The British tennis player Oliver Tarvet is not allowed to collect his earned prize money in the Wimbledon qualifiers. The world number 719 plays college tennis in the United States, and university rules do not allow that.
The 21-year-old Tarvet caused a stir in recent days by winning three qualifying matches and qualifying for the main tournament. He had received a wildcard for the preliminary rounds of the prestigious grass tournament in London.
English media highlighted the story, which was reminiscent of the romantic story of Marcus Willis in 2016. He reached the main tournament as an amateur, where he played against Roger Federer in the second round.
Tarvet plays for the University of San Diego and tries to earn points for the world ranking alongside his studies. He is active in the so-called Future tournaments, the third level of professional tennis. Dozens of tennis players compete there weekly for a total prize pool of often only 15,000 dollars (almost 13,000 euros).
The number 719 was allowed to participate in the Wimbledon qualifiers for the first time and celebrated his debut with three wins. In the last preliminary round, he surprised the Belgian Alexander Blockx in four sets.
“There are many emotions, but the most important is just happiness. Ever since I was a little kid, this has been my dream,” Tarvet told English media after reaching the main tournament. “I’ve been coming here every year since I was nine, and it felt so far away to ever be on Wimbledon myself. And now it’s reality.”
Check of 77,500 euros
For the players in the first round of the main draw, a check of 66,000 British pounds is ready, which is about 77,500 euros. But Tarvet is not allowed to collect that amount, no matter how well he can use the money.
“It’s a bit annoying because I have to cover a lot of expenses, and I really want to go back to the University of San Diego to finish my fourth year,” said Tarvet, a Communication student. Students are seen as amateur athletes in the US.
“What they have done for me is just incredible. I am so grateful. I can claim up to $10,000, so I might fly my coach home in a private jet.” Tarvet is allowed to collect prize money to cover his expenses and not make a profit. The remainder goes directly to the National Collegiate Athletic Association.
Tarvet has only managed to earn a little more than 13,000 euros in his early career. This year, he was only able to add 2,500 euros in prize money before Wimbledon.
In the draw for the Wimbledon main tournament, Tarvet was paired with Swiss Leandro Riedi, also a qualifier. If he wins, he will likely face title holder Carlos Alcaraz in the second round. Good for the poster, but not for the wallet.