Pete Sampras says Stan Wawrinka's game has clicked. Source: Mark Kolbe / Getty Images
PETE Sampras believes Stanislas Wawrinka's game has clicked.
Making a rare appearance at a grand slam, the retired winner of 14 majors, said yesterday Wawrinka's persistence had paid off with a berth in tomorrow's Australian Open final.
Swiss world No. 8 Wawrinka reached his maiden title decider in his 36th grand slam appearance.
"He's been knocking on the door for a couple years now," Sampras said.
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"He has had some tough losses over the last couple years. He's figured it out a little bit.
"He's been in this situation a few times. He's stepping through that door.
"It seems like he's probably more confident, more sure of himself. He hits the ball great. It's just a matter of his belief. It seems like he's got that."
Despite the fashion for top players hiring former champions as coaches, Sampras said he had no desire to join the ranks of Stefan Edberg, Boris Becker and Ivan Lendl.
"No, no, no. It's not for me," Sampras said.
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"I've been asked by a couple guys. But the travel, to go on the road, do all that they're doing is not something that I'm interested in."
Sampras was supportive of friend Roger Federer's recent decision to work with Edberg.
And the American former world No. 1 was full of admiration for 32-year-old Federer's longevity.
"As I hit 30, 31, the grind of the tour, the travel, the international jet-lag, all that just wore on me. It tired me. It affected my motivation," Sampras said.
"That's why I've been so impressed with Roger, that he keeps going. Seems like he wants to play for another four or five years. I don't know how he does it."
Pete Sampras at the Australian Open. Source: Getty Images
While he prepared to watch last night's clash between Federer and Rafael Nadal, Sampras spoke of facing his great rival, Andre Agassi, at an exhibition in London in March.
Agassi apologised to Sampras after some banter between the two during a 2010 charity match turned sour. The two have played each other since.
"We're good, we battled many years, we're certainly very different in every way," Sampras said with a wry smile.
"I respect Andre. He was my toughest opponent. We're going to compete in London, have some fun, compete for the people there.
"Our relationship's fine. It's not like there's any bad blood. We've had a few awkward moments here and there, but it is what it is."
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