Daily Court Report
by Walt Reese
What started as a gray, stormy afternoon turned into a perfect summer evening at Cary Tennis Park, with the clouds clearing just in time for one of the most memorable nights of the tournament so far.
A midday weather delay pushed back much of the schedule, but once play resumed, the energy on site picked up quickly. And it wasn’t just about the tennis. Wednesday marked Abilities Tennis Night, and the crowd showed up in full support. Players, families, and fans came together for an inclusive clinic and exhibition that brought real heart to the event—a powerful reminder of how tennis can bring people together across all levels and communities.
Once the matches got underway, the on-court action kept the momentum going. Cary native and No. 8 seed Patrick Kypson earned a straight set win over Brazilian fan favorite Karue Sell, 7-6(3), 6-3, in a high-level battle on Anthony Blackman Stadium Court. Later that evening, Alexis Galarneau, the No. 4 seed and an NC State alum, rallied from a set down to defeat Georgia Tech’s Andres Martin, 2-6, 6-3, 6-3. The two local favorites will now face off in a highly anticipated quarterfinal later this week.
Canadian No. 2 seed Liam Draxl, a University of Kentucky product, continued his strong run with a 6-2, 6-2 win over American qualifier Joshua Sheehy. American Aidan Mayo also advanced, taking out Japan’s Hiroki Moriya 6-4, 6-4 to keep his momentum rolling.
On the women’s side, American wildcard and former World No. 35 Madison Brengle came from behind to defeat Japan’s Himeno Sakatsume, 1-6, 6-1, 6-4. University of Georgia’s Darja Vidmanová, who made NCAA history this season by winning the triple crown (team, singles, and doubles championships) scored an impressive comeback win over No. 7 seed Kayla Cross, 3-6, 6-4, 6-1.
UNC standouts were also in the spotlight. Reese Brantmeier, the 2025 ACC Player of the Year, pushed Canada’s Cadence Brace but came up just short in a tight 6-1, 7-6(5) loss. Her Tar Heel teammate Fiona Crawley, a former NCAA Doubles Champion, saw her run end with a 6-3, 6-1 loss to No. 5 seed Mariam Bolkvadze.
Between the break in the weather, a packed evening crowd, and the spirit of Abilities Tennis Night, Day 4 delivered on every level. Matches continue Thursday as the Cary Tennis Classic builds toward a thrilling weekend finish.
