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Monday, 11 March, 2002, 03:26 GMT
Agassi celebrates father's day
Andre Agassi
Agassi is hungry for even more titles
Andre Agassi dedicated the 50th title of his career to his father Mike after collecting the trophy at Scottsdale.

Agassi, who beat Spanish opponent Juan Balcells in straight sets, said his success was thanks to his father's enthusiasm .

"He helped develop me at an age that was very crucial," Agassi said.

"And he loves the game of tennis more than anybody I know."


It kind of hits you, how many times you've had the privilege of standing out there and holding the trophy
Andre Agassi

Agassi presented the trophy to his father, Mike, who came to see his son and new daughter-in-law Steffi Graf, along with 4 1/2 month old grandson, Jaden Gill.

The 31-year-old, the ninth man to reach 50 titles said he had only thought about reaching the milestone after the match.

"Before, you're really thinking about your opponent and what you need to do," he said.

"When you get done with it, it kind of hits you, how long you've been out here, how many times you've had the privilege of standing out there and holding the trophy," Agassi said.


I'm quite pleased where everything is finding a place right now
Andre Agassi

The American paid tribute to his little-known opponent, saying it was a tough game.

"His serve is as big of a kick as you'll ever face out there and with the altitude, it was really taking off," he said.

"He's not necessarily an offensive player from the baseline, but he makes you hit a number of balls to win the point."

And Agassi made it clear he would be aiming to add to his half-century of titles in the near future.

"My game is coming around, and I know where I want to be when I'm out there. I want to be out there working. I'm quite pleased where everything is finding a place right now."

Agassi will have little time to enjoy the victory, heading to Tennis Masters Series events at Indian Wells and Miami in the next two weeks.

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