Matthew Emery of Lexington, Ky., has enrolled at the University of Kentucky and willforego his senior year of high school eligibility to compete for the Wildcats this spring, CoachDennis Emery announced on Friday.

The 17-year-old Emery currently ranks 16th in the world for Boys 18 and Under and is theNo. 2 American in the world rankings. He also ranks 24th in doubles. Emery is currently inAustralia with the U.S. National Team in preparation for the Australian Open, the fourth GrandSlam event he has competed in.

“Matt is the top American recruit to come to UK since John Yancey,” Coach Emery said.”AT 17, he is probably the youngest player in Division I tennis this year. With his biggroundstrokes, athleticism and competitive nature, he should be a big-time player in the nearfuture.”

] Emery completes one of the nation’s top recruiting classes of Karim Benmansour, RahimEsmail and Jesse Witten. Emery will begin play with the Cats upon his return to the Bluegrass.