Strode wins ITF title Walters prevails

JOPLIN, Mo. — Former University of Arkansas tennis standout Blake Strode won his first International Tennis Federation Futures title on Sunday, defeating former Tulsa Hurricane Arnau Brugues, 6-1, 6-3 in Joplin, Mo.

“All of us at Arkansas tennis are so proud of Blake,” head Razorback coach Robert Cox said. “For him to win his first professional Futures title in only his third pro tournament is a testament to Blake’s ability. He’s made a very early impact on the pro circuit in the first two months of his career and we all wish him the best. It’s always great to see former Razorback being successful in their professional careers.

Playing in only his third professional tournament since graduating from Arkansas in May, Strode handled Brugues, the tournament’s No. 5-seed, for the second time in less than a year. Strode and Brugues met last October at the Intercollegiate Tennis Association All-American tournament where Strode came away with the straight sets victory.

Sophomore Razorback Matt Walters, playing in an ITA summer circuit tournament at the University of Oklahoma in Norman, Okla., earned the first tournament title of his collegiate career, defeating Tulsa’s James Seagraves in straight sets, 6-2, 6-4.

“It’s good to see Matt playing well and furthering his game through summer tournaments,” Cox said. “These matches are great for Matt and his development as not only a Razorback but as an overall collegiate player.”

For more information about Arkansas men’s tennis, log on to ArkansasRazorbacks.com.