Michael Zheng

Michael Zheng Bio

Michael Zheng is an American tennis player born on January 27, 2004, in Montville, New Jersey. Currently a senior at Columbia University, he has reached a career-high ATP singles ranking of No. 180 as of October 13, 2025. Notably, he became the first athlete from Columbia to win the NCAA singles championship in 2024, making history as the first Ivy League player to achieve back-to-back championships in 2025. Zheng also earned recognition as the Ivy League Player of the Year and Rookie of the Year. Raised in New Jersey, Zheng won the state singles tennis championship in 2021 and has shown remarkable prowess in both singles and doubles competitions.

Early Life and Background

Michael Zheng was born and raised in Montville, New Jersey. He attended Delbarton School, where he began to showcase his talent for tennis. During his time there, he won the state singles tennis championship in 2021, which marked a significant milestone in his early athletic career. To accommodate his travel demands for tennis, Zheng transferred to Dwight Global Online School for his senior year. This decision allowed him to balance his academic responsibilities while pursuing his passion for the sport.

Path to Tennis

Zheng’s journey in tennis began at a young age, where he developed his skills through local competitions and training. His dedication and talent led him to compete at higher levels, including junior tournaments. In 2022, he reached the final of the Wimbledon boys’ singles tournament, losing to Mili Poljičak. This achievement highlighted his potential and set the stage for his collegiate career. Upon entering Columbia University, Zheng quickly made a name for himself in the collegiate tennis scene, becoming the first first-year student athlete at the school to be named an ITA All-American.

Michael Zheng Career

Early Career (2021-2023)

Zheng’s early career was marked by significant achievements, including his victory at the state singles championship in New Jersey. His performance at the collegiate level further established him as a rising star in tennis. In the 2022-23 season, he became the first Ivy League tennis player to win the Ivy League Player of the Year, Rookie of the Year, and First-Team All-Ivy honors in both singles and doubles.

Breakthrough (2024-2025)

Zheng’s breakthrough came in 2024 when he won the NCAA Division I tennis men’s singles championship, becoming the first NCAA singles champion from Columbia since 1906. He continued to excel in 2025, successfully defending his title and becoming the first back-to-back NCAA champion since Steve Johnson in 2011 and 2012. These accomplishments solidified his status as a top contender in collegiate tennis and garnered attention from the professional circuit.

Notable Works and Milestones

Zheng’s signature achievements include winning the NCAA singles championship in 2024 and 2025, along with his recognition as Ivy League Player of the Year and Rookie of the Year in 2023. His remarkable journey from junior tennis to collegiate success has made him a notable figure in the sport.

Michael Zheng Award Nominations

Throughout his career, Michael Zheng has received several nominations and accolades, particularly during his time at Columbia University. His achievements in the Ivy League and NCAA competitions have set him apart as a leading player in collegiate tennis.

Michael Zheng Awards Won

Michael Zheng has won numerous awards during his tennis career. He was recognized as the Ivy League Player of the Year and Rookie of the Year in 2023, and he made history by winning the NCAA singles championship in both 2024 and 2025. These awards reflect his exceptional talent and dedication to the sport.