Team Selkirk’s Lauren Stratman reached new heights in her singles career on Thursday, qualifying for her first-ever Championship Sunday at the Los Angeles Open. Stratman has been an increasingly powerful force on the tour since turning pro in 2020, with much of her prior success coming in doubles.
Stratman’s path to Championship Sunday at Los Cab was no easy feat. The No. 3 seed was tested early on when she played rising PPA Australia star and MLP Australia No. 1 draft pick, Emilia Schmidt, in the Round of 16. After losing the first game 4-11, Stratman was able to hold Schmidt off 11-7 in both the second and third games.
Stratman then faced off against big hitters Christine Maddox and Kaitlyn Christian – two decorated former collegiate tennis players. Stratman herself came from a stellar collegiate tennis career, so she is no stranger to the dynamic playstyles Maddox and Christian bring to the table. A big part of Stratman’s success in both rounds was her precise ball placement, often putting her opponents on the run or completely out of place. Despite some slightly windy conditions, Stratman’s consistent and well-placed serves also set her up for solid plays.
After defeating Maddox 11-9, 11-8 and Christian 11-2, 11-7, Stratman will clash with No. 5 seed Brooke Buckner in the finals.
Be sure to tune in on Championship Sunday to see Lauren Stratman play for gold!
