In doubles play, Michigan State fought hard, claiming two close victories. The first match to finish saw junior Matilde Morais and redshirt sophomore Hanna Tsitavets lose to senior Kiley Rabjohns and graduate student Britany Lau, 6-1. Morais and Tsitavets struggled to find rhythm against their opponents.

MSU junior Issey Purser and redshirt sophomore Oriana Parkins-Godwin battled back and forth against sophomore Neena Feldman and freshman Mika Dagan Fruchtman. Purser and Godwin pulled away for a 7-6 win, tying the doubles at 1-1.

With the doubles tied at 1-1, MSU needed to rally to claim the doubles point and gain an advantage heading into singles play. Senior Liisa Vehviläinen and freshman Ellie Blackford battled against Northwestern’s freshman Erica Jessel and senior Sydney Pratt, finishing with a 7-6 victory to give MSU a 1-0 lead.

Singles 

In singles play, Michigan State took control and finished with a 3-2 victory, with the final match left unfinished.

Freshman Amara Brahmbhatt and Morais dominated their singles matches, winning 6-2, 6-1 and 6-4, 6-3, respectively.

With MSU needing one more point to secure the victory, Vehviläinen delivered in a tense match against Jessel. After losing the first set 6-2, Vehviläinen rallied to win the next two sets 6-1 and 6-2.

"Liisa's dedication and talent have been the cornerstone of the Spartan women's tennis program. Her unwavering spirit and leadership inspire us all," MSU women's tennis head coach Kim Bruno said. "Today's victory against Northwestern was a testament to our collective hard work and determination. While she will be missed, we look forward to the challenges and matches ahead, knowing that her legacy will continue to motivate us."

Michigan State will face Illinois on Sunday, March 30, at 10 a.m. at the Michigan State Indoor Tennis Center.