James Blake, Tennis

He may never have won a major title, but that hasn't stopped James Blake from ranking 23rd in the world. Tennis magazine calls him the Tiger Woods of his sport and the first African American to be taken seriously on the pro tour since Arthur Ashe (Blake's role model). Born in Yonkers, NY, this dreadlocked sex symbol is the second son of an English mother and American father. He grew up playing tennis in Harlem Junior Tennis League, and now calls Tampa, FL, his home. But, life wasn't always fun and games for the star. He endured the confines of a back-brace to treat scoliosis for four years during high school, all the while keeping his grades up and his sport solid. His academic excellence got him accepted to Harvard, where he studied economics until turned pro in 1998. Currently he's single and living with his tennis-playing big bro, Thomas, Jr. (a Harvard grad, who turned pro shortly after). Doubles anyone?

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