University of Arkansas will discontinue men’s and women’s tennis programs

FAYETTEVILLE — The University of Arkansas it will discontinue its men’s and women’s tennis programs at the conclusion of the 2026 spring season. A school spokesperson sent out a press release with the announcement on Friday, April 24.

The university said that the decision follows a recommendation from Athletic Director Hunter Yurachek, which was approved by Chancellor Charles Robinson. UA System President Jay B. Silvera and the Board of Trustees were notified of the decision.

Current tennis athletes will have their scholarships honored through the completion of their current degree programs if they choose to remain at Arkansas.

“After considerable reflection and thoughtful discussion, we have made the very difficult decision to discontinue our men’s and women’s tennis programs,” Yurachek said. “We understand the disappointment and emotion this news will bring to many. The landscape of college athletics continues to evolve, requiring us to make challenging choices as we balance competitive opportunities, resources and the long-term sustainability of our department.”

The student-athletes will also continue to have access to all support services available.

Following this change, Arkansas will sponsor 17 sports. There will be 10 women’s teams and seven on the men’s side.

According to the press release, the primary factor considered was the level of resources available to allocate to the tennis programs.

The athletic department concluded it would be unable to provide the level of financial investment necessary for the tennis programs to consistently compete in the SEC and nationally. The department also approximates an annual budget allocation of $2.5 million on the two tennis programs, with increases expected in future years.

All funds will be broadly reinvested across the athletic department, and there are no plans to discontinue any other sports.

Jackson Fuller covers Arkansas football, basketball and baseball for the Southwest Times Record, part of the USA TODAY Network. Reach him at jfuller@usatodayco.com or follow him @jacksonfuller16 on X, formerly known as Twitter. 

This article originally appeared on Fort Smith Times Record: University of Arkansas will cut tennis programs following 2026 seasons