UCLA Women’s Tennis Falls to Texas A&M in Super Regional, Ending Postseason Run
LOS ANGELES, CALIF. — The UCLA women’s tennis team saw its postseason journey come to an end with a hard-fought defeat in the NCAA Super Regional round, falling to a resilient and high-powered Texas A&M squad. The loss ends a strong season for the Bruins, who had been eyeing a deep run in the national tournament but fell just short of advancing to the next round.
In a tense and emotional matchup at the Los Angeles Tennis Center, the Bruins battled valiantly but ultimately could not overcome the depth and determination of the Aggies, who clinched the victory by a final score of 4-2. With the win, Texas A&M advances to the NCAA Quarterfinals, while UCLA is left to reflect on a season filled with growth, grit, and promise.
The dual match began with a fiercely competitive doubles point. UCLA started strong, with their No. 2 duo earning an early break and holding serve. However, the Aggies responded with composure and precision, eventually claiming the doubles point after victories at the top and third positions. The early deficit put UCLA on its heels but did not dampen their fighting spirit.
In singles play, both teams showcased their elite talent and mental toughness. UCLA freshman standout Mia Slama provided a bright spot, notching a straight-sets win at the No. 5 position and briefly giving the Bruins hope for a comeback. Sophomore Tian Fangran, the team’s top singles player and a national title contender, battled through a grueling three-set match at the No. 1 spot, but ultimately fell to Texas A&M’s top seed, who delivered clutch play in the deciding moments.
Texas A&M proved too deep across the board, picking up key wins at the No. 3 and No. 6 spots to seal the match. Despite a valiant effort from UCLA’s Vanessa Ong at No. 4, who was locked in a tight third set when the match was clinched, the Bruins couldn’t turn the tide.
“We left it all out there,” said UCLA head coach Stella Sampras Webster. “I’m proud of the way our team competed. Texas A&M is a tough opponent, and they earned it today. While it’s disappointing to fall short of the quarterfinals, this group showed incredible heart and growth this season.”
The Bruins finish the 2025 season with a commendable record and several individual achievements to build upon. With a talented young core and experienced leadership, UCLA is well-positioned to return stronger next year. Players like Slama and Fangran are expected to anchor the team’s future success and continue UCLA’s legacy as a national tennis powerhouse.
For Texas A&M, the win is another statement of their rise as one of the elite programs in women’s college tennis. The Aggies, now headed to the quarterfinals, continue their pursuit of a national championship with confidence and momentum.
While UCLA’s postseason ends earlier than hoped, the season offered glimpses of brilliance and a foundation for the future — and with the Bruins’ tradition of excellence, there’s no doubt they’ll be back in contention soon.
