AP Interview: Andre Agassi says he 'spent many years angry and disappointed at myself'

It turns out Andre Agassi was lying all along. To fans. To opponents. To tennis authorities.

[Kasper]

Agassi, as well as all of us need to open up and be true to our spirit. We're all in the same game. Since Agassi is an extreamly public figure, his path is public. I admire the courage......

[alb4758]

What a sad individual. He needed therapy at an early age. He never grew up to accept life for how hard things really are.

[Johnny Malone Jr]

I don't know if you read these posts Andre; in a way I hope you don't due to the potentially negative comments that as you mentioned are to be expteced;but here's my take on it. Yes, after hearing the news, I was greatly disappointed; but on the other hand after meeting you (Mercedes Benz Cup '99 in LA)at one of your pracitce sessions when you actually came over to meet me after Brad Gilbert told you that I wanted to meet you, but was to shy to do so,you came over to me and my friend and talked with us and let us check out you racket when we asked about it. To those who might not know Agassi,this showed the true character of this great champion. He was very humble and accomodating to us his fans. He was practing with Sampras that day,whom I also met.At the time I was working with then ATP player, Ronald Agenor and was up there (UCLA)for a practice session. He made some bad judgement calls;but he's done great things on and off the court,especially his school. I wish I could visit or even teach or speak there one day. I certainly don't condone the things that he (or you if you're reading this); but given his experiences I do understand. Thanks for having the strength and honesty to come forth with your story. I know that it had to be the most difficult decision of his/your life but God Bless You for being the person that you are.Continue to move forward in the positive way that you have;but learn, as I'm sure that you have from that crazy period in your life.

I love tennis, and will always love ya!

Keep it tight!

J. Malone(Los Angeles)

[Mike Dunchok]

It shows you how great he was that even with doing the things he did to himself and losing matches on purpose, he was still as successful as he was. Christ, a Dad that gives you speed...

[Kathi Monique Boggs]

Good for you Andre!!! I admire your candor and complete honesty...that took true courage to write your new book. I will buy it and read it as soon as I can. I have been so happy for your wife and kiddos...that this new part of your life is working out. I am not even a true fan of tennis but I have always loved you...agape love!!! May GOD bless you and your precious family!!! Kathi from Wichtia, Kansas :) PTLA~~~Praise the LORD always!!!(my motto)

[gonmar]

I commend Mr. Agassi for his confession. Confession is good for the soul. Mr. Agassi, you are courageous.

[Super Stars as Victims]

Oh..if I could only be in his shoes for a few moments...oh but wait...his shoes don't fit him...so they certainly wouldn't fit me. It's inspiring to know that all of us "humans" are frail and continue to have lessons to learn - no matter the fame, the money, the seemingly successful and happy life we might portray. Having faith in God is the only real, true answer to a happy life.

[JMM]

When I first heard about the book, I was disappointed by what I learned (second hand). On watching the 60 Minutes interview, I realize, again, how often we put false expectations on people. Life is hard and confusing enough w/o having to meet the crazy expectations of others (family, strangers, whomever). I admire Agassi's desire to 'come clean' about who he truly was, is and hopes to be.
The tennis world might scoff and act self-righteous and superior but he brought legions of fans to the sport & they certainly weren't turning down the money he brought in. We #the fans# acted like he was the 2nd coming of something and undoubtedly exacerbated his feelings of self-loathing, confusion and hopelessness. Money doesn't buy peace.

[G Kennedy]

as a former touring pro I am in doubt why? Is the the last bit of ego left? is the a way to say sorry? or is this a media stinger? I met Andre a few times and always believed as a person he was careful with words but I am saddened that that one day his children will reflect on this moment and not the many great ones he really gave many.

[mariasucks]

yep, my thoughts exactly Kennedy..

i am surprised and aghast that some even commend him for his confession...

have anyone wondered why his confession was timed after he went to macau for the exhibition match with sampras ?? How many people would watch him play if it were opened before the match.. perfect timing andre....