the tally with a 7-5, 6-2 win against Henry Ren. Finally, Michael Zheng clinched the match with a hard-fought 7-6, 6-1 triumph over Guerrero Alvarez. Although some matches remained unfinished due to the Lions already securing their four-point lead, the players continued to demonstrate their competitive spirit. This series of victories highlights the Lions' comprehensive approach to both strategy and execution, ensuring their place among the elite in college tennis.