"Andre brought Hollywood to tennis" - Patrick Rafter compares American tennis legends Andre Agassi and Pete Sampras

Having faced both Andre Agassi and Pete Sampras at their peak, retired Australian tennis star gave some behind-the-scenes information on each man's style and mindset during their careers.

Agassi and Sampras both pushed American tennis back into the spotlight in the 90's and early 2000's, with the pair combining to win 22 Grand Slam singles titles. Both men held the World No.1 ranking, with Sampras winning 14 Grand Slam titles during his career whereas Agassi finished with eight Majors.

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Both men had vastly different styles, says Rafter

The Australian legend experienced the talented duo firsthand, holding a combined 9-22 record against both men. In an interview for the ATP Tour YouTube channel, Rafter delved into what made each man different.

"[I] Always enjoyed playing Andre [Agassi] because I enjoyed our matchup in styles,” said Rafter. “I’d chip charge and come to the net and he’d pass me and lob me and do whatever he needed to do to beat me which he did pretty often. I got him a few times, and we got to play each other in Grand Slams and big occasions, which was unreal.
"Andre put a new face to tennis in America. That brash, out there personality sort of brought Hollywood to tennis.
"When I played Pete [Sampras] it was just the same style of player [as me], he was better, a lot better than I was. Pete was just too good.
"Pete was quieter, reserved, and he sort of went about his business. He stayed true to himself, and I think we all did. I don’t think you could be really successful and be fake."

All three men share a unique ATP record, as Agassi, Rafter and Sampras all held the World No.1 ranking in the eight days between July 25, 1999, and August 2, 1999.

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