SURPRISE, Ariz. – Gonzaga women's tennis senior Sophie Whittle was forced to retire in the first set of her consolation semifinal match at the Oracle ITA National Fall Championships Saturday morning at the Surprise Tennis & Racquet Complex in Surprise, Ariz.
 
"I was really proud of Sophie during this entire tournament," head women's tennis coach D.J. Gurule said. "It is unfortunate that she had to retire today, but I think it is for the best. We are looking forward to getting healthy."


Whittle trailed No. 61 Chiara Lommer of Michigan 5-0 in the first set before soreness in her shoulder resulted in the early exit.
 
"Overall, Sophie's play this fall season led to so much confidence," Gurule said. "Not just her own play, but for our team as a whole. We are unbelievably excited for the spring season, and I know we will be ready come January."
 
Whittle and the entire women's tennis team returns to the court against Idaho Jan. 19 at The Stevens Center. That date is subject to change.