Pete Sampras Wins 13th Slam and 7th Wimbledon Crown in 2002

Pete Sampras made history on July 7, 2002, by winning his 13th Grand Slam singles title and equaling William Renshaw’s record of seven Wimbledon men’s singles crowns. The American defeated Australia’s Pat Rafter 6-7 (10/12), 7-6 (7/5), 6-4, 6-2 in a rain-interrupted match lasting 2 hours and 57 minutes.

How did Sampras overcome Rafter?

Sampras struggled early, losing the first set in a tiebreak, but gradually found his rhythm. Two breaks in the fourth set sealed his victory. Despite a shin tendon injury earlier in the tournament, the 28-year-old dominated the final sets, firing 27 aces.

Why was this win special for Sampras?

This was the first time Sampras’ parents, Sam and Gloria, watched him win a Grand Slam final. They had flown in for the match, and he celebrated by hugging them in the crowd. His girlfriend, Bridgett Wilson, was also courtside.

What records did Sampras break?

Sampras surpassed Roy Emerson’s record of 12 Grand Slam titles and matched Renshaw’s seven Wimbledon wins. He also earned $700,000, pushing his career earnings past $40 million. 'It means so much to me,' he said. 'My parents were here today. They can share this with me.'