WHITEWATER, Wis. - Gustavus men's tennis concluded its team season Sunday with a 4-0 loss to the University of Chicago in the NCAA region championship match. The Gusties end the 2025 campaign 20-12 overall and now turn their attention to the NCAA Individual Championships in Claremont, Calif. where
Gage Gohl,
Tyler Haddorff, and
Marco Siviero will compete.
The fourth-ranked Maroons got the early advantage in doubles, winning 6-3 at No. 1, but the Gusties came even at No. 3 as
Josh Christensen and
Taona Mhwandagara earned a 6-3 win. Down to court two,
Dominik Knutson and
Marco Siviero were one point away from clinching the doubles point for the Gusties, but Chicago stormed back to claim the breaker 7-6 (7-5).
In singles play, the Maroons were able to close it out with wins at Nos. 3, 4, and 6.
"The guys fought their hearts out today," said head coach
Dr. Tommy Valentini. "We played with great energy in the doubles and set the tone the way we hoped. Taona and Joshy were a masterclass at three. They played their best match in then biggest moment - exactly what you hope for from your senior leaders. We competed well but came up just short at number one against a strong opponent. At two, Dom and Marco played so well and got us to the brink. We were inches from the doubles point there and just didn't get it over the line.
"Despite the 0-1 deficit, the guys were warriors in the singles. Chicago had to play well to close us out, and we were right there in the last three matches going. Gage was making a great push, Marco was in command in his match and Tyler had just earned a split.
"It's certainly a heartbreaking loss, but this group was amazing today and really all year long. They understand who we are and what we do at the highest level. They care deeply for each other, and they compete the right way with tremendous consistency. They left it all out there today and we couldn't be prouder of them. Ours seniors were excellent. On and off the court they've lived our culture beautifully and raised the standards for our program. We thank them for all they've given and we'll certainly be standing on their shoulders as we move forward.
"We now look forward to the fun challenges of individual nationals. We'll look to rest up and recover and prepare ourselves for a fun trip to California."
