AUBURN, Ala. – Auburn incoming men's tennis freshman Nicholas Heng took home the USTA National Clay Court Championship for boys ages 18 and under. Heng was crowned champion after the eight-day event came to a close Sunday afternoon in Delray, Fla.
The Madison, Ala., native, last year's runner-up, said he was able to calm his nerves more in this year's event. "I was so nervous and anxious last year, but this time I just kind of freed up and played my game and that's when I'm at my best," Heng said.
Heng won six of his seven matches in the event in straight sets, capping it off by defeating Jelani Sarr 6-4, 6-4 in the final match Sunday to claim the coveted gold ball.
"The nerves, the situation, the feelings, I mean it was nuts," Heng said after claiming the championship. "Being in a final just feels so surreal, especially in a tournament like this. It was nerve-racking, but I just tried to focus on the now. It means so much to have done a little better this year. [Saturday] I got a little bit lucky, and to be able to be in this moment playing for the gold [ball], it was so unreal. It's a massive relief. If I lost again in the final, I'd probably go crazy. It will be a sweet ride back home."
Heng, who was ranked the No. 1 recruit in the state of Alabama in the class of 2023, signed with the Tigers in November and enrolled at Auburn this summer.
"Nicholas' addition to our roster will make an immediate impact on our team in singles and doubles," Auburn head coach Bobby Reynolds said at the time of Heng's signing. "His enthusiasm and fight on the court will be a draw for all Auburn fans to witness. We are excited for Nicholas to join our team in the fall and represent Auburn for years to come."
