re: Rafael Nadal: The playing style of Pete Sampras was not enjoyable to watch

quote:

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In his prime, Pete Sampras would have worn Rafa Nadal's azz out, both on serve and volley. Sure, Federer ended Sampras' run as Wimbledon King, but to say Sampras was at his best at that time would be ignorant. He was well past his best days by the time his AELTCC run ended. In his prime, there was no better tennis player in the world, EVER!!!

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LOL, completely disagree.

I’ve had this argument with a hundred people, but I think Rafa would beat Sampras in 4 sets at Wimbledon. Now that’s not to say Rafa is a better player. I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again, you can’t compare players from different generations head-to-head. You can only compare what they did and how they fared against their generation.

Sampras was the better Wimbledon player against his generation; it’s not debatable. However, if you matched them up, I think Rafa would take him, and yes part of it is because of the improvements/changes in equipment. I don’t think some of you understand the effect the new strings have on the ability to pass. That’s why the serve and volley game died out. Rafa, IMO, is the best passer in the game’s history and it’s because of:

A. The change in strings allows him to get so much more pace on the ball while still whipping it over and keeping it low. If someone hit a passing shot back in Sampras’ day with the pace Rafa does it would be in the stands.

B. The fact that he used to hit a forehand with each hand and thus has such a strong off-hand.

Again, let me reiterate, Sampras is the better Wimbledon champion, but Rafa would beat him head-to-head.

Also, I agree tennis is more exciting now. Longer rallies and better depth and athleticism. If only there was an American of note. It’s the only reason tennis isn’t getting the hype it deserves; it’s at a golden age right now.