The University of Houston women’s tennis team experienced its first defeat of the 2026 season, losing 4-0 to Arizona State University on Friday evening at Whiteman Tennis Center in Tempe, Arizona.
Houston, ranked #29 nationally and holding an 11-1 overall record (2-1 in Big 12 play), lost the doubles point for the first time this year. The pairing of Sophie Schouten and Chems Doha Zeghlouli, ranked #89, were defeated by Sara Svetac and Vivian Ovrootsky with a score of 6-2 on court one. Arizona State secured the doubles point when Aiya Nupbay and Lily Taylor beat Iva Sepa and Valeriia Krokhotina 6-4 on court two.
Arizona State, ranked #12 with a 10-3 record (2-1 Big 12), increased its lead as Emilija Tverijonaite, ranked #19 in singles, won against Elizaveta Morozova on court one with scores of 6-3, 6-0. Vivian Ovrootsky extended the Sun Devils’ advantage by defeating Iva Sepa 6-1, 6-4 on court three. The match was clinched for Arizona State when Aiya Nupbay overcame Petja Drame on court five with a scoreline of 6-4, 6-1.
Several matches remained unfinished after Arizona State secured victory.
The Cougars will continue their road trip in Arizona as they face #73-ranked Arizona at LaNell Robson Tennis Center on Sunday at 1 p.m. CT.
“Fans can make a direct impact on the success of Houston Tennis by providing NIL opportunities and by joining the Center Court Club, which provides financial support directly to Houston Tennis for needs beyond its operating budget,” according to UHCougars.com.
Supporters are encouraged to follow updates about the team through social media channels including X (@UHCougarTennis), Facebook (UHCougarTennis), and Instagram (@uhcougartennis).
