After a decent playing career, Paul Annacone became Pete Sampras’ coach in 1995 and led his compatriot to tennis glory. In 2010, Annacone had the opportunity to work with another legend, Roger Federer.
The pair became Wimbledon champions in 2012 and continued working together until October 2013. Sampras and Federer are among the best players in history, both overall and on grass, sharing 15 Wimbledon trophies and dominating tennis’ cathedral at different times.
Knowing both players’ play and tactics, Annacone explained that Sampras’ strength mainly came from his powerful opening shot. The American was able to hit his best serves when it mattered and stayed calm at crucial moments.
Instead, Federer has both the incredible serve and the ability to serve early from anywhere on the court and get to the net in the blink of an eye. The coach explained Sampras and Federer’s great confidence, especially in crucial moments and under pressure, guaranteed ingredients on the fastest surface.
Not wanting to compare eras, Annacone said they are both the best lawn tennis players of their generation and those willing to settle down and deliver their best tennis on a regular basis.
“Pete’s thing is the serve of his; he’s probably the best server or serve holder I’ve ever seen.”
Federer is a 20-time Grand Slam champion
Roger Federer is one of the greatest players of all time.
He is revered for his exploits on and off the pitch. “I don’t suppose I know how he developed personally. I’m not his friend, not a family member.
An interview is an interview. Here he is very pleasant, very open. In some areas he hasn’t changed at all – even though he’s now a billionaire (laughs).
He always asks questions. My first conversation in 2001 was less of an interview and more of a conversation. And in 2019, when I last spoke to him, it was the same,” Annacone said. Annacone also spoke about how the Federer we see on TV differs from the one interacting with people.
“Of course, what has changed is his knowledge in general, but also about tennis history. His humor is also often underestimated, he always cracks a joke and likes to laugh. In conversation, he doesn’t appear as elegant as in advertising, more like a normal person. He’s a warm guy,” he added.
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