Tennis: Agassi makes forceful return
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.ANDRE AGASSI made a triumphant return to competition after a five-month lay-off when he beat his American compatriot Mark Keil 6-1, 6-2, in the first round of the Arizona men's championships.
Agassi's last competitive match was playing for the United States in the Davis Cup in the Bahamas last September, but he showed no signs of rust after having surgery on his right wrist in late December.
'I sure missed it. It felt absolutely incredible,' he said after his 57-minute victory. 'I missed doing what I love.'
Agassi, the fifth seed whose world ranking has dropped to 32, said that he has gained a new perspective on the game. 'I've been working so hard. I'm in the best shape of my life,' added the 1992 Wimbledon champion who has shed 15 pounds since last year's US Open.
'If all goes well, half a dozen tournaments into the year I'll be playing my best tennis and hopefully ready to go out there and win the French (Open).' Agassi broke service at 1-1 and won 26 of the next 30 points and eight successive games before closing out the match.
Although the injury is behind him, Agassi said he still feels a little bit of pain. 'There is a little pain starting and warming up, but you work through that in just a couple minutes.'
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments