Pete Sampras

Pete Sampras (born August 12, 1971, in Washington, D.C., USA) is a retired professional tennis player widely regarded as one of the greatest to ever play the sport. Known for his powerful serve, graceful athleticism, and mental toughness, Sampras dominated men’s tennis throughout the 1990s and left a lasting legacy.

Sampras turned professional in 1988 at the age of 16 and quickly showcased his potential. By 1990, he became the youngest male champion in US Open history at just 19, defeating legends like Ivan Lendl and Andre Agassi. His success at Flushing Meadows marked the beginning of an illustrious career that saw him win **14 Grand Slam titles**, a record at the time of his retirement. These include seven Wimbledon titles, five US Open titles, and two Australian Open titles.

Nicknamed “Pistol Pete” for his lethal serve, Sampras was also renowned for his all-court game, volleying prowess, and unmatched ability to rise to the occasion in high-pressure moments. He spent a record 286 weeks as the world No. 1, a testament to his consistency and dominance.

Sampras retired in 2002 after an unforgettable final match, defeating his longtime rival Andre Agassi in the US Open final. Off the court, he is known for his humility and quiet demeanor, focusing on his family life with his wife, actress Bridgette Wilson, and their children. Today, Pete Sampras is remembered as a symbol of excellence in tennis, whose achievements and playing style set a standard for future generations of players.