Ohio State University Women’s Tennis will face LSU in the Super Regional round of the 2025 NCAA Championship.

As the 2025 NCAA Women’s Tennis Championship enters its climactic stages, all eyes turn to a thrilling matchup in the Super Regional round: Ohio State University versus Louisiana State University (LSU). These two powerhouses in collegiate tennis are set to square off in what promises to be a tightly contested battle of strategy, skill, and determination. For Ohio State, this moment is not only an opportunity to advance to the Elite Eight but also a chance to reinforce its reputation as one of the nation’s premier programs.

This highly anticipated showdown will test the resolve and preparation of both teams. Ohio State enters the match with a deep and balanced roster, having navigated a challenging regular season and an intense first round with poise. LSU, meanwhile, boasts a lineup filled with raw power and aggressive play that has overwhelmed many opponents throughout the season. With both programs fueled by passionate coaching and storied athletic traditions, the Super Regional promises a spectacle for tennis fans across the country.

In this in-depth preview, we’ll examine how Ohio State arrived at this stage, what lies ahead against LSU, key players to watch, the historical significance of this matchup, and what it will take for the Buckeyes to punch their ticket to the NCAA quarterfinals.

Ohio State’s Road to the Super Regional

The 2025 season has been one of focused determination for the Ohio State women’s tennis team. Under the leadership of head coach Melissa Schaub, now in her 13th season at the helm, the Buckeyes have consistently demonstrated grit, tactical intelligence, and team cohesion. Ranked among the top programs in the Big Ten and nationally, Ohio State entered the NCAA tournament with high expectations and a clear goal: to reach deeper into the postseason than ever before.

In the opening rounds of the championship, Ohio State dispatched its opponents with confidence. Their early victories showcased the team’s depth, with wins across both singles and doubles play. The doubles point—a crucial early edge in college tennis—has consistently gone Ohio State’s way, thanks in large part to the chemistry between their top pairs.

Players like Sydni Ratliff, Irina Cantos Siemers, and Shelly Bereznyak have led the charge in singles, turning in dominant performances against some of the nation’s best. Ratliff, in particular, has been a standout, providing not only consistent victories but also the kind of leadership that rallies her teammates in high-pressure moments.

Now, standing just one match away from the Elite Eight, the Buckeyes are preparing for their most difficult test yet.

Scouting the Opponent: LSU Tigers

The LSU Tigers are no strangers to high-stakes tennis. Hailing from the always-competitive SEC, the Tigers enter the Super Regional with a reputation for hard-hitting, aggressive play and a mentally tough approach to matches. LSU’s path to this point has included impressive wins against nationally ranked teams, and their rise in the standings over the season has made them a dangerous draw in the NCAA bracket.

Led by head coach Julia Sell, LSU has developed a team culture centered on resilience, energy, and peak performance in clutch situations. The Tigers have also benefitted from international recruiting, with players hailing from tennis-rich nations who bring diverse playing styles and strategies.

LSU’s top singles players, including senior standout Anastasiya Komar and the fast-rising sophomore Ellie Coleman, have anchored the team all season. Their ability to win long rallies and control points from the baseline makes them especially dangerous against disciplined teams like Ohio State. In doubles, LSU’s aggression at the net and strong serve-return game give them an early advantage that the Buckeyes must counter.

Key Matchups and Tactical Storylines

At the heart of the Super Regional clash are the matchups between elite singles players and the doubles pairings that have defined each team’s success this season.

• Doubles Point Dynamics: The opening doubles point could prove decisive. Ohio State will likely field their usual top duo of Ratliff and Bereznyak, who combine finesse and court awareness with aggressive shot-making. LSU, on the other hand, will look to disrupt Ohio State’s rhythm with powerful serves and quick reflexes at the net.
• Top Singles Battle: Sydni Ratliff vs. Anastasiya Komar (projected) could be one of the most compelling matches of the weekend. Both players are capable of dictating play, and their contrasting styles—Ratliff’s counterpunching versus Komar’s baseline power—set the stage for a tactical showdown.
• Depth on Display: Much of Ohio State’s strength lies in the middle and lower parts of the lineup, where players like Isabelle Boulais and Luna Dormet have often provided key wins. LSU will need strong performances from their depth players to match Ohio State’s balance.

Strategically, Ohio State will likely look to extend rallies and force LSU into errors, especially in singles where patience and point construction are crucial. Coach Schaub’s emphasis on adaptability and mental toughness has been key in helping the Buckeyes grind out tough matches, particularly in postseason play.

The Stakes: What This Match Means for Ohio State

Advancing past the Super Regional would mark a significant achievement for the Buckeyes. A win would send them to the NCAA quarterfinals, a milestone that would reflect the program’s steady rise under Schaub and cement their status among the elite in collegiate tennis.

Beyond the competitive achievement, this moment represents a chance for Ohio State to showcase its excellence on the national stage. The university has made significant investments in its tennis facilities and athlete development, and postseason success affirms those efforts. For the players, especially upperclassmen like Ratliff and Cantos Siemers, this could be a career-defining opportunity to etch their names into Buckeye tennis history.

Moreover, success in the tournament fuels momentum for future recruiting, fan engagement, and the broader prestige of Ohio State athletics. The tennis team’s visibility, particularly in a high-profile matchup like this, inspires younger athletes and helps grow the sport across the Midwest.

The Role of Leadership: Coach Melissa Schaub’s Impact

One of the most important elements in Ohio State’s success story is head coach Melissa Schaub. Since taking over the program, Schaub has transformed the Buckeyes into a perennial Big Ten power and national contender. Her leadership has created a culture of accountability, teamwork, and consistent improvement.

Schaub is known for her meticulous match preparation and her ability to get the most out of her players. Under her guidance, Ohio State has not only produced All-Americans but also maintained one of the highest team GPAs in the department, a testament to her emphasis on the student-athlete experience.

As the Buckeyes prepare to face LSU, Schaub’s experience and ability to make adjustments mid-match will be critical. Her calm demeanor and belief in her team’s abilities provide a steadying presence in pressure-packed moments.

Fan Support and Home Advantage

If Ohio State hosts the Super Regional, home-court advantage could play a pivotal role. The Buckeye faithful are known for creating an energized and supportive atmosphere at the Ty Tucker Tennis Center, one of the top college tennis venues in the country.

The combination of familiarity with the court, crowd support, and reduced travel stress can provide a measurable edge in a match as closely contested as this one. If the match is played away, Ohio State will rely on its resilience and road-tested strategies—skills they’ve honed all season.

Regardless of the location, the broader Ohio State community will be rallying behind the women’s tennis team. The Buckeyes’ success is a source of pride for students, alumni, and fans across the country.

A Moment of Destiny for the Buckeyes

As the Ohio State University women’s tennis team prepares to face LSU in the 2025 NCAA Super Regional, the stakes couldn’t be higher. This match is about more than just advancing in the tournament—it’s about legacy, leadership, and the pursuit of excellence. For the players, it’s a chance to prove themselves on one of the biggest stages in college tennis. For the coaching staff, it’s the culmination of years of hard work and development. And for the Ohio State community, it’s a moment to celebrate a team that embodies the best of Buckeye spirit.

Regardless of the outcome, the Super Regional will be a showcase of elite collegiate tennis, with both teams leaving everything on the court. But for Ohio State, with its balanced roster, seasoned leadership, and hunger for greatness, this could be the moment they break through and take one giant step closer to an NCAA championship.

Let the racquets clash, the points unfold, and the champions rise. The road to the national title runs through the Super Regional—and the Buckeyes are ready.