But by the middle of the second set, I knew that wasn't happening. For the first time this tournament, he looked uncomfortably pained. I was watching with Jenn, and we were in awe of how this man, a mere shell of his former self, was giving this match everything he had and making his opponent earn the victory. With a ruptured disk in his back, he was still serving at 114mph and running to the net. His winning of the second set made us euphoric, and for a moment, allowed us to believe that maybe he could pull out a win. But as the match wore on, the reality of the situation became all too apparent, and I began to savor each point to its fullest.
I was disappointed with the way the match ended. I am not a fan of using aces to end a game, a set or especially a match. I feel you should win by beating the man, and the ace is the easy way out. However, I do give Benjamin Becker a lot of credit. He was playing his idol, and showed much class in victory.
The tears formed and the applause was loud in Jenn's living room as Andre said his goodbyes on the court. Showing true emotion and sincere gratitude, I could think of no greater way to say goodbye to this tremendous athlete and extraordinary man.
I became an Andre Agassi fan in 1990. He was arrogant and flashy and was so exciting to watch. His brashness, flowing locks, very good looks and colorful clothing were matched only by his natural talent. I was instantly smitten, and he has been a mainstay on the Hierarchy since.
I remember that July afternoon in 1992 when Andre won Wimbledon. I was so happy for him winning his first major and the realization of his life goal. It was around this time I began subscribing to Tennis magazine. Not for any tips for my own game, mind you. Rather, solely for pictures and articles on Andre.
There have been many ups and downs over the past 16 years. Those flowing locks became a buzz cut to the chrome dome we know today. I watched him become only the fifth player in the Open era to win all four grand slams. Further, the only one of those five who has an Olympic gold medal as well. I supported him though the brown & white striped shirt period. I bought the Rebel camera because he endorsed it. I paced nervously through numerous five set nailbiters; cursing the loses and cheering the victories. I've seen many coaches and girlfriends go through the revolving door. There have been tears of joy and tears of sadness. And through it all, I remained a fan.
Today is one of those rare days where the tears are of joy and sadness. Joy, because he'll get the treatment his back is in dire need of, and sadness to have to say goodbye to such a phenominal athlete.
I know this isn't the last we'll see of Andre. Whether it be in charity work or the senior's tour, I know the love affair will continue. I can also take comfort in watching players like James Blake and Andy Roddick on the court. Andre has influenced a generation of tennis players and through them, his legacy can only grow.
I love you, Andre Agassi. Thank you.
Quote of the Day:
"The scoreboard said I lost today, but what the scoreboard doesn't say is what it is I have found. And over the last 21 years, I have found loyalty. You have pulled for me on the court and also in life. I've found inspiration. You have willed me to succeed, sometimes even in my lowest moments. And I've found generosity. You have given me your shoulders to stand on to reach for my dreams, dreams I could have never 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. Thank you." -Andre Agassi
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