Andre Agassi

Has it really been twenty years?

Professional tennis just bid adieu to Andre Agassi. I'm writing this piece shortly after hearing that the 36-year-old superstar lost to future trivia question Benjamin Becker in the 2006 US Open.

Agassi is nearly the last of the tennis-playing Boomers that included Chris Evert, Bjorn Borg, Jimmy Connors and (reluctantly mentioned) John McEnroe. Indeed, Martina Navratilova's retirement from doubles play this last summer signaled an end of an era that Agassi's parting simply confirms.

Alas, the world belongs to the young.

Andre became known as a bad boy for his unconventional ways. While he was a fiery competitor on the court who would sometimes question calls, he never approached McEnroe's obnoxiousness.

Personally, I like the guy. For one thing, he's not afraid to let that scalp shine. No rugs or hair weaves for him!

Also, he was able to bag beautiful Brooke Shields. His marriage to her lasted from 1997 to 1999. He is now married to former women's great Steffi Graf.

By 1998, Agassi, no longer able to rely on his youthful vigor, dropped in the world rankings to 141st. Determined to get back in the competitive limelight, he went to work and regained his strength. He ended up the year ranked 6th, the largest jump ever in one year.

So Andre, this cup of coffee is for you. Thanks for the memories.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Andre_Agassi

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