National University’s Adeline Abadia (left) and Rovie Baulate defeated UST’s Judy Padilla and Debbie Gom-os, 6-2, 6-2, in the first doubles match in the UAAP Season 87 tennis finals at the Felicisimo Ampon Tennis Center in Manila on Wednesday (April 9, 2025). The Lady Bulldogs won, 3-1, to lead the best-of-three title series. (UAAP photo)
The National University (NU) Lady Bulldogs took a commanding 3-1 win over the University of Santo Tomas (UST) Golden Tigresses in Game 1 of the UAAP Season 87 women’s tennis finals, held Wednesday at the Felicisimo Ampon Tennis Center in Malate, Manila.
Doubles duo Rovie Baulete and Adeline Abadia set the tone early, dominating Judy Padilla and Debbie Gom-os with a convincing 6-2, 6-2 win to put NU within striking distance of a fourth consecutive and eighth overall championship.
“Winning Game 1 is really important for us because it takes off a lot of pressure heading into the next game,” Baulete said. “The key is staying united, focused, and trusting that we can handle each challenge.”
The Lady Bulldogs opened the best-of-five tie with Jasmin Jaran’s straight-sets victory over Patricia Lim, 6-3, 6-3, giving NU a quick 1-0 lead.
UST responded through Kaye Emana, who staged a comeback win against Danna Abad, 4-6, 6-2, 6-3, to level the tie at 1-1.
However, NU quickly regained the upper hand as Elsie Abarquez overpowered Mica Emana, 6-3, 6-1, to secure a 2-1 lead.
“Our strategy was simple—just play their usual game and focus on winning at least two singles matches,” said NU head coach Ronard Joven. “We didn’t want them to feel too much pressure. Most of them are experienced in finals matches, so that gives us an advantage.”
“Winning Game 1 is a big deal,” Joven added. “Last year, we dropped the opener and felt the pressure mount. This time, the victory boosts the team’s confidence going into Game 2.”
The Lady Bulldogs will aim to close out the series and clinch the title when Game 2 takes place at 7 a.m. on Saturday.
