Samprasfanz

Sunday, March 9, 2008

WASHINGTON (AP)- Roger Federer loves Pete Sampras’ game, even if the old guy last played a real match in 2002.

“He’s so fluent, you know? His whole technique is so smooth,” Federer said. “And it was funny sometimes, because when I played him, it was intimidating. Because he reminded me so much of myself.”

How’s that for a compliment?

Similarly, Sampras loves Federer’s attitude, even if the youngster is fast approaching Sampras’ record for career Grand Slam titles.

“I don’t think he gets too overwhelmed, too worked up,” Sampras said.

Sound familiar?

Sampras, the best of his generation, and Federer, the best of his, bring two eras of excellence together Monday when they play an exhibition match at a sold-out Madison Square Garden. It’s the first men’s professional tennis match at the New York arena in a dozen years.

Pistol Pete vs. The Artful Roger.

The past vs. the present: Sampras is 36