RIVERSIDE, Calif. - Azusa Pacific battled through a dramatic afternoon in Riverside, claiming a 4–3 road victory over Division I UC Riverside on Monday at the SRC Tennis Courts. The win marked APU's first dual of the spring and showcased the Cougars' depth in singles play after the doubles point went to the hosts.

After UC Riverside secured the doubles point, it responded with resilience in singles. Stina Larsson delivered a pivotal straight-sets win at No. 2 singles, rallying after a tight opening set to put them on the board. Kimberly Tran followed with a composed performance at No. 5, winning 6–3, 6–2 to level the dual.

The Cougars then seized momentum in three-set thrillers. Melis Mert fought through a back-and-forth match at No. 6 singles, closing out a 6–4, 2–6, 6–3 decision to give APU its first lead of the afternoon. At No. 3, Karola Suviste completed the comeback, bouncing back after dropping the first set to win 4–6, 7–5, 6–0—securing the decisive fourth point for Azusa Pacific.

UC Riverside earned singles wins at the top of the lineup and at No. 4, but APU's clutch performances in the middle and lower courts proved the difference.

Order of finish (singles):
1, 5, 2, 4, 6, 3

It will look to carry the momentum forward as the Cougars continue nonconference play.