CHARLESTON, S.C. (UCFKnights.com) – In her first tournament as a member of the UCF women's tennis team, freshman Ksenia Kuznetsova played her way into the main singles draw of the ITF $15,000 Charleston, S.C.
The Russian international went to three sets in the third round of the qualifying draw against Peyton Lavender, one of the top ranked juniors in the United States. After dropping the opener, Kuznetsova did not miss a beat in the final to sets, winning 3-6, 6-0, 6-0.
Kuznetsova was far from finished on the afternoon. Paired with fellow Knight Maria Martinez for doubles action, the duo made quick work of Elvina Kalieva and Alexandra Yepifanova, 6-3, 6-3, to punch their ticket into the quarterfinals.
Martinez faced Francesca Fusinato in her third round singles matchup. Despite a tough battle, Martinez fell to her Italian counterpart, 6-2, 6-1.
Kuznetsova will again pull double-duty on Wednesday, facing the six seed Thaisa Grana Pedretti of Brazil in the first round of the main singles draw, before teaming up with Martinez to take on Pedretti and her playing partner Emily Appleton from Great Britain.
GET THE APP
Never miss any UCF Knights news from your favorite team by downloading the free UCF Knights app right to your iOS or Android phone! The app provides personalized information for men's and women's teams, scores, schedules, loyalty programs and even breaking news.
FOLLOW THE KNIGHTS
Follow UCF Women's Tennis on social media on Facebook (/UCF.WTennis), Twitter (UCF_WTennis) and Instagram (UCFWTennis)