Macau: Pete Sampras edged by Andre Agassi in
three sets today as the two retired American tennis greats
revisited one of the sport's greatest rivalries.
The 3-6, 6-3, 10-8 win in this southern Chinese gambling
enclave was the first time the two had played since Sampras
won in the 2002 US Open final for his then-record 14th Grand
Slam.
The fast indoor surface at The Venetian Macao arena
favoured Sampras' attacking style, but it was Agassi who came
out packing more heat in his serve, showing no signs of the
bad back that required four injections during his final
tournament, the 2006 US Open.
But Sampras, who beat Roger Federer at the same venue in
an exhibition two years ago, recovered, serving an ace and
using a delicate pickup volley to secure the second set.
He continued his strong form into the super tie-breaker,
overwhelming Agassi with his powerful serve. Trailing 9-6,
Agassi saved two match points - the second with a
down-the-line backhand winner - but Sampras served out the
match with another ace.
"Thanks for the exercise," Agassi told Sampras after the
match.
The two Americans captivated fans in the 1990s and early
2000s with their contrasting styles and personalities. The
reserved Sampras was known for his serve and crafty volleys;
the long-haired, neon-wearing Agassi wore down opponents with
accurate returns and counter-punching.
Sampras led their head-to-head 20 to 14, including 4 to 1
in Grand Slam finals, the last being Sampras' four-set victory
in the 2002 US Open final.
The two former No 1s have 124 career titles and 22 Grand
Slams between them - Agassi has eight and Sampras 14. Agassi
is one of only six men to have won all four majors and also
won Olympic gold in Atlanta in 1996.
Sampras' 14 Slams was a record until Federer won
Wimbledon this year, bringing the Swiss star's tally to 15.
Bureau Report
First Published: Sunday, October 25, 2009, 18:42