FAIRFIELD, Conn. – Arizona Men's Tennis standout Jay Friend continues to make waves on the professional stage, advancing into the main draw of the Fairfield Challenger after two strong qualifying victories. Friend opened play with a commanding 6-4, 6-1 win over F. Lechno-Wasiutynski before battling past American S. Johnson in a hard-fought three-setter, 6-3, 4-6, 6-4, to secure his place in the main draw.

The Fairfield Challenger main draw begins today, where Friend will face A. Shah at 12:20 p.m. MST.

Currently ranked No. 722 in the ATP world rankings, Friend is looking to continue his momentum after making history earlier this fall by becoming Arizona's first-ever ITA All-American Champion.

"Jay continues to prove himself on every stage," said Arizona Head Coach Clancy Shields. "He's showing the resilience, competitiveness, and talent that make him one of the brightest young players in college and professional tennis."

Friend's run at the Fairfield Challenger is another step in his rapid development as he balances collegiate success with opportunities on the ATP Tour.