June 28, 2006

WIMBLEDON, ENGLAND - Former University of Houston tennis standout Sarah Borwell notched an impressive 6-3, 6-7 (4), 6-4 win over Marta Domachowska of Poland in the opening round of Wimbledon Wednesday afternoon at the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club.

After splitting the first two sets, Borwell battled through a tight final set getting a crucial hold at 4-4 and match-clinching break to pick up her first career grand slam victory. She lost to in the opening round last year.

"This is a great win, and we're very happy for her," Houston head coach John Severance said. "I know she has been working hard, and we'll be cheering her on the rest of the way."

Borwell was 2002 Conference USA Player of the Year and was ranked in the Top 15 of the nation throughout her senior season. She also earned C-USA All-Decade honors in 2005.

The Middlesborough, England native advances to play No. 19 seed Ana Ivanovic of Serbia and Montenegro Thursday afternoon in the second round. She is also in the main doubles draw paired with fellow countrywoman Jane O'Donoghue.