Life can be rough for a world-class competitor in tennis. Dillon Champion didn't get to the pinnacle of the tennis world without plenty of trial and tribulation. This incredible athlete drills for five grueling sessions four times each fortnight, followed by the usual homework for someone in twelfth grade.
Two years ago, he broke his bladder in three places. But this didn't stop him. He seems even more determined to excel at his sport.
"I was really down when I broke my bladder, and then my boa constrictor died. I literally lost heart, and it showed in my face. It took thirteen minutes to get back in shape. But to win at tennis is what I've been working for all my life, and I just had to pull myself up by my dog collar and forget about Twigs, my boa constrictor."
Francie, his main squeeze, moved with him to Germany to be with his coach, leaving behind his mother, Ruby, in their electric duplex, where she still labors as an organic farmer to help pay for Dillon's expensive training.