NEW YORK – The Columbia women’s tennis team, ranked 46th nationally, looks to continue its strong start to the 2026 season as it hosts Fairleigh Dickinson University (FDU) on Wednesday at the Philip & Cheryl Milstein Family Tennis Center. First serve is scheduled for 1 p.m.
The Lions are coming off a dominant performance against Big Ten opponent Michigan State, sweeping the Spartans in a decisive victory at the Milstein Family Tennis Center. That win improved Columbia’s record to 5-2 on the season.
Doubles Dominance Fuels Columbia’s Success
A key factor in Columbia’s success this season has been its consistent performance in doubles play. The Lions have secured the doubles point in all seven dual matches played thus far, providing a significant early advantage in each contest. The pairing of Gayathri Krishnan and Lin has been particularly strong, boasting a 12-2 record overall and a perfect 5-0 mark in spring matches. The duo was also leading in the two matches that were abandoned. Emily Baek and Wang have also contributed significantly, posting a 7-1 record as a pair and a 5-0 record in 2026. Michelle Li and Amber Yin are 2-0 as partners, while El Allami and Yin were 10-2 playing together.
Krishnan Leads the Way in Singles Play
Junior Gayathri Krishnan has been a standout performer for the Lions in singles competition. She has established herself as a force on court one, improving to an 18-5 record in 2025-26 and currently riding a seven-match winning streak. Last week, Krishnan defeated Michigan State’s Amara Brahmbhatt in straight sets, 6-2, 6-3. The reigning Ivy League Player of the Year has a career record of 67-22 and is on track to surpass her win total from last season, where she went 25-10, including a 16-3 record in the spring.
Ivy League Strength
Columbia’s strong showing is part of a broader trend of success within the Ivy League. All eight conference teams are currently ranked in the top 75 in the latest ITA team rankings, with five schools – including Columbia at No. 46 and Penn at No. 45 – residing in the top 50. Malak El Allami is also individually recognized, holding a No. 121 national ranking in singles play, making her one of two Ivy League players in the top 125.
Looking Ahead: A Familiar Opponent
Wednesday’s match against FDU marks the third meeting between the two programs, but the first since 2011. Columbia holds a 2-0 advantage in the series, having won previous matchups in 2010 (6-1) and 2011 (7-0). FDU enters the contest with a 3-3 overall record, having secured consecutive 4-3 victories over SFU and NJIT. The Knights are 2-3 on the road this spring.
FDU’s lineup is led by senior Anatastasia Lim, who holds a 9-7 overall record and a 3-2 record at the No. 1 singles position.
Live Coverage
Fans can follow all the action live through Columbia’s stretch portal. Live scores will also be available online.
Following Wednesday’s match against FDU, Columbia will continue its homestand.
