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The Wimbledon Championships is the most prestigious and exciting event on the tennis calendar. Every tennis star dreams of winning the Wimbledon title. The event is steeped in tradition and history. But what about the players’ accommodations during the tournament? In his book, ‘A Champion’s Mind’, Pete Sampras shares his voice on an important matter. He shed light on his experience of renting a house in Wimbledon Village.

Interestingly, Sampras mentions that his time at the Borg house came to an end when he opted out of their contract. It allowed Roger Federer to take over the iconic house in Wimbledon. Fans found it fascinating to think of the Swiss Maestro living in the same house that Sampras once called home during his Wimbledon campaigns.

Sampras shares his small yet deep connection with the Swiss Maestro, Roger Federer

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The American ace shared in his book that he began his Wimbledon journey staying at St. James. It is one of the many official player hotels in London. However, he soon realized that the smarter option was to rent a house in Wimbledon Village. The house is located in a posh suburb close to the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club.

Sampras wrote in his book, ” ..the best thing was to rent a house in Wimbledon Village. It is an upscale suburb just up the hill from the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club. The house I first rented and then stayed in for many years was on Clifton Road, and it was—I still laugh when I think about this—owned by people called “Borg.” Honest.”

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Sampras further exclaimed, “I believe Roger Federer took over the Borg house after I opted out of our contract one year, and how could you blame him, with that history?.” Sampras’ story provides an interesting perspective on a lesser-known aspect of Wimbledon. The Borg House may not be as famous as Centre Court, but it played a massive role in the Wimbledon experiences of its greatest men’s champion, Roger Federer.

READ MORE- ‘Don’t Think Anyone Could Beat Me in My Prime’- American Tennis Legend Pete Sampras Boasted About Thumping Roger Federer in a Dream Matchup Once

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Sampras was known for his powerful serve-and-volley style of play and his dominance on grass courts, particularly at Wimbledon. Federer is known for his all-court game and his incredible consistency. Despite their different playing styles, Sampras and Federer share a special connection. In many ways, Federer has followed in Sampras’ footsteps, particularly when it comes to his success at Wimbledon.

Sampras also shared about his match against Federer

In the book “A Champion’s Mind” published in 2008, Sampras wrote about his experience of playing against the Swiss tennis ace. The American tennis legend had immense admiration for the young Federer who defeated him. He had extensively praised Federer’s style of play. Despite the loss, Sampras acknowledged that Federer’s poised and dignified playing style, which left a lasting impression on him.

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WATCH THIS STORY: Serena Williams pays tribute to Roger Federer

Sampras believed that the match was a significant moment in Federer’s career. He handed over the Wimbledon baton to him at that moment, marking a turning point in Federer’s path to greatness.