Frances Tiafoe has made a career out of delivering big moments on the court, but on Friday at the Cincinnati Open, the outgoing American saved one of his most meaningful wins for off the court.
During a behind-the-scenes day at the tournament, Tiafoe stunned University of Louisville standout Russell Lokko by awarding him a $30,000 scholarship, spread over two years, through the USTA Foundation’s Frances Tiafoe Fund. The gift will cover the final gap in Lokko’s college expenses, allowing him to finish his junior and senior years debt-free.
“This is great, I’m excited to get it out,” said Tiafoe, the No. 14 player in the PIF ATP Rankings. To see how ecstatic he was with being able to take care of his junior and senior career, it’s a huge deal. [Being] the son of immigrants, I’ve been in that seat, I know how it is.”
For Tiafoe, the moment was a reminder of why giving back matters. “When you get a chance, you have to grab it with two hands and use it to the best of your ability,” he told Lokko. “But ultimately, I did this because of the guy you are. Keep being you, keep standing on your morals, and keep striving to be great.”
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