In an extraordinary display of academic commitment, American tennis sensation Michael Zheng faces the unprecedented dilemma of relinquishing a substantial six-figure prize from the Australian Open to preserve his collegiate athletic status. The 21-year-old Columbia University psychology major delivered one of the tournament’s most stunning upsets by defeating compatriot Sebastian Korda in a gripping five-set match during the opening round.
Zheng’s remarkable journey through three qualifying matches culminated in his main draw victory against the 23rd-seeded Korda, showcasing exceptional skill and determination. However, his status as a student-athlete bound by NCAA regulations imposes strict limitations on monetary awards from professional competitions. The governing body caps such earnings at a maximum of $10,000 annually for amateur athletes maintaining their eligibility.
This restriction means Zheng must forfeit approximately $150,000 in guaranteed prize money from his first-round triumph, with potential earnings escalating significantly should he advance further in the tournament. The rising star has just one semester remaining to complete his degree and has consciously prioritized academic completion before transitioning fully to professional tennis.
When questioned about potential loopholes or alternative arrangements, Zheng expressed cautious adherence to the rules, stating he would not risk compromising his standing or ‘getting in any trouble’ for the financial windfall. His situation highlights the complex intersection of collegiate athletics and professional sports, where aspiring athletes must navigate difficult financial and career decisions.