Sampras backs himself to win against Federer

It is a dream video game match-up,to be sure: Pete Sampras in his prime against Roger Federer in his prime. But what if such a match-up were actually possible,and they played each other on grass? Who would win? Sampras casts one vote for Sampras. I think one thing Roger doesnt see on grass is a true serve-and-volleyer,someone thats willing to come in and put pressure on him,make him pass,return, Sampras said during a recent conference call. With these big serves,I dont think anyone really scares him. I think my game would make Roger a little more uncomfortable. I would come in on both serves,put pressure on his backhand,and go from there.

Do I think I could have beaten Roger in my prime? Sure. I dont think anyone could beat me in my prime on grass. I felt unbeatable in the mid-90s. But hed be a tough guy to break,especially when hes hitting 50 aces like he did at Wimbledon. It would have been a great match-up.

Although reluctant to compare great players of different era,Sampras said he would probably name Federer as the best of all time if pushed. Its a hard question to answer and I just feel each generation has its player, he added. You had Rod Laver in the sixties,Bjorn Borg in the seventies and the eighties,me in the nineties and Roger today. The greatest player of all time? Its hard to say but I would give it to Roger.

No negative impact

Sampras said he felt the arrival of twin girls in Federers life will have no negative impact on his career. I dont see Roger changing diapers at four in the morning, said Sampras. Its a life changer but he is focused on his tennis, he added.