NEW YORK -- A career for the ages came to a close when a worn down and wincing Andre Agassi lost to 112th-ranked Benjamin Becker 7-5, 6-7 (4-7), 6-4, 7-5 in the third round at the U.S. Open on Sunday.
Betrayed by a creaky body that needed four injections this week, Agassi's spirit never waned.
"For me, it was never about winning and stopping," he said. "It was about getting the most out of myself for as long as possible," he said.
Agassi announced this summer that his 21st consecutive US. Open would be his final event. It seemed unimaginable that he could win seven matches to take the title, but after two inspiring victories, fans began to hope and wonder.
Instead, the end came with Agassi looking like what he'd become -- a 36-year-old man with a bad back, ready for retirement.
"I just credit the doctors that I was able to play out there today," he said. "I didn't expect a whole lot physically. And sure enough, it was real early when I wasn't feeling so good."
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| Andre Agassi thanks the adoring crowd as part of his farewell from tennis. (Getty Images) |
Moments later, Agassi teared up on the blue court as he addressed a crowd that showed up early at Arthur Ashe Stadium and tried to spur him all afternoon.
"The scoreboard said I lost today, but what the scoreboard doesn't say is what it is I've found," Agassi said, his voice cracking with emotion. "Over the last 21 years, I've found loyalty. You have pulled for me on the court and also in life. I have found inspiration. You have willed me to succeed sometimes even in my lowest moments."
German qualifier Becker applauded as Agassi spoke. Agassi's wife, Steffi Graf, and their two children looked on.
"He was my idol growing up," said Becker, no relation to Boris -- never even met him.
He joined the crowd for a four-minute, loud standing ovation saluting Agassi, who stared out at the crowd from his chair, wiping tears from his eyes.
Agassi was greeted by another big cheer from fellow players when he walked into the locker room. Toward the end of that tribute, Becker entered.
