Pete Sampras, one of the most successful tennis players in history, left an indelible mark on the sport with his clinical performances, quiet confidence, and unflinching commitment to class and professionalism. While his 14 Grand Slam titles once stood as the ultimate benchmark for greatness, Sampras’s legacy is about more than just numbers—it is about how he played the game, conducted himself, and drew inspiration from the legends who preceded him.
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Among the many figures Sampras respected, two stood out above all others—not fellow Americans Jimmy Connors or John McEnroe, but the Australian greats Rod Laver and Ken Rosewall. Their grace, behavior, and approach to the game deeply influenced Sampras, molding him into the consummate professional he became.
The Australians Who Defined Excellence
When asked during the 1993 US Open who his idols were, Sampras’s response highlighted his admiration for Rod Laver and Ken Rosewall, two Australian tennis icons known as much for their skill as for their sportsmanship.
Laver, the only player in history to achieve the Grand Slam (winning all four major titles in a single calendar year) twice, was celebrated for his breathtaking versatility and ability to perform under pressure. Rosewall, known for his elegant style and longevity, competed at the highest level well into his 40s, exemplifying endurance and class.
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“[Rod] Laver and [Ken] Rosewall were guys I looked up to,” Sampras said. “I try to conduct myself in a classy manner, like they did. They were great guys.”
Unlike many of his American contemporaries, who thrived on fiery antics and crowd engagement, Sampras admired the Australians’ understated demeanor. He sought to emulate their professionalism, prioritizing respect for the game over theatrics.
Why Sampras Respected Laver and Rosewall More Than Connors and McEnroe
While Sampras acknowledged the talent and intensity of Jimmy Connors and John McEnroe, two of the most iconic figures in American tennis, his admiration for them was tempered by their controversial behavior. Connors was known for his fiery temper and confrontational style, while McEnroe became infamous for his on-court outbursts and disputes with officials.
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“I respected McEnroe’s talent and Connors’ intensity,” Sampras said. “But the Aussies—those guys were great guys.”
Sampras’s perspective was shaped by his coach, Pete Fischer, who encouraged him to model his behavior after Laver and Rosewall. Fischer’s advice resonated with the young Sampras, who saw the value of embodying dignity and humility on and off the court.
Sampras’s Commitment to Class and Professionalism
Throughout his career, Sampras remained unwavering in his commitment to professionalism. His reserved demeanor often drew criticism for lacking the charisma or flair that defined players like Connors and McEnroe. However, Sampras made it clear that his focus was on winning matches, not entertaining the press or the crowd.
“I can’t change my attitude on the court for the fans or the press,” Sampras explained. “I just have to do what I have to do to win tennis matches, and the way I conduct myself is the way it is always going to be.”
This mindset paid dividends. Sampras dominated the sport during the 1990s, winning seven Wimbledon titles, five US Open crowns, and two Australian Open trophies. His Grand Slam total of 14 was a record at the time and stood as a benchmark until it was surpassed by Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, and Novak Djokovic.
Key Rivalries and Memorable Moments
Sampras’s rivalry with Andre Agassi was one of the most compelling in tennis history. The two Americans couldn’t have been more different—Sampras, the quiet and methodical champion, versus Agassi, the flamboyant showman. Their battles captivated fans and highlighted Sampras’s ability to rise to the occasion on the biggest stages.
Sampras began his Grand Slam journey with a win over Agassi at the 1990 US Open, defeating him in straight sets to claim his first major title. Fittingly, his career ended with another victory over Agassi, this time in the 2002 US Open final, where he secured his 14th and final Grand Slam trophy.
A Legacy of Inspiration
Sampras’s admiration for Laver and Rosewall extended beyond their skills—it was about the values they represented. By holding himself to the same standards, Sampras became a role model for future generations of players, including Federer, who shares his composed and respectful demeanor on court.
While Sampras’s achievements have been surpassed in the record books, his legacy as a symbol of professionalism endures. The qualities he admired in Laver and Rosewall—grace, humility, and respect—are now associated with Sampras himself.
Final Reflections
Pete Sampras’s journey in tennis was shaped not only by his immense talent but also by the principles he embraced. His admiration for Rod Laver and Ken Rosewall guided him to become one of the sport’s most respected figures. In an era defined by larger-than-life personalities, Sampras’s quiet brilliance stood out, proving that greatness can be achieved without theatrics.
As he once said, “The way I conduct myself is the way it is always going to be.” That unwavering commitment to integrity and professionalism remains one of the defining aspects of Sampras’s storied career.
