Sept. 20, 2005

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. - Baylor's women's tennis player Zuzana Zemenova captured her moment in history when she won the NCAA's national singles title last May and continues to prove herself a talented competitor this year. Participating in the $75 K Albuquerque professional tournament, Zemenova is upsetting experienced athletes while capturing spectators' attention.

Zemenova's first day of singles action on Sunday, September 18, proved she was worthy to play against professionals when she beat Jasmin Schmack 4-6, 6-1, 6-4. In the second qualifying round Monday, September 19, Zemenova, according to assistant coach Rebekah Rhodes, played very well when posting a 6-4, 6-3 victory over Kristen Schlukebir. Her next singles match is against a former top 50 tennis player, Tara Snyder, on Tuesday, September 20. Snyder onced ranked 33rd in the world, and she is the fifth seed in the qualifying draw at Albuquerque. A win in this match would be a significant upset and would advance Zemenova into the main draw.

In doubles, Zemenova and Rhodes picked up a wild card entry into the first round qualifiers. They defeated Anda Perianu and Mary Gambale in three sets, 1-4, 4-2, 4-1. The qualifying doubles rounds have shortened matches which are played to four. Both Perianu and Gambale are highly ranked in the tournament's singles draw which makes this victory an impressive one for Zemenova and Rhodes. The Baylor duo also defeated Anne Smith and partner Ia Jikia in the second round of qualifiers 4-1, 2-4, 5-3. This win qualified Baylor's team for doubles, and they will play again Wednesday, September 21.

Results and updates will be posted for Zemenova and Rhodes as soon as information becomes available.

For information regarding the tournament, please visit: http://www.itftennis.com/womens/tournaments/ and type Albuquerque into the Name search box.