Chambana Sun

The Illinois women's tennis team continued its success against Northwestern with a solid performance at the Vandy Christie Tennis Center. The Fighting Illini achieved a 4-1 victory, marking their sixth consecutive win over the Wildcats.

Ranking at number 45, Illinois now boasts an 11-11 overall record and stands 6-5 in Big Ten matchups. The 44th-ranked Northwestern holds an 11-12 record overall, with a 4-7 tally in conference play.

Illinois excelled in the doubles matches to take the lead early in the event. The team captured its 14th doubles point of the season and secured their eighth such victory in Big Ten competition. A significant moment came when Megan Heuser and Kida Ferrari, ranked No. 81, defeated Northwestern's No. 72-ranked duo with a 6-1 victory at the No. 1 position. Meanwhile, McKenna Schaefbauer and Kasia Treiber claimed a win at No. 3 doubles, marking their 13th victory in dual matches for the season.

Schaefbauer's performance at No. 1 singles also stood out as she emerged victorious in straight sets, defeating Erica Jessel with scores of 6-2, 6-2. Following her lead, Heuser earned a win at No. 2 singles, contributing to Illinois's 3-0 overall lead. Although Northwestern picked up a point in a closely contested No. 4 singles match, Treiber's effort at No. 6 singles clinched the match for Illinois with a 7-6(0), 6-4 victory.

The final score for the encounter was 4-1 in favor of Illinois, highlighting key wins in both doubles and singles formats. The team's efforts have resulted in five of its players, including Treiber, reaching double-digit victories this season.

The Fighting Illini will next compete against Indiana and No. 66 Purdue on their upcoming schedule. The matchup against Indiana is set for Friday, April 18, with regular season play concluding at Purdue on April 20.