Anderson Takes JSM Challenger Singles Title, Ram & Reynolds Earn Doubles Crown

Kevin Anderson (pictured) has won the 2008 JSM Challenger Singles Title. The South African and former Illini dominated from the outset and defeated Kevin Kim 6-2, 6-4. After losing his serve in the first game of the second set, Anderson kept his composure and quickly broke back. Later in the set and back on serve, he faced two break points, however used four consecutive aces to hold serve and keep the momentum in the match. After a late break, Anderson was able to hold serve to earn the title. The victory makes him the second former Illinois Tennis player to win in Champaign-Urbana. Amer Delic won the singles title at the Atkins Tennis Center in 2006.

In doubles, the fans were treated to an entertaining match between No. 1 seeds, Rajeev Ram and Bobby Reynolds and a team from France comprised of Oliver Charroin and Nicolas Tourte. After a slow start, Raj and Bobby steadily improved their play throughout the match. The No. 1 seeds dropped the first set but rebounded to force a third set match tiebreak. After going down an early mini break, Ram and Reynolds roared back to win 3-6, 6-3, 10-8. For Ram, it is the third doubles title at the JSM Challenger, the most tournament wins by any player at the Challenger of Champaign-Urbana.

On behalf of the players and the tournament staff, thank you to all the fans, volunteers, officials, and sponsors who make the JSM Challenger possible. It was an exciting week of world class tennis and we look forward to seeing everyone back at the Atkins Tennis Center in 2009.