In a sport where matches can hinge on a handful of points, Michigan State sophomore Matthew Forbes is proving he thrives when the margins are the thinnest, soon turning into one of the most reliable closers in college tennis. And this week, the Big Ten took notice.
Forbes was named Big Ten Men’s Tennis Player of the Week following a defining weekend for the Spartans, highlighted by a dramatic 4–3 upset over top-ranked Ohio State. The victory marked Michigan State’s first win over the Buckeyes in over two decades and snapped one of the longest-standing home conference streaks in the country.
At the center of it all was Forbes.
Competing in the top singles spot, the Raleigh, North Carolina native delivered the match-clinching point on Sunday, battling past No. 22 Jack Anthrop in a three-set thriller. With the match tied and momentum hanging in the balance, Forbes held his composure to secure a statement win — one that not only sealed the upset but reinforced his growing reputation as one of the nation’s top players.
The weekend hadn’t started any quieter for him either.
On Friday, Forbes opened conference play against Penn State men’s tennis with a gritty straight-set win over Michael Wright, 7-5, 7-6 (11-9), showcasing his ability to navigate pressure moments. Across both matches, Forbes reflected on his mental discipline and ability to execute under pressure that have defined his season.
Now ranked No. 11 nationally in the ITA standings, Forbes has emerged as a cornerstone of a Michigan State squad that sits undefeated in conference play. Whether in singles or doubles, he has consistently taken on — and beaten — ranked opponents, elevating the Spartans’ competitive ceiling.
Moreover, in doubles, Forbes has built a strong and increasingly reliable partnership with Aristotelis Thanos. The duo has developed a rhythm rooted in complementary styles—Forbes’ controlled baseline play paired with Thanos’ aggressive net presence. Together, they’ve taken on top pairs across the country, contributing crucial points and setting the tone early in matches.
His latest honor marks the second time in his career that he has earned Big Ten Player of the Week recognition, further cementing his impact early in his collegiate career.
For Michigan State, the significance of the weekend stretches beyond a single accolade. The win in Columbus ended a drought that dated back to 1998 on the road and 1999 overall against Ohio State, signaling a shift in the program’s trajectory.
He also becomes the third Spartan this season to earn weekly conference honors, joining seniors Ozan Baris and David Saye, highlighting the depth and momentum within the program.
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