What's your major? Jenson Brooksby's 2020 path lies in US Open outcome

A few fans were sprinkled around Court 13 to watch former Wimbledon finalist Tomas Berdych start his US Open campaign. Near the match's end, it was standing room only, as fans stood on the bleachers of adjacent Court 14 to witness the finishing touches of an impressive win by Jenson Brooksby.

The 18-year-old from Sacramento, CA showcased grit and pure determination to top Berdych, 6-1, 2-6, 6-4, 6-4, and record his first main draw win at a Grand Slam. Brooksby won three qualifying matches to gain entry and is into the second round, which comes with $100,000 in prize money. However, the American has signed a letter of intent with Baylor University—starting in January 2020—and would forgo his scholarship should he accept the winnings.

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A second-round win against world No. 17 Nikoloz Basilashvili would almost certainly force Brooksby to re-evaluate his situation on the path he chooses for 2020. Not only would he be in the third round of a major, but the 18-year-old would then be guaranteed $163,000—equivalent to just under four years of tuition at Baylor. (When reached for comment, Baylor coaches declined to comment.)

Brooksby's game has reached a new level over the course of a year, evidenced by his growth from a decisive defeat to John Millman in his Grand Slam debut at this venue in 2018. He's proven himself at the ATP Futures level, picking up three $25k titles thus far. He and Basilashvili will face off in Wednesday's final match on Court 5 in a match that has implications far beyond the scoreline.

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