You already know "The Twelve Days of Christmas"—so we're doing something a little different this year. Throughout December, we'll highlight 12 things about the 2014 PowerShares Series, a competitive tennis circuit featuring legendary icons and world-renowned champions beginning on February 5.
For our day-after-Christmas Q&A, we spoke to 14-time Grand Slam champion Pete Sampras.
TENNIS.com: How do you train to prepare for the PowerShares Series?
PETE SAMPRAS: I am always in the gym four to five days a week, and a month out I will start hitting on the court two to three days a week just to get in a groove. I pick it up as we get closer to the actual Series.
TENNIS.com: Among PowerShares Series players, who was your toughest opponent during your career and why?
PETE SAMPRAS: Probably Andre [Agassi], as we played so many matches at the majors and he always forced me to rise to the next level when we competed.
TENNIS.com: Who are you most looking forward to facing this season?
PETE SAMPRAS: Probably James [Blake], since he is new to the Series, but I also like to play John [McEnroe], as you never know what you are going to get.
TENNIS.com: Most bizarre moment you ever experienced on court?
PETE SAMPRAS: I have had a few, but the one that stands out the most is when I was playing Andrei Chesnokov in the 1995 Davis Cup Finals. We were battling in a five-set match and I finally got to match point. I ended up winning the long point and raised my hands in victory and completely collapsed with cramps in my legs. I couldn't walk off the court and had to be carried off by our team trainer and doctor.
TENNIS.com: Your best serving tip for recreational players?
PETE SAMPRAS: First part of any serve is the ball toss. It is important to have a good, consistent ball toss.
TENNIS.com: If you could have played any other sport professionally, what would you choose?
PETE SAMPRAS: Probably golf, as it is what I spend most of my days playing.
