"Everywhere Andre Agassi goes he's mobbed... Maybe he likes it" - When Pete Sampras discussed rival's 'outside distractions' after shock US Open exit
Pete Sampras once shared his perspective on the external distractions troubling Andre Agassi after his rival's shocking early exit at the 1993 US Open. Sampras also opened up about how his own personality was much more reserved in contrast.
Sampras and Agassi forged one of the greatest rivalries in tennis history, which was made all the more compelling due to their contrasting playing styles and personalities. While Agassi was known for his flashy presence, his arch-rival was more aloof.
Sampras reflected on the difference in their personalities during the 1993 US Open. That year, 16th seed Andre Agassi suffered a shock 6-4, 6-4, 3-6, 6-7(3), 6-2 defeat to 19-year-old Thomas Enqvist in the first round.
Following the American's exit, Pete Sampras highlighted the "many outside distractions" affecting his rival, pointing out that Agassi was "mobbed" by people wherever he went. He also suggested that his compatriot might possess an aura that drew people in and that he might even enjoy the attention.
"He has so many outside distractions. Everywhere he goes he's mobbed. Maybe he causes that kind of aura. Maybe he likes it, I don't know," Sampras said (via Sports Illustrated).
Meanwhile, Sampras asserted that he himself remained focused on his tennis while also fulfilling his obligations, like signing autographs. The American also admitted that while "controversy" might boost ticket sales, he had no intention of changing his personality to create more drama.
"I just play my tennis and sign my autographs and do what I have to do," he said. "I'm not very controversial, and controversy definitely sells tickets and causes ratings to go up. But I'm not going to change my style."
Pete Sampras triumphed at 1993 US Open after Andre Agassi's shock 1R exit
While Andre Agassi's campaign at the 1993 US Open ended in a shock first-round loss to Thomas Enqvist, second seed Pete Sampras produced a stellar run at his home Slam.
Aiming for his second title at the New York Major, Sampras triumphed over Fabrice Santoro, Daniel Vacek and Arnaud Boetsch to reach the fourth round. The No. 2 seed then sent back compatriot Agassi's conqueror Enqvist in the Round of 16.
Subsequently, the American claimed a commanding 6-7(0), 7-6(2), 6-1, 6-1 win over seventh seed Michael Chang in the quarterfinals and defeated Alexander Volkov 6-4, 6-3, 6-2 in the semifinals.
Taking on 15th seed Cedric Pioline in a blockbuster final, Pete Sampras delivered a dominant performance to secure a 6-4, 6-4, 6-3 victory, clinching his second US Open crown and third Grand Slam title overall.