The Gustavus men’s tennis team defeated Carleton 9-0 on Saturday to claim its 18th consecutive MIAC Championship. The Gusties, who are ranked #1 nationally, defeated St. Mary’s 5-1, Saint John’s 8-0, and Carleton 9-0 on their way to the title. The championship match, which was moved indoors due to rain, was played at the Rochester Athletic Club.
The Gusties won the title match against the Knights in convincing fashion as they did not drop a set in the nine matches. Gustavus outscored its three opponents 22-1 in the tournament and used 17 different players in the process. The only player to play in two matches during the tournament was first year Mike Burdakin (Bettendorf, Iowa). Burdakin won at #1 singles against Saint Mary’s and #6 singles against Carleton.
Gustavus, which improves to 31-4, has not lost to a Division III opponent this season. The Gusties will find out on Monday who their opponent will be in the NCAA Championship. The team will likely host one part of the Central Regional next weekend (May 5-7).