From an early age, Sampras showed signs of outstanding athletic ability. The young Sampras discovered a tennis racquet in the basement of his home and spent hours hitting balls against the wall. In 1978, the Sampras family moved to Palos Verdes, California, and the warmer climate there allowed seven-year-old Pete to play more tennis. The Sampras family joined the Peninsula Racquet Club, where they played a great deal of tennis together. It was here that Pete's ability became apparent. At the age of 11 he had already learned the solid serve and volley tactic that would become the hallmark of his game. He was spotted by Dr. Peter Fisher, a pediatrician and a tennis enthusiast, who became his mentor for a long part of his career. He oversaw his training and arranged coaches. He changed from a two-handed to one-handed backhand in 1987. Grew up idolizing Rod Laver, and often watched tapes of him. Enjoys playing golf to six handicap (won celebrity Long Drive contest, 332 yards, in Lake Tahoe, Nev., in July 1996), Formula I racing and an avid fan of Los Angeles Lakers (NBA).
Pete is the son of Greek immigrants Sam and Georgia. His parents do not watch Sampras play often because it makes them nervous but they attended their son's Grand Slam record-breaking title performance at Wimbledon in 2000. Older sister Stella is head coach at UCLA. Younger sister Marion is a teacher in Los Angeles. Older brother Gus is tournament director at Scottsdale ATP event. On September 30, 2000, Sampras married American actress Bridgette Wilson. On November 21, 2002, son Christian Charles, was born. On July 29, 2005, the couple welcomed their second son, Ryan Nikolaos.
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