Michael Zheng, a 21-year-old college tennis sensation from Columbia University, produced one of the biggest upsets of the Australian Open's opening round on Sunday. The American defeated his compatriot Sebastian Korda, a former quarter-finalist, in a thrilling five-set battle: 6-4, 6-4, 3-6, 6-7, 6-3. Zheng now faces France's Corentin Moutet in the second round.
Despite his victory, Zheng is unable to keep the full AU$225,000 (£112,000) prize money due to NCAA regulations that cap earnings at $10,000 (£7,500) for college athletes. The rules surrounding prize money have caused confusion, with Zheng admitting uncertainty. 'I feel like it's gotten blurrier than it used to be in some ways in terms of the line between turning pro and staying in college,' he said.
Zheng, who is studying psychology and has one more semester at Columbia, intends to return to school after his run in Melbourne. He plans to consult his head coach to clarify whether he can accept the prize money without jeopardising his eligibility. 'I've heard rumours that I'm allowed to take it because it's my final spring term. But I want to double check,' he explained.
A legal challenge against the prize money cap, led by fellow NCAA tennis star Reese Brantmeier, is ongoing but will not go to trial until later this year. Current rules permit college athletes to sign name, image and likeness deals but restrict prize money. Zheng, a two-time NCAA champion, had previously considered turning professional after his first title but chose to complete his studies first.
