In the world of sports, heroes often emerge from unexpected corners, becoming beacons of inspiration for those who dream of emulating their greatness. For tennis sensation Chris Eubanks, that hero wasn’t a famous Grand Slam champion, but rather a local talent and Serena Williams‘ former hitting partner, Jarmere Jenkins.

In a recent heartwarming podcast conversation on “Hang Up and Listen Plus,” Eubanks delved into the cherished memories of his upbringing in the world of tennis. During this initial phase, Jenkins played a pivotal role as not just a mentor, but as a friend whose family’s laughter echoed through summer cookouts.

A friendship forged in tennis

In the warm embrace of summers, Eubanks found himself not just swinging his racket but forging lasting friendships. “I used to go over their house all the time,” he reminisced. The days melted into each other as tennis stories intermingled with laughter and the aroma of grilled food.

One of the things that made their connection even stronger was tennis equipment. Eubanks shared, “I saw his pictures on the wall, and it made me feel like I was a part of his journey.” Jenkins was sponsored by Babolat, and he had lots of rackets. Eubanks explained that he used Jenkins’ old rackets when he was young. “Until I was 13, I played with the rackets he used to play with,” Eubanks said with a smile. Those rackets weren’t just tools for playing; they were a link between their stories.

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Chris Eubanks’ journey to the zenith of tennis had an unconventional beginning. From a local hero to a cherished mentor, Jarmere Jenkins painted the canvas of Eubanks’ early years with inspiration, camaraderie, and shared dreams.

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Chris Eubanks’ unlikely neighborhood champion, Serena Williams’ former hitting partner Jarmere Jenkins

Eubanks explained in the podcast that he looked up to Jarmere Jenkins when he was young. Jenkins was a tennis prodigy who started as the best player in Georgia. Then he became a top player in the whole country, and even on the world stage for junior players. What made it even more special was that Jenkins lived really close – only about 10 to 15 minutes away from where Eubanks lived.

“It was surreal, you know,” Eubanks mused, “having someone of Jarmere’s caliber living so close by. It felt like having a piece of tennis royalty right in our neighborhood.” Eubanks and Jenkins shared a special friendship that went beyond tennis.

Eubanks remembered how Jenkins’ family became a part of his own family. “His family has been over my house for cookouts and things like that,” Eubanks said, showing the bond they had. It wasn’t just about tennis practice; it was about spending time together.

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