In this article, we tell you more about student-athlete Can Yaglikici. In addition, at the bottom of this article you will find the video in which Can tells more about himself.

Sports: Men’s Tennis
Entry semester: Fall 2026

This is Can Yaglikici, a 17-year-old tennis player with an unusual background. Can was born in California, United States, and has both American and Turkish citizenship. His roots are in Turkey, where his parents are from. When he was 10 years old, the family moved to the Netherlands and Can has lived in Arnhem ever since. He is currently taking an international English curriculum at an IB school, which has given him a broad and international view of the world.

His athletic journey began at an early age. At age five, he started skiing and was even included in the school ski team in Turkey. Yet his true passion lay elsewhere. Tennis was in his family – both his parents and grandparents loved to be on the court. So it was a natural step for Can to pick up the racket himself. Since then, tennis has become a regular part of his life.

Can is a real go-getter. He challenges himself daily – not only on the field, but also in the gym – to develop himself further. His mentality is what sets him apart: he is competitive, disciplined and a real team player. In the Netherlands, he plays tournaments at both national and international level and competes in the first division. His style of play is aggressive, with a powerful serve.

His ambition for the future? In America, Can wants to take his tennis skills to the next level while also growing academically. His interest is in studying economics and finance. His ultimate goal is to reach the highest level as a tennis player. And if that doesn’t work out, he wants to build a successful career in finance – with tennis as his enduring passion.

What Can brings to America? An athlete with a strong competitive spirit, a sharp mindset and a professional ethic. He comes not only to develop himself, but also to take his team to the next level.

“For me, tennis isn’t just a sport, it’s a lifestyle.”

Want to get to know Can better? Check out the video below where he introduces himself!