Pete Sampras

To me, a hero means a person distinguished because of his or her great courage, strength, and kindness to others. A hero should have perseverance. He or she should set an example for others. Pete Sampras is my hero because of his perseverance and his great athletic abilities. He is a versatile tennis player who masters any situation. His determination is what inspires most people.

Pete Sampras was born in Washington D.C. on August 12, 1971. He is the son of Greek immigrants, Sam and Georgia Sampras. In 1987, he won the gold medal at the US Olympic Festival. Sampras was being noticed on the tennis tour after becoming a 16-year old qualifier. Two years later, he was ranked in the top ten. At age 19, Sampras became the youngest tennis player ever to win the US Open. He shocked everyone with his blazing serve. He won 14 grand slams which is the most on the ATP Tour. Some people consider him the best tennis player who ever lived.