1. Davis Cup SF 97, 2:1 match vs. Rafter
Electric atmosphere brought Pete to produce the best tennis ever to be seen. Rafter, after his US.Open victory
was a "marked man" as Pete said. You got to see to believe.
- " ... I will say that Sampras played the best tennis I've ever had the privilege to witness."
(Tom Gullikson, US Captain - August 10, 2002)
Here are some of the things Chris Bradnam, NBC Super-Channel commentator, said during and after the match:
- "We are seeing something a little bit special right here."
- "...playing tennis that only this man is capable of playing. What can you say a part from... ."
- "I'm becoming lost for words... Words are not appropriate, just watch it and enjoy."
- "I don't believe it, I don't think he could believe it."
- "... but then, who ever said that Pete Sampras was normal."
- "I don't believe it. It's nothing this man can't do. And there is very little this man hasn't
done!"
- "Superlatives were running dry, for me, during the match, and I'm sure the team mates have seen
something special as well."
2. Roland Garros 97, 1st Round vs. Santoro
Man on a Mission (to win the elusive crown; if only not for the stomach issues on the night of the 3rd round match...).
Simply in a great form. The atmosphere raised him even higher.
4. San Jose 96, Final vs. Agassi
In the battle for number 1, Pete gave Andre (in good form !) a clinic.
5. Roland Garros 97, 2nd Round vs. Clavet
Man on a Mission (see above).
On a surface more close to a clay than to a regular hard-court, Pete showed muster what a player he is.
7. Grand Slam Cup 97, Final vs. Rafter
One week after he had been demolished in Davis Cup, poor Rafter met Pete again. He got almost
the same treatment. read post-match pc: Sampras Rafter
8. Philadelphia 97, Final vs. Rafter
Another match, in which Pete's backhand never looked better.
If you want to talk about changing gears between matches, this is it.
Pete didn't play good tennis (in his standards) the whole year, and
suddenly he produced one of his best performances ever, showing
his greatness.
After tremendous performances against Rafter & Agassi on his way to the semis, Pete raised his game even higher and beat another U.S Open champion with a superb serve & volley game.
read post-match pc: Sampras Safin
keeping his Wimbledon final form. Pete' running forehand - the best shot in the history of
the game - never looked better while managing to produce some unbelievable winners.
read post-match pc: Sampras Agassi