AO Press Release, June 29, 2018
In an era-defining rivalry that captivated the tennis world, Americans Pete Sampras and Andre Agassi produced some of their best matches at the Australian Open.
Their semifinal showdown at Australian Open 2000 was a classic, with Agassi coming from behind to beat Sampras in a two hour and 55 minute thriller, 6-4 3-6 6-7(0) 7-6 (5) 6-1.
The match is just one of many classic matches featured on the Australian Open YouTube and socials channels, leading up to the 2019 Grand Slam tournament.
“The era of Pete Sampras and Andre Agassi was very special, and we were lucky at the Australian Open to witness this classic match between the two,” Australian Open Tournament Director Craig Tiley said.
“They both always gave everything whenever they stepped on the court. This occasion was no different.
“Agassi may have won in the end, but tennis fans around the world were treated to another epic battle between the two.”
Sampras acknowledged just how incredible the match was after his loss.
“Andre and I have been a part of a lot of epics,” Sampras said at the time.
“Today was definitely one of them, and he got the best of me.”
Agassi ended up winning the title, defeating Russian Yevgeny Kafelnikov 3-6 6-3 6-2 6-4 in the final.
This match and many more classic matches from the Australian Open can be seen on the Australian Open YouTube Channel.