Aumueller Advances to Sweet 16

FLUSHING, N.Y. – The 2011 USTA/ITA National Indoor Championships began on Thursday, and Nebraska’s Christopher Aumueller lost his first match of the day in doubles, but he fought back to win his singles match and move on to the sweet 16.

The Huskers doubles team of Aumueller and Benedikt Lindheim received a first round bye in the main draw. In the second round, Florida’s duo of Billy Federhofer and Nassim Slilam defeated Nebraska’s duo, 8-6. Florida’s squad defeated New Mexico’s Phil Anderson and Jadon Phillips, 8-4, in the first round.

“It was a tough loss for Benedikt [Lindheim] and Christopher [Aumueller] in doubles today losing a very close 8-6 match to a good Florida team,” head coach Kerry McDermott said. “Sometimes winning and losing comes down to one or two points here or there and just executing your shots. Tomorrow they hope to bounce back.”

The Huskers will play Friday in the consolation tournament when they go up against Ole Miss’ Johan Backstrom and Jonas Lutjen. The match will begin at 9:30 a.m.

In singles play at the National Indoor Championship, Nebraska’s No. 39 Christopher Aumueller defeated Duke’s No. 49 Chris Mengel in straight sets, 6-1, 7-6 (2). With the win Aumueller advanced to the round of 16 and will face Georgia Tech’s No. 85 Kevin King. Aumueller’s second round match will take place on Friday at 10:30 a.m.

“Christopher took his opportunity in singles today and played very well. He’s now in the round of 16 and ready to give it a go,” McDermott said. “We are anxious for him to continue to show his ability to believe in himself and take it one match at a time.”

The Huskers will be back in action on Friday when they continue play in the USTA/ITA Indoor Championships and kickoff play at the Gopher Invitation. First serve for Nebraska at the Gopher Invitational will be at 9 a.m. with singles play.