"I just hope it hasn't already been destroyed" - When Pete Sampras was heartbroken after 60+ 'priceless' tennis trophies were robbed
Pete Sampras was devastated when the majority of his tennis trophies were stolen from a public storage facility in West Los Angeles. He expressed deep sadness, particularly because his children would no longer have the opportunity to see the physical proof of his remarkable legacy.
Sampras is widely regarded as arguably the greatest American player in the sport’s history. Over his illustrious career, which spanned more than a decade, he achieved nearly everything imaginable, including a then-record 14 Grand Slam titles and an astounding 286 weeks as the World No. 1, among other accomplishments.
In 2010, the American icon endured a tough setback when a thief stole his 60+ trophies from a public storage facility. The stolen items included his 1994 Australian Open trophy, the majority of his 64 tour title trophies, two Davis Cups, an Olympic ring, and six year-end No. 1 trophies from 1993 to 1998.
The theft not only took away his tennis achievements but also personal memorabilia that held sentimental value including an autographed piano bench from Elton John, an autographed guitar from Carlos Santana, and a collection of newspaper clippings chronicling Sampras' entire career.
After the incident, Pete Sampras told the media that he was heartbroken, particularly because he had hoped his sons, Christian and Ryan, would one day be able to see his trophies since they had never seen him play.
"I'm not one to gloat about trophies, or show them off," he said. "I've never been like that. I just want them for my kids to see. They didn't see me play, but I'd like them to see these things."
"'For me to have it for my kids is priceless. I just hope it hasn't already been destroyed. That's why I wanted to get the word out now. I know this is a long shot, but I'd regret it if I didn't at least try. Maybe somebody knows something," he added.
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Pete Sampras eventually got his stolen trophies back
Pete Sampras had a stroke of luck, as in a shocking turn of events, he recovered his stolen trophies three months after they were taken.
According to the LA Times, the trophies were dropped off at a hospital in Marina Del Rey, Los Angeles. This followed secret negotiations between the American's lawyer, Anthony Salerno, a private investigator, and a lawyer representing the thief.
It was also agreed that no further legal action would be taken, and the stolen items of furniture would not be returned.
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