2025 Bedford Cup Recap: FSU and UNF Host Florida’s Top Collegiate Talent

The men’s Bedford Cup was hosted on the campus of Florida State University from September 26–28, 2025. Singles and doubles draws included players from FSU, FGCU, Stetson, and UCF. Although the first day was moved indoors due to rain, all scheduled matches were completed, and the remaining two days featured a full slate of action on the varsity outdoor courts.

With a full 32-player main draw, back draw, and doubles bracket, fans were treated to a weekend of high-level tennis. FSU delivered a strong showing, sending three singles players into the main draw semifinals. In the final, Azariah Rusher defeated teammate Mohammad Alkotop 6–3, 6–3 to capture the singles title.

Above: FSU's Azariah Rusher. Photo credit: FSU.

The two finalists then teamed up in doubles, where they went on to win the championship as well — defeating Jonathan Baron and Tanner Povey of FGCU in a tight 8–6 final.

The women’s Bedford Cup followed the next weekend at the UNF Tennis Complex in Jacksonville. For the second consecutive year, play was interrupted by weather, but despite the rain, over two full days of spirited tennis took place — including several exciting night matches.

Players from Division I programs throughout Florida competed, including UNF, UF, FIU, FAU, Stetson, and UM. Although the final day of the tournament was rained out, between the three divisions of main draws, back draws, and doubles, all players had multiple opportunities to compete. No one left disappointed with the level of competition.

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Written by Ed Jagger, Youth Tennis Foundation (YTF). Top photo: University of North Florida.