British tennis player Oliver Tarvet has achieved a remarkable feat by qualifying for Wimbledon's main draw, becoming the first male Brit to come through qualifying at Roehampton since Alex Ward in 2017.
The 21-year-old world number 719 stunned higher-ranked Alexander Blockx in Thursday's final qualifying round.
However, the University of San Diego student faces a bitter financial reality.
Despite earning £66,000 for reaching the first round at SW19, NCAA regulations restrict college athletes to claiming just $10,000 (£7,290) annually from prize money.
Oliver Tarvet must give up a whopping £59,000 in prize money
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This means Tarvet must forfeit nearly £59,000 of his hard-earned winnings.
The NCAA's stringent regulations permit college athletes to retain only $10,000 in profit annually, plus expenses incurred during tournaments.
For Tarvet, who has impressed as a top-five Division One singles player in this year's NCAA Championships, this represents a loss of approximately £59,000.
The young Brit has already devised a creative approach to maximise his limited allowance.
"I can claim up to $10,000 so I might be flying my coach on a private jet at home," Tarvet revealed.
Despite the financial constraints, he remains committed to completing his fourth year at the University of San Diego, expressing gratitude for their support.
On Friday, Tarvet spoke candidly about the situation.
"I've worked hard to get this money. I don't feel like it's undeserved the money that I've got," he stated.
The Englishman called for reform whilst acknowledging the delicate nature of his position.
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Oliver Tarvet beat Alexander Blockx in Thursday's final qualifying round to reach Wimbledon
PA
"I think it would be good to see a change in the rules of the NCAA, but at the same time, I don't want to get involved. It's not really my place," he explained.
However, Tarvet's frustration was evident as he concluded: "But I've done well this week. I think I deserve this money."
Tarvet is not alone in facing these restrictions. Earlier this year, American college player Reese Brantmeier launched a class action lawsuit against the NCAA over the prize money limitations.
She was joined by Australian Maya Joint, who forfeited more than $200,000 (£145,000) after reaching the US Open fourth round last year.
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Wimbledon is due to commence on Monday, June 30GettyThe legal challenge highlights growing discontent amongst college athletes competing professionally whilst maintaining their amateur status.
For Tarvet, achieving his childhood dream of playing at the Championships remains paramount.
"Ever since I was a little kid, going to the Championships when you are nine, seeing the pros. It's always been a big dream of mine," he reflected.
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