Steffi Graf Slams Modern Tennis: ‘It’s Not About the Money—Here’s How the Game Really Changed My Life’

Steffi Graf Opens Up on Modern Tennis and How the Sport Transformed Her Life Beyond Wealth

When I step back and look at the world of tennis today, it’s almost unrecognizable from the era I once dominated. The game has evolved in ways I could never have imagined during my playing days. But one thing remains constant: tennis is more than just a sport. It’s a journey, a teacher, and a force that shapes lives. For me, it was never just about the trophies, the records, or the money. Tennis changed my life in ways that go far beyond material success.

Growing up in Germany, tennis was my escape, my passion, and my purpose. From the moment I picked up a racket, I felt a connection to the game that went beyond the court. It taught me discipline, resilience, and the value of hard work. Every match, every setback, and every victory was a lesson in perseverance. I learned to push through pain, both physical and emotional, and to rise above challenges. Those lessons have stayed with me long after I retired.

The modern game is fascinating to watch. Players today are stronger, faster, and more athletic than ever before. The technology, the training methods, and the level of competition have all reached new heights. But with these advancements come new pressures. The spotlight is brighter, the expectations are higher, and the demands on players are immense. I often wonder how I would have navigated this new landscape. Would I have thrived under the constant scrutiny of social media and the 24/7 news cycle? It’s hard to say.

What I do know is that tennis gave me a platform to grow not just as an athlete, but as a person. It taught me the importance of balance—between ambition and humility, between competition and compassion. I’ve always believed that success is not measured by titles or bank accounts, but by the impact you have on others and the legacy you leave behind. Tennis allowed me to connect with people around the world, to inspire young players, and to give back through my foundation.

One of the most profound ways tennis changed my life was through the relationships it brought into my world. It introduced me to my husband, Andre Agassi, and together we’ve built a life centered around family, philanthropy, and a shared love for the sport. Our children are growing up with tennis as a part of their lives, and it’s incredible to see how the game continues to bring people together.

To the players of today, I would say this: embrace the journey. Tennis will test you, challenge you, and push you to your limits. But it will also reward you in ways you can’t yet imagine. It’s not just about the money or the fame—it’s about the person you become along the way.

As I reflect on my career and the evolution of the sport, I feel immense gratitude. Tennis gave me a platform, a purpose, and a perspective that has shaped every aspect of my life. It’s a gift that keeps on giving, and I hope that future generations of players will find the same joy, growth, and fulfillment in the game that I did.

So, when I talk about modern tennis, it’s not just as a former champion, but as someone whose life was profoundly transformed by this incredible sport. Tennis is more than a game—it’s a way of life. And for that, I will always be thankful.

– Steffi Graf