rogerfederer.com - Roger defeats Pete

Roger defeats Pete

In an exhibition match between the giants of tennis present and past, our star defeated Pete Sampras in straight sets, 6-4, 6-3.

The match in Seoul is the first of three Asian exhibitions the two legends will play. The pair meet again Thursday in Kuala Lumpur before heading to Macau two days later.

Sampras brought cheers from the crowd at Seoul's Olympic Tennis Arena as he fired down two fierce aces in his first service game.

Sampras proceeded to break his opponent's serve and then moved 4-2 ahead courtesy of a delightful drop shot.

"I feel pretty good," Sampras told Korean television after the game. "I made it competitive, which was my goal. Obviously Roger is the best player in the world and I retired five years ago. I am grateful that he invited me."

Roger was equally happy with the workout: "Pete was one of my idols growing up and it's great to play him," Roger said. "It wasn't easy for me, it wasn't easy for him as he's been retired five years. I am number one and everyone expects me to win."