Pete Sampras
Pete Sampras
Petros "Pete" Samprasis a retired American tennis player and former world No. 1 regarded as one of the greatest players in tennis history. He debuted on the professional tour in 1988 and finished his career at the 2002 US Open, which he won, defeating rival Andre Agassi in the final. He was particularly esteemed for his precise serve, earning the nickname "Pistol Pete"...
NationalityAmerican
ProfessionTennis Player
Date of Birth12 August 1971
CityPotomac, MD
CountryUnited States of America
If I win and play well, then the ranking will take care of itself. Defending points is really not a problem. Just go out and play and not worry about it.
As long as I feel like I can win majors and contend, I'll continue to play.
I feel much more respected in Europe than I do in the States from the press and from the people. Americans expect me to win every match I play.
Tennis obviously isn't as popular as baseball in the States.
The way I hold the club, I've got my hand way over, like I'm driving a motorcycle. My Kawasaki grip.
There is no doubt about how hard it is to stay on top in any sport, but to do it in an individual sport for the majority of your career, it is not easy.
People watched the Masters. It was a huge event. It was at The Garden. Now that it is over here in Europe, it has lost a little bit of popularity in the States.
When I tied the record five years in a row, even over in Europe, it wasn't really talked about. It is disap-pointing because it is one of the toughest things to do in sports.
When you come back strong, you are going to have little nagging things that you can usually play through, but every now and again, it is to the point where you can't play.
Players aren't quite as intimidated by my name.
I don't look so much for tips. But when they interview a Nicklaus or a Palmer, I'm all ears. I listen to guys who have done it, been successful for years.
Where I fall down is my short game. I don't practice enough, and when I have to take a half swing from 50 yards out, that's trouble.
I've got a great wife, a great life.
I've been into golf, trying to get into the gym to stay somewhat fit. I've got two boys now, they're active kids.