ITA CEO David Mullins recently voiced concern over the growing influx of older international athletes into college tennis and other sports. He emphasized that the issue is not confined to tennis but reflects a broader trend across multiple disciplines like Olympic sports and Basketball.
ITA CEO David Mullins Opens Up on the Criticism of Pro Players’ Inclusion in NCAA Tennis
Mullins’ comments come amid mounting criticism over professionals from the tour ranks entering college tennis. Last month, 23-year-old Italian pro Lorenzo Claverie committed to the University of Florida for the 2026 season, a move that drew widespread backlash from many, including Coco Gauff’s former coach, Brad Gilbert.
The former World No. 4 had questioned why international players can enter college tennis under conditions that appear more restrictive for Americans.
Amid the backlash, Intercollegiate Tennis Association CEO David Mullins addressed the issue, stressing that the trend extends beyond college tennis and reflects a broader pattern seen across multiple sports.
“I think it does. I think all Olympics sports are dealing with this right now. Not just Olympics sports, we have Australian kickers coming into football, 26-27 years old,” he said.
Mullins said older international athletes are entering U.S. college sports across disciplines, not just tennis, citing track and field as an example. He argued the trend reflects poorly on the sport and added that many coaches feel pressured into accepting such athletes.
“I am giving examples, I am just saying it’s not just tennis. Track and field have 26-year-old Ethiopians coming in. And so, I think, It’s not a good look for our sport. And I know in speaking with coaches, they don’t like doing this. They don’t like agreeing to the demands of these student athletes,” he said.
Mullins further explained how older athletes demand limited college participation, financial support, scholarships, and funded pro events. He said coaches dislike these negotiations but feel compelled to accept them due to the competitive environment and pressure from athletic directors to contend for championships.
“Hey, I just want to play, you know three dual matches in the conference tournament or the NCAA and I want to get paid this and want a scholarship and I want you to take me to, 10 pro events and pay for it. Coaches hate having that conversation. They hate agreeing to it. They don’t want to but they feel like, well this is the current environment and I still have to win as a coach. The athletic directors expecting me to challenge for a national championship. So I’m gonna agree to these terms,” he added.
While international players have been widely accommodated within the system, American players continue to face comparatively stricter eligibility rules. Current eligibility rules allow many international players to delay college while earning limited prize money on tour.
American players, by contrast, are reportedly held to higher standards, leading many to forfeit their eligibility or abandon college tennis after unsuccessful professional stints.