James Blake is a retired professional tennis player that is known for his speed and his immense forehand. Along with working hard and having a positive attitude he was able to appear in 24 singles finals (10–14 record). With a much deserving career-high singles ranking he captured a World No. 4 spot. Some of Blake's career highlights included reaching the final of the 2006 Tennis Masters Cup, the semifinals of the Beijing Olympics, the quarterfinals of the Australian Open (2008) and US Open (2005, 2006).  He also holds two titles at the Hopman Cup (2003, 2004) and is the No. 1 ranked American singles player. Blake was a vital player for the United States 2007 Davis Cup championship team, going 2–0 in the championship tie vs. Russia at second singles. James has had some ups and downs in his life and career but was able to pull through due to his positive attitude and support from his parents. His autobiography came out on July 3, 2007, Breaking Back | How I Lost Everything and Won Back My Life. The book has some incredible learning lessons for all athletes alike.

Blake was also awarded the Comeback Player of the Year award for his remarkable return to the tour. James sat down with 2aDays to offer some advice to athletes.

* Originally published on June 9, 2022, by Keirsten Sires