Andre Agassi inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame – Tennis News
A very mature and visibly moved Andre Agassi gave an emotionally charged speech, marking his induction into the fabled International Tennis Hall of Fame. In a handsomely cut, charcoal grey suit Agassi sported a sophisticated look
that was in sharp contrast to his yesteryear’s long haired, denim clad brazenly rugged looks.
Agassi was joined by Fern ‘Peachy’ Kellmeyer at the sold out Bill Talbert Stadium Court in New Port, as the 219th and 220th Hall of Fame inductees respectively. Agassi began by saying, “I've stood at this
podium twice before. Once was to introduce my beautiful wife, Stephanie Graf. I was so much more comfortable that day because I felt the recipient to be far more worthy. The second time was in my father's imagination (laughter), in his mind's eye. From the
day I was born, my father Mike saw this day in my future and described it to me many times.”
Indeed, Agassi had initially resented his father’s insistence on him playing professional tennis starting from the age of five but was all praise for him now. He attributed his success and the fame and fortune that it entails to
his father’s persistence and faith in his abilities. Agassi noted that if it hadn’t been for his father’s constant motivation, he would have been unable to start his school for needy youth.
The American’s career has been a roller coaster ride of sorts. Starting with instant success, he stayed at the top of the rankings for 101 weeks and then nosedived to 141st in the world. From there he managed to make a comeback,
at age 33 to No. 1 position again becoming the world’s oldest top seed tennis player. In his 20 year career, Agassi bagged 60 career titles and at his pinnacle, Agassi won a Career Grand Slam and was only the fifth player in tennis history to have done so.
Commenting on Agassi’s induction at a media conference, long time rival and a former Hall of Fame inductee, Pete Sampras was all praise for Agassi. ‘‘He added to the game, not only with his tennis but with his charity work. He’s
been a real credit to the sport.’’
Agassi’s athletic revival has been accompanied by an awakening of his philanthropic side too. To date he has helped garner support and funding to the tune of 150 million US dollars, to establish The Andre Agassi College Preparatory
Academy in his hometown of Las Vegas, Nevada. The school which opened its doors in 2001 has been a refuge for hundreds of impoverished and destitute children. 18-year-old Simone Ruffin, a former student at Agassi’s school and a budding clinical psychologist
praised Andre, whom she called her ‘Hometown Hero’, eloquently in her introduction.
Partnering Brad Gilbert, Agassi is scheduled to play in the traditional Hall of Fame Exhibition Match against Owen Davidson and Todd Martin, to commemorate his induction. The American legend retired from professional tennis in
2006 after losing a third round game in the US Open.
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