Andre Agassi, the former tennis star known for his remarkable career and personal struggles, has found renewed purpose through family ties and friendship, while quietly engaging with the growing sport of pickleball. Agassi’s journey, marked by highs and lows on and off the court, continues to evolve in a way that balances public visibility with a focus on personal life.
Agassi’s relationship with former tennis great Steffi Graf has been a defining feature of his life over the past two decades. The two began dating seriously in 1999, shortly after Graf retired from professional tennis, following Agassi’s divorce from Brooke Shields. Their bond has remained steadfast; Agassi credits Graf for providing stability and support during some of his most challenging times. The couple now resides in Las Vegas, a relocation partly influenced by Graf’s previous ties to the United States from her training days in Florida.
The former world No. 1 has candidly discussed his complicated feelings toward tennis, telling friends that he disliked the sport despite his success—a sentiment met with understanding from Graf. The pair often appear together at tennis-related events, blending into the crowd as they balance their public personas with family life.
Another key figure in Agassi’s recent period of re-engagement is Justin Gimelstob, a longtime friend and former practice partner. Their friendship endured despite periods of separation, rekindled during the COVID-19 pandemic. Gimelstob, who faced legal and professional setbacks after a 2018 assault charge that led to his resignation from the Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP) board and a commentary role at the Tennis Channel, reached out to Agassi through their families’ shared interest in youth sports.
Together, Agassi and Gimelstob have spent time watching their sons play baseball, conversing about fatherhood and life, and taking up pickleball, a sport that has rapidly gained popularity among athletes and amateurs alike. The Carvana PPA Tour, pickleball’s largest competitive circuit, attracted approximately 27,000 amateur players last year, highlighting the sport’s broad appeal. Agassi has received numerous invitations to participate, signaling his gradual involvement.
During this period, Agassi’s longtime manager, Miller, faced a battle with cancer. Gimelstob stepped in informally to assist with Agassi’s professional commitments amid these challenges, exemplifying the trust and support within their friendship.
Beyond sports, Gimelstob has encouraged Agassi to explore opportunities in Hollywood, a prospect that has gained momentum since the publication of Agassi’s memoir. The book, which detailed his personal struggles including a period of methamphetamine use and a dramatic career decline before returning to the Top 10, has sparked interest in potential media projects.
Overall, Agassi’s current life reflects a blend of private dedication and selective public engagement, shaped by enduring relationships and new ventures in sport and entertainment.
