Escobedo's family provides key support for his rise

American Ernesto Escobedo has been rising up the ranks quietly, first finding himself in the spotlight at last year's US Open. A lot of his success is thanks to the support of his close-knit family, and the sense of stability he gets from his home base in southern California.

"They've been so supportive with my tennis since day one," Escobedo said.

His father, also named Ernesto, began playing in his native Mexico and dreamed of being a pro. But his career never reached close to the level his son has already achieved.

"I love tennis, I really do..." Escobedo's father said. "I wish he could make a living out of it, be a true athlete. I would love that. It's a dream for the whole family."

One of the key pillars for pro success is family support, and it looks like Escobedo's got that in surplus.

Last summer, Escobedo earned his US Open wild card through the USTA Pro Circuit US Open Wild Card Challenge, and won a round in the main draw. The Californian followed that major milestone by reaching the second round in Melbourne as a qualifier. Keep in mind, Escobedo is just 20, and started 2016 almost outside of the Top 400.

Now he finds himself gearing up for his French Open debut, where his improved ranking has earned him main draw acceptance.

The American reached his first ATP semifinals in Houston last month, and is one spot shy of his career-high ranking of No. 73. He's a real threat to make the Next Gen ATP Finals in Milan this November, and a dark horse in Paris next week.

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