Englishman Paul Jubb has gained an entry into this year’s Wimbledon after winning the NCAA men’s title while representing the University of South Carolina.
The 19-year old won the American college title in Orlando last week, after beating Nuno Borges of Mississippi State in straight sets, thus becoming the first British player ever to win the prestigious event, won by such legends such as John McEnroe and Jimmy Conners.
Typically, the winner of the tournament gains entry as a wildcard into the US Open of the same year, however, Jubb is ineligible, as he is not a US citizen.
Wimbledon duly stepped in and rewarded him the chance to play at his home grand slam.
The player who was born in Yorkshire began playing the game at Primary school and showed immense improvement as he moved up the age groups, culminating in him winning the under-16 British title.
Jubb was spotted by a scout from America called Josh Goffi, while he was in England. It was a chance meeting, the he went up to Hull and saw Jubb training, was so impressed by his talent and offered him a chance to enhance his skills in the US on the collegiate circuit.
He currently holds a ranking of 579, won his first match at Nottingham recently, which is a second level Challenger event during the grass court season.
The Brit shared his joy on social media, as he took to Twitter and said:
“Beyond happy to play at my first @Wimbledon and be given this amazing opportunity. Thanks to the @LTA for all the support and to the everyone else on the journey with me.”
Jubb will finish his final year at the University of South Carolina, meaning keeping his amateur status and forgoing the 45000 pounds he would have collected in prize money.
The third major of the year starts at the All England and Croquet Club on July 1.
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