On March 1, the MGM Rewards Slam at the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino transformed into a buzzing tennis arena. The star-studded exhibition match witnessed Andre Agassi, an eight-time Grand Slam victor, team up with the current World No. 1, Aryna Sabalenka. The duo confidently faced Naomi Osaka and Mardy Fish in a riveting doubles face-off.
The pre-match excitement was palpable as Agassi expressed his confidence in his partnership with Sabalenka. He playfully commented, “We’re better because of my partner; I’m already sweating being this close to her.” The pair did not disappoint, delivering a thrilling performance that had fans on the edge of their seats. Adding to the spectacle was Agassi’s daughter, Jaz Agassi, who enthusiastically cheered her father from the stands.
The MGM Rewards Slam, initially slated as a two-day spectacle, had its second day indefinitely postponed. Nevertheless, the opening night exceeded expectations as Agassi and Sabalenka emerged victorious over Osaka and Fish.
Jaz Agassi showed her unwavering support for her father and Sabalenka during the match. Beyond the court, she took to social media to share a video of the exciting doubles game and a heartwarming picture of herself with Sabalenka, further underlining the close ties formed during the event.
Recently, Jaz and her elder brother, Jaden, were seen supporting their parents at Pickleball Slam 3 where Agassi and his wife, Steffi Graf, showcased their skills against Andy Roddick and Eugenie Bouchard. Following the Agassi-Graf triumph, the family shared a celebratory photo. Married in 2001, Agassi and Graf have two children, Jaden Gil Agassi, who pursues a career in baseball, and Jaz Elle Agassi, who maintains a low-key social media presence.
Beyond the doubles match, Sabalenka displayed her prowess in a singles match against Osaka. The World No.1 secured a 6-4, 6-3 win, taking home the trophy. Her performance caught Agassi’s attention, leading him to share insights on areas Sabalenka could refine in her game.
Sabalenka, despite a strong start to the year with a third appearance in the Australian Open final, has experienced a slight slump in form. She shockingly revealed a lack of “hunger” on the court, which was underscored by a first-round defeat against Ekaterina Alexandrova and a second-round loss to Clara Tauson in Dubai.
Agassi, commenting on Sabalenka’s game, praised her power and skill, but also highlighted an area for potential improvement. He suggested her swings, while impressive, might be too forceful, and that reducing the force to 85% could enhance her directional control without compromising her effectiveness. He also noted changes in her serve, specifically her toss, and expressed an interest in exploring that further.
Sabalenka will next compete in Indian Wells, commencing on March 5, where her best performance was a runner-up finish in 2023. It remains to be seen whether she will incorporate Agassi’s suggestions into her gameplay, or continue with her signature high-powered style.