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Love and faith
of father in son When you're a young boy growing up its always fun to dream. Most boys like to share their thoughts with family members and friends. When Max Miryni was growing up he told his father he wanted to be professional tennis player. In 1988 Max decided to leave his hometown in Belarus to chase a professional tennis career. He decided to join my staff and I at the IMG/Bollettieri Sports Academy tapping his talent with top coaching and daily competition. During his time at the Academy he always lived in the shadow of Andre Agassi, Jim Courier, Tommy Haas, Monica Seles and Anna Kournikova. These players had great singles results while Max made his living on the doubles court. Throughout his young pro career he won a few mixed grand slam doubles titles but struggled with his singles. Late last summer he broke into the top 100 beginning a charge that still stands today. Just one day ago he played the match of the US Open losing to third seed Magnus Norman in a thrilling 5th set tiebreaker. Max's success has not come easy. Three years ago he decided he wanted to be more than just a doubles player but didn't have the funds to pay his expenses. His father, a Professor in Belarus wanted his son to have every chance so he washed dishes to pay for a trip to South America. Max played the lowest level of professional tennis and won US$9,000. His results allowed him to continue playing and gave his singles game confidence. Today he is top 50 in the world and was 1 point from advancing to the sweet 16 at the US Open. My staff and I are very proud that Max has made us a part of his success. During his time at the Academy he has been a tireless worker, a true gentlemen and a tremendous role model for the children. I believe Max will continue to have success as a singles and double player. And it goes to show you a PARENT can really make a difference. |