Michael Zheng '22, a rising star in the world of tennis and a proud Delbarton alumnus, added another chapter to his illustrious tennis career on November 24 by capturing the NCAA Singles Tennis Championship, the first singles championship ever for Columbia University and the first Ivy League champion since 1922. Zheng defeated Michigan State's Ozan Baris in an intense three-set battle, 6-2, 4-6, 6-2, at the Hurd Tennis Center in Waco, TX.
"It feels amazing," Zheng told NJ.com in a phone interview after the win. "I was so close six months ago last season, and I'm just really happy to get this one for sure."
Zheng's victory comes as no surprise to those who have followed his tennis journey. The 2021 NJSIAA Boys Tennis Singles Champion during his junior year at Delbarton, Zheng left the school early to focus on his tennis career, a move that has clearly paid off.
Reflecting on the similarities between his high school and collegiate achievements, Zheng shared, "It was a huge honor to play for Delbarton and win it my junior year. Then a couple years later I'm back on a similar stage winning the national tournament. There are some parallels, and I'm happy to bring home the title."
During his time at Delbarton, Zheng not only displayed incredible talent but also served as a role model for his teammates. His 2021 NJSIAA championship was the first for the Green Wave since 2017, and his dedication to his craft set a standard for the celebrated tennis program.
Now an NCAA champion, Zheng has solidified his place among the nation's elite tennis players. His win over Baris at the Hurd Tennis Center showcased his ability to deliver under pressure, battling through a second-set loss to dominate the decisive third set.
Michael Zheng will now head back to Columbia before joining three teammates presenting Team USA at the 2024 Master'U BNP Paribas Championship in Reims, France next week. With his victory, Zheng also earned a spot in a four-player playoff to determine who earns a wildcart spot at the 2025 U.S. Open.
Congratulations to Michael Zheng on this incredible accomplishment!
