The 2024 NCAA tennis championships at Baylor University will be remembered as a landmark event, as two rising stars from opposite sides of the world made history with their singles titles. Dasha Vidmanova of the University of Georgia became the first Czech woman to win an NCAA singles crown, while Columbia University’s Michael Zheng etched his name as the first Ivy League men’s champion in over a century.
A Day of Firsts in Waco
Under the blazing Texas sun, the stage was set for an unforgettable day of tennis at the Hurd Tennis Center. In the women’s final, 21-year-old Vidmanova, a senior from the Czech Republic, faced off against Auburn’s DJ Bennett. The Bulldog star showcased her powerful groundstrokes and unwavering determination, securing a 6-3, 6-3 victory to claim Georgia’s first women’s singles title since 2010.
“This is a dream come true,” Vidmanova said, fighting back tears of joy. “To win this for my school, my country, and all those who have supported me – it’s an incredible feeling.”
– Dasha Vidmanova, 2024 NCAA Women’s Singles Champion
On the men’s side, 20-year-old junior Zheng made history for the Ivy League. The Montville, New Jersey native outlasted Michigan State’s Ozan Baris in a thrilling 6-2, 4-6, 6-2 battle, becoming the first Columbia Lion and Ivy Leaguer to claim the NCAA men’s singles trophy since 1922.
An All-American Affair
Zheng’s clash with Baris marked a rare occasion – the first all-American men’s singles final since 2017. The two young stars put on a dazzling display of shotmaking and grit, trading blistering forehands and crafty volleys. But it was Zheng who proved steadier in the decisive moments.
“To be in this position, representing Columbia and the Ivy League, it’s humbling,” Zheng reflected. “This win isn’t just for me; it’s for all those who came before and paved the way.”
– Michael Zheng, 2024 NCAA Men’s Singles Champion
Journeys to the Top
For Vidmanova and Zheng, the road to NCAA glory was paved with challenges and sacrifices. Vidmanova, hailing from the small Czech town of Říčany, left home at 14 to pursue her tennis dreams. She honed her skills at academies across Europe before landing a scholarship at Georgia.
Zheng’s path was equally arduous. The son of Chinese immigrants, he grew up balancing tennis with academic excellence. His talent caught the eye of Columbia coaches, who offered him the chance to compete while earning an Ivy League education.
Bright Futures Ahead
With their NCAA titles secure, Vidmanova and Zheng now set their sights on the professional ranks. Both have already tasted success on the ITF Circuit and earned wild cards into major tournaments.
Tennis pundits are abuzz with excitement over their potential. Renowned coach Patrick Mouratoglou praised their games and mental fortitude:
“Dasha and Michael possess the full package. They have the shots, the physicality, and most importantly, the unshakable self-belief to succeed at the highest level. I wouldn’t be surprised to see them in the top 50 within a year or two.”
– Patrick Mouratoglou, Tennis Coach
Inspiring the Next Generation
Beyond their personal achievements, Vidmanova and Zheng’s triumphs carry a greater significance. They serve as role models for aspiring players worldwide, particularly those from underrepresented nations in tennis.
“Seeing Dasha win the NCAAs, it shows us Czech girls that we can dream big,” said 12-year-old Karolína Novák, a rising junior star. “She’s proof that with hard work and belief, anything is possible, no matter where you come from.”
– Karolína Novák, Czech Junior Tennis Player
Similarly, Zheng’s victory resonates deeply with the Asian-American community. Tennis participation rates among Asian-Americans have soared in recent years, spurred by the success of trailblazers like Michael Chang and Li Na. Zheng’s achievement adds another chapter to that inspiring legacy.
As Vidmanova and Zheng bask in the glow of their historic feats, the tennis world eagerly awaits their next moves. With their talent, drive, and trailblazing spirits, these two young stars seem destined to leave an indelible mark on the sport for years to come.
