It's almost time for Frances Tiafoe's must-see semifinal match against fellow American Ben Shelton. Reaching this level of success on the pro tour takes a lot, and for Tiafoe, it meant a somewhat nontraditional high school experience.
Born to immigrants from Sierra Leon, Tiafoe grew up in Maryland at and around the Junior Tennis Champions Center in College Park, where his father worked on the maintenance team. His progression through the ranks of the junior circuit happened quickly, and he officially turned pro while he was still a teenager.
Needless to say, there wasn't much time for normal high school involvement. Unlike Shelton, who made waves in Florida high school tennis during his teenage years, Tiafoe never attended an in-person high school and
instead opted for online schooling. He completed his education through Laurel Spring School, a private online program that let him balance school with his tennis schedule.
Instead of the usual state titles and district tournaments, Tiafoe's teenage highlights included deep runs in multiple junior Grand Slams, winning the prestigious Orange Bowl junior tournament, and reaching a peak ranking of No. 2 in the international junior rankings.
Tiafoe will face Shelton in their US Open semifinal match on Friday at 7 p.m. Eastern.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Did Frances Tiafoe go to high school?
