Open Extended Reactions

Matthew Forbes, a tennis prodigy from Raleigh, North Carolina, has earned a spot in the prestigious US Open later this month after winning the USTA 18-under singles boys national title. However, due to NCAA rules, Forbes will not be able to cash in on the tournament’s substantial prize money if he enrolls at Michigan State University this year as planned.

The NCAA’s restrictions limit Forbes to reimbursement for actual and necessary expenses incurred during his US Open participation, such as meals, lodging, coaching, and equipment. Despite this limitation, he is eligible to earn compensation in college through name, image, and likeness (NIL) deals.

In 2021, the NCAA lifted its ban on athletes monetizing their name, image, and likeness through endorsements and sponsorships. This change has paved the way for athletes like Forbes to potentially earn significant revenue while maintaining their amateur status. Additionally, starting next year, the NCAA and conferences have agreed to amend rules to allow schools to share up to $21 million in athletic revenue with their athletes, further expanding the potential for athlete compensation.

Forbes’s qualification for the US Open marks a historic moment for Michigan State University, as he is the first active tennis player in the university’s history to earn a wild-card entry into the Grand Slam tournament. Forbes’s achievement is a testament to his exceptional talent and determination, and it has garnered widespread attention and anticipation for his performance at the US Open.

While Forbes will not receive the full prize money from the tournament, his participation in the US Open provides him with a valuable opportunity to gain experience, compete against the world’s best tennis players, and enhance his visibility. It also opens up the potential for future endorsement and sponsorship deals, which could supplement his earnings and help him pursue his tennis career after college.

Overall, the US Open presents both challenges and opportunities for Matthew Forbes. While NCAA rules restrict his financial compensation, he has the potential to capitalize on NIL deals and the tournament’s platform to advance his career and secure his financial future in tennis.