I Show Respect to? . . .

At the age of 15, in 1987, Michael Chang became the youngest player in history to win a main draw match at the US Open. In 1989, he stunned the tennis world by upsetting tennis greats Ivan Lendle and Stefan Edberg in the French Open thereby becoming the youngest player in the world to rank in the Top 5.

From the start of his career, Chang has spoken openly about his love for his family, his faith in God, and his belief in biblical values. "I became a Christian when I was 15 years of age," Michael says. He consistently honours his parents by showing them respect in his actions and through his words. When he received his trophy at the French Open, Chang thanked his family and everyone else who had a part in his success including Jesus Christ, saying, "Without Him, I'm nothing!"

Chang ignored critics who have stated he should keep his personal values to himself. "I've just received so much joy, so much love, and so many blessings from the Lord," he explains. "When something good happens to you, you want to share it with people!"

Chang's family has supported him every step of the way. His father, Joe, introduced Michael and his brother, Carl, to tennis as a fun sport that would help them develop physically and mentally. After putting in a full workday, Chang's dad would spend hours on the tennis court with his sons. When their tennis careers became more serious, the family moved from New Jersey to Southern California to enable them to play year-round. When Chang decided to go on the professional tour at the age of 15, his mother quit her job as a research chemist to travel with him. Chang respects his parents for supporting his desire to play tennis while not pushing him to play.

Chang is appreciative of the involvement and support of his family. "For me, my family plays a really important role. I feel blessed to have such a giving and unselfish family. They have always been by my side to encourage me, love me, and support me. I definitely wouldn't be where I am without their support."

Chang looks at playing tennis as a way to "spread the Word." "If I'm able to draw people to the Lord, then they'll always have that joy and love for Him," he says. "The fame and the money and the rankings can't compare to touching people's lives and encouraging them in the Lord, because that's something that lasts a lifetime and beyond.

For more information on Michael Chang, check out his website at www.mchang.com.