Women's tennis impresses at Samford Round Robin event

The 2025-26 women’s tennis season is officially underway, as Troy began its campaign at the Samford Fall Invitational. Joined by Jacksonville State, South Alabama and the host Samford, the Trojans participated in a three-day round-robin style tournament. 

Troy found success on each day, beginning by going 2-1 in doubles play and 4-2 in singles on day one. While day two saw the Trojans go 1-2 in doubles play, they remained consistent repeating their singles record from the day prior. On day three, the Trojans got back to their winning ways, again going 2-1 in doubles and 4-2 in singles – good for an overall 5-4 record in doubles accompanied by a 12-6 singles record. 

"Overall, it was a great performance and I'm super proud of the girls -- they showed up, they fought and they gave 100% on the court every day," said head coach Rawia Elsisi. 

Day one action kicked off with doubles play, as the team of Valeriia Avdeeva and Maria Guirguis secured a 6-3 victory over Angel Rodriguez Rizo and Sae Kaneko of Jacksonville State. Action concluded with Emilia Namyslo and Sama Hindawy taking down JSU’s Irene Artigas and Emma Montagner, 6-4. 

Day two was highlighted by Guirguis taking down JSU’s Isabella Sambola in two sets, 6-1, 6-3. Avdeeva continued the singles momentum, only needing two sets to defeat Angeles Rodriguez Rizo, 6-2, 6-3. Veena Nazar followed suit by dispatching Alba Roche in two sets. 

Moving on to day three, Alexis Zarate stole the spotlight in singles play. After falling behind in the first set, the freshman battled back to take set two 7-5. In the decisive third set, Zarate proved to be too much for South Alabama’s Jana Rovira, taking the set and victory in a 10-2 tiebreak.  

Avdeeva and Hindawy return to Troy undefeated in singles play. In doubles action, Namyslo and Hindawy were the lone duo to return undefeated. 

The Trojans have about a week off before travelling to Macon, Georgia, for the Mercer Gridiron Classic. Action is set to begin on Oct. 3, and conclude Oct. 6.