Andre Agassi, widely recognized for his accomplishments in men’s tennis, stands as one of the most prominent American players alongside figures such as Jimmy Connors, John McEnroe, Arthur Ashe, and Pete Sampras. However, the debate surrounding Andre Agassi tennis legacy remains contentious as Connors publicly questioned Agassi’s standing among the greatest US players, especially following his 1999 US Open victory when Agassi reclaimed the World No. 1 ranking.
Jimmy Connors Challenges Agassi’s Ranking Among American Tennis Greats
In 1999, Andre Agassi secured his second US Open title and fifth Grand Slam overall, a milestone that also ended Pete Sampras’s six-year streak as the year-end No. 1 player. Despite this success, Jimmy Connors expressed skepticism about Agassi’s place among the all-time American legends. Just after Agassi’s US Open win, Connors told British reporters that he would not place Agassi’s name “in the same breath” as his own or other notable figures like McEnroe and Sampras.
“I wouldn’t mention his name in the same breath,” Connors said.
Connors also reacted sharply to Agassi’s claim that he modeled his playing style after Connors himself. He dismissed this, stating:
“Imitation is the greatest form of flattery but I think they broke the mold when I finished.”
Beyond game comparisons, Connors criticized Agassi’s career trajectory, particularly his return to the top of the rankings at age 29, implying that Agassi’s performance had been too inconsistent to merit such recognition.
“For him to be staging a comeback at the age of 29 is not the right thing,” Connors said. “There have been too many dips in his career and he hasn’t been consistently at the top of his game like Pete Sampras. With his talent, he should never have allowed himself to drop out of the top four or five.”
Despite Connors’ critique, Agassi’s career achievements include a total of eight Grand Slam singles titles and recognition as one of the few male players to complete a Career Grand Slam by winning all four major tournaments. This feat distinguishes Agassi even among other American tennis greats such as Connors, McEnroe, Sampras, and Ashe, who never accomplished it.
Agassi’s Farewell: Final US Open Appearance and Emotional Retirement Speech
Andre Agassi concluded his professional tennis career at the 2006 US Open. His final tournament saw him reach the third round before losing to Benjamin Becker. During his farewell, Agassi delivered an emotional message to his supporters, reflecting on his long journey and the bond he shared with fans.
“The scoreboard said I lost today. But what the scoreboard doesn’t say is what it is I have found. Over the last 21 years, I have found loyalty. You have pulled for me on the court and also in life. I found inspiration. You have willed me to succeed, sometimes even in my lowest moments,” Agassi said.
“And I’ve found generosity. You have given me your shoulders to stand on, to reach for my dreams, dreams I could never have reached without you. Over the last 21 years, I have found you, and I will take you and the memory of you with me for the rest of my life,” he added.
Present Day: Agassi’s Ongoing Connection to Tennis and Mentorship
Following retirement, Agassi has remained engaged in the tennis world, occasionally participating as a commentator during Grand Slam tournaments. More recently, he has extended his influence through coaching, serving as a mentor for young talents like Holger Rune during brief training periods. His continued presence highlights his enduring passion for the sport and commitment to shaping its future.