In yet another brilliant tennis exhibition matchup at the Greenbrier Hotel in White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia, American tennis legends Andy Roddick and Pete Sampras faced off in prime time Saturday night. The event was billed as Roddick vs. Sampras Under the Lights, the first time a match would be held at nighttime at the Greenbrier’s new Center Court at Creekside. However, rain drenched the Greenbrier Valley, sending the event to the Greenbrier’s Indoor Tennis Facility.
As thunder crashed outside, the power went out for a short time in the building. However, the lights came back on fairly quickly, and the tennis stars were introduced. After two hard-fought sets, Andy Roddick claimed the victory 6-4 6-4.
Roddick’s Power And Speed Makes Relatively Quick Work Of Sampras At Greenbrier Tennis Match
Andy Roddick is known for his overwhelming first serves, and they sliced right by Pete Sampras tonight. Roddick had over 20 aces tonight, attacking the corners as much as possible. Sampras showed some rust, often letting Roddick’s serves whiz by him without any attempt at a return.
Roddick’s finesse annoyed Sampras throughout. A-Rod utilized some impressive slices and angles to slip the ball by Sampras without contest.
Sampras, a winner of 15 Grand Slam events during his tremendous career, was a step behind all evening long. He could not put Roddick in a defensive position consistently. However, he did show flashes of his old self, garnering some winners via his magnificent forehand. His serve gained steam as the evening progressed, almost reaching speeds seen during his days on tour. But Roddick, 11 years Sampras’s junior, utilized his better shape to push his way to the victory.
The exhibition provided much entertainment as the two players traded jabs. Sampras, the Tennis Pro Emeritus at the Greenbrier, received some hilarious barbs from Roddick. Roddick playfully accused Sampras of having partial line judges on his side. Hilarity also ensued when Roddick and the chair umpire argued over tight calls.
Tonight’s event was just a precursor for the other tennis festivities to be held at the Greenbrier Resort soon. In September, the hotel will welcome Sampras back, while bringing in John McEnroe, Venus Williams, and Madison Keys for the Greenbrier Champions Tennis Classic. Also, it has been rumored that the Davis Cup may place some upcoming matches at the bustling resort. LWOS will keep you covered with all the happenings at the Greenbrier.
