GRAND FORKS, N.D. — Drake men's tennis saw its 14-match winning streak come to an end Saturday afternoon with a 4–3 loss to North Dakota at the Choice Health and Fitness Tennis Center. The Bulldogs fell to 14–3 overall, while the Fighting Hawks improved to 13–6.

North Dakota gained early control of the match by sweeping all three doubles contests to secure the opening point. Drake's top doubles team of Adan Tarquino and Ulysse Verrando, which entered the match with a team-best 5–2 record, fell 6–3 at the No. 1 position. The pairing of Alan Gonzalez and Ben Johnson dropped a tight 7–6 (7–3) decision at No. 2 doubles, while Alex Yeager and Arin Menon were edged in a tiebreak at No. 3.

Despite the early deficit, Drake responded with strong performances in singles play, winning three matches and pushing the contest to the final courts.

Sam Melaga remained unbeaten on the season, improving to 12–0 with a straight-set 6–3, 7–5 victory at No. 3 singles. Jose Hernandez added another point for the Bulldogs at No. 5, earning a 6–3, 6–4 win to move to 9–2 in dual play.

Arin Menon also continued his strong spring campaign, improving to 12–1 with a 7–6, 6–4 victory at the No. 6 position.

North Dakota secured the deciding points with wins at the top, No. 2 and No. 4 singles positions. Christian Winstead dropped a 6–2, 7–5 decision at No. 1, while Alan Gonzalez fell in straight sets at No. 2. Ben Johnson battled to three sets at No. 4 before coming up just short in a 6–1, 6–7 (7–9), 6–4 loss.

The loss marked Drake's first defeat since early February and highlighted the importance of doubles play, where the Bulldogs were unable to gain early momentum.

Drake will look to bounce back as it continues its road trip with upcoming competition later this week.