CHAMPAIGN, Ill. –– Filip Planinsek captured a 6-3, 7-6(6), 6-2 victory over Hawaii’s Andre Ilagan Monday to advance to the second round of the NCAA Singles Championships. Planinsek will face Ohio State’s Matej Vocel Tuesday at noon CT at the Khan Outdoor Tennis Complex.
“A gutsy performance for Filip today against a relentless and tough opponent. He was pushed physically and mentally throughout the match. His serve was a big weapon that created opportunities as well as his willingness to get out of tough situations. He was determined in the end and we’re all proud of his effort.”
After falling behind 1-3 to 40th-ranked Ilagan, Planinsek, ranked 25th in singles, took the next five games to win the opening set at 6-3. An evenly matched second set saw Ilagan take a 8-6 tiebreak victory, but a dominate 6-2 performance in the final round gave the UA freshman the win and advanced him to the second round of the tournament.
Planinsek will face Ohio State’s Matej Vocel, who defeated Murphy Cassone of Arizona State 6-7 (4), 6-4, 6-3, Tuesday at noon CT.
First Round Results:
Filip Planinsek (UA) def. Andre Ilagan (Hawaii) 6-3, 6-7 (6), 6-2
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