World No. 719 Oliver Tarvet Qualifies for Wimbledon, Faces Prize Money Ban

Oliver Tarvet, despite his world ranking of No. 719, has achieved qualification for Wimbledon but is unable to claim his full potential prize money.

The British player, considered an underdog, accomplished a significant upset by defeating world No. 144 Alexander Blockx in the final qualifying round with a score of 6-3, 3-6, 6-2, 6-1.

The 21-year-old Tarvet secured this remarkable victory despite it being his first match played over the best of five sets.

The British No. 33 repeatedly and oddly shouted the name `Gareth` during the match, explaining it was a tribute to a football player, possibly referencing figures like Bale or Southgate.

Tarvet, who received a wildcard for the qualifiers, commented: “It’s connected to a soccer player… based on his surname. I can`t reveal who, but you might be able to figure it out…”

His qualification makes him the 23rd British player to enter the singles draw for the tournament.

For reaching the first round of Wimbledon, the tennis player would typically be set to earn a substantial £66,000 in prize money.

However, he will not receive the majority of this sum because of his status as a student-athlete in the United States.

Tarvet is currently studying at the University of San Diego and is one year away from graduating.

Due to these regulations, he is limited to claiming only £7,300 annually from prize money.

This amount is designated to cover entry fees and other associated expenses.

Tarvet lightheartedly remarked that the money he can claim might be used to cover his travel costs to Wimbledon (SW19).

He stated: “It`s a bit awkward because I need to cover many expenses, and I really want to return to the University of San Diego for my fourth year. Their support has been incredible, and I`m very grateful. I aim to finish my fourth year there and make a significant impact on US college history. I can claim up to $10,000, so perhaps I`ll fly my coach home on a private jet.”

Tarvet`s path to Wimbledon included impressive victories over higher-ranked players such as Terence Atmane and Alexis Galarneau in the qualifying rounds.

He added: “There are many emotions, but primarily just happiness. Qualifying for Wimbledon has been my dream since childhood.”

The situation could become even more challenging for Tarvet if he were to miraculously win the tournament, where the champion receives £3 million.

Tarvet is not the only player who has faced restrictions on their prize money.

For instance, in 2024, Australian player Maya Joint had to forgo £145,000 in prize money.

This occurred when she reached the second round of the US Open while competing as an amateur student at the University of Texas.