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Tempe, AZ – Working in collaboration with the ITA Student-Athlete Council, the Intercollegiate Tennis Association (“ITA”) is proud to spotlight another student-athlete in our monthly heritage month spotlights that aim to highlight the many diverse backgrounds that make up the sport of college tennis.
With March being Women’s History Month, the ITA is continuing to spotlight female student-athletes and coaches, allowing them to have a platform to share their stories and experiences. This week’s spotlight features Malak El Allami from Columbia University who has decided to pursue college tennis after a historic junior career.
As a freshman for the Lions, El Allami entered college tennis with a career high ITF Junior Ranking of No. 36 after finding success at all four Grand Slam Junior Championships. In 2023, El Allami became the first Moroccan girl to win a Junior Grand Slam singles match with a win at Wimbledon in 2023, and in 2024, was the first Moroccan to win a Junior Grand Slam Title taking home the girl’s doubles title alongside Emily Sartz-Lunde (Michigan).
During her first season with Columbia, El Allami quickly became accustomed to the college game competing in many of the fall’s biggest championships, including the ITA Division I Women’s All-American Championships. This spring, El Allami has primarily played at the No. 1 singles line for Columbia and has started the dual match season with a 6-3 singles record.
In this spotlight, El Allami will share a little bit about herself and some of her experiences as a female athlete in the tennis community and how she hopes to make an impact on future generations.
See what El Allami had to say in this spotlight below:
How did you start playing tennis? What inspired you to pursue tennis at this level?Tennis was always part of my life. My whole family played—my sister, my parents, even my friends—so it just felt natural for me to pick up a racket. As I got older, I fell in love with the sport and the competition, and I wanted to see how far I could go. I feel really grateful for the journey so far and for everything tennis has given me.
Who were your role models or biggest supporters along the way? How did they influence your tennis career?My family, without a doubt. They’ve been there for me in the highs and lows, always believing in me no matter what. I also have to give credit to my federation—they’ve been helping and supporting me along the way, giving me opportunities to compete and improve. I’m really grateful for everyone who’s been part of this journey.
Did you face any challenges as a woman pursuing sports at a high level? If so, how did you overcome them?Honestly, I never felt like I had to fight more because I was a woman—I just had to fight as a tennis player. The biggest challenges came from the sport itself, especially during rough periods when results weren’t going my way. But that’s just part of the game. You have to keep pushing, stay patient, and surround yourself with the right people.
What has been the most rewarding part of your college tennis experience so far?Being part of a team. Tennis is usually such an individual sport, so playing for something bigger than just myself—representing Columbia and competing alongside my teammates—has been really special. I feel lucky to experience this kind of team spirit.
Did you have a favorite female athlete you looked up to as a child? How did seeing this representation inspire you to pursue sports?I looked up to Ons Jabeur. She’s Arab like me, and seeing her succeed on the biggest stages makes me believe that it’s possible for me too. She represents what’s achievable, and that’s really inspiring.
What advice would you give to young girls who dream of playing college tennis?Keep believing in yourself, even when things aren’t going your way. There will be ups and downs, but if you stay committed and surround yourself with good people, you’ll get to where you want to be. And always be grateful for the people who support you—they make a huge difference.
What are some ways that female athletes can be better supported in collegiate athletics? Are there any specific changes or initiatives you’d like to see in college athletics to uplift female student-athletes?More visibility and equal opportunities. The talent and dedication are there—it’s just about making sure female athletes get the same resources, recognition, and support.
What legacy do you hope to leave for future women’s tennis players at your school or in the sport overall?I hope to show that no matter where you come from, you can make it if you put in the work. If my journey inspires someone else to chase their dreams, that would mean everything to me. And above all, I want to leave a legacy of gratitude—for the sport, for the people who support us, and for the opportunities we get to compete and grow.
