ANAHEIM,CA – Andre Agassi won his third PowerShares Series event of the season when he dispatched hometown favorite and Orange County’s own Michael Chang, 8-4 in the championship match of the Acura Champions Cup at the Honda Center in Anaheim, CA.
“It’s a real blessing for all of us guys that grew up together to be playing out here on this platform, and to give back to the game that has given us so much,” said Agassi, in front of an adoring Southern California crowd. “Regardless of how we finish, we all have a great time competing against one another, and I really enjoyed the PowerShares Series again this season. I look forward to coming back in 2013.”
Agassi closed out the evening and the 2012 Series in dramatic style, as he and Chang waged a ferocious battle with Agassi leading 7-4, and on the verge of winning the event. With Chang serving, Agassi failed to convert 10 match points, as Chang did everything he could to stay alive. But on the 11th attempt, Agassi secured the victory when he forced Chang into a backhand error.
In the evening’s first semifinal, Chang played inspired tennis in front of his friends and family, as he beat Courier, 6-4. In the second semifinal, Agassi was in control from the beginning and spoiled John McEnroe’s chance at winning the overall points title, with a 6-2 triumph. Had McEnroe won the event tonight, he would have secured the #1 ranking for the season and the $500,000 first prize, which went to Courier.
For all news, scores, and stories regarding the entire 2012 PowerShares Series, log on to www.powersharesseries.com.
TONIGHT’S SCORES
Semifinal 1: Chang def. Courier, 6-4
Semifinal 2: Agassi def. McEnroe, 6-2
Final: Agassi def. Chang, 8-4
FINAL 2012 POWERSHARES SERIES RANKINGS
1. Courier 1500
2. *Agassi 1400
3. McEnroe 1400
4. Sampras 1100
5. Rafter 800
6. Chang 700
7. Lendl 400
8. Martin 200
Wilander 200
* Agassi wins tiebreaker on head-to-head record