QUEBEC CITY, Canada — Former University of Kentucky men's tennis player Liam Draxl scored the biggest victory of his professional career Friday, defeating world No. 32 Arthur Rinderknech of France in straight sets at the Davis Cup qualifiers, according to UK Athletics.

Draxl, competing for Canada, dispatched Rinderknech 6-2, 7-5 in one hour and 44 minutes of play, breaking serve three times while preventing his opponent from converting any of three break point opportunities. The Canadian served at 73 percent accuracy, compared to Rinderknech's 63 percent, controlling the tempo throughout the match.

The victory gives Davis Cup qualifying momentum to the Canadian team heading into Saturday's matches. Teammate Felix Auger-Aliassime faced Quentin Halys of France in the night session, with Draxl scheduled to play Halys on Saturday afternoon at 5 p.m. ET.

Draxl's breakthrough result represents a significant milestone in his transition from college tennis to the professional ranks. The University of Kentucky Wildcats program has produced numerous professional competitors, and Draxl's upset victory adds to the program's legacy of developing elite talent.