Chanda Rubin was practically born with a tennis racket in her hand. She came from a tennis-playing family and grew up on the court her father built in the backyard. Rubin has now gone from her backyard to the most important arenas in the sport, earning the number seven ranking in the world. The top-ranked American-born female player, she has been a success on the court and off through hard work and a desire to be the best.

Growing up

Judge's daughter

Chanda Renee Rubin was born February 18, 1976, in Lafayette, Louisiana. Her father, Edward, is a judge, and her mother, Bernadette, is a retired elementary school teacher. The Rubins met at Louisiana State University when both were students. Edward Rubin became the first African American elected a district judge in Lafayette Parish.

Rubin told Tennis that her parents make a good team. "My parents make decisions together, but...