Cypriot tennis legend Marcos Baghdatis competed against former world No.1 Andre Agassi in an exhibition game in Limassol on Wednesday.
The two players treated the crowd to a thrilling match filled with skill, sportsmanship, and light-hearted moments.
The game marked the official opening of the Marcos Baghdatis Tennis Academy at the City of Dreams Mediterranean.
After the match, Marcos Baghdatis paid tribute to Agassi, describing him as a source of inspiration throughout his life. Agassi’s last professional career victory came against a 19-year-old Baghatis in the U.S. Open in 2006.
Baghdatis said: “This day is the beginning of an exciting new journey, and I couldn’t imagine a more fitting way to celebrate this special day than by sharing the court with my childhood idol. Tennis has been more than a sport for me. It has shaped who I am, guided me through challenges, and given me some of my greatest joys. It brought me together with my wonderful wife, Karolina, who has also dedicated her life to this sport. Together with our incredible coaching team and dedicated staff, we aim to create an environment where every young person, teenager, or adult can come, not only to learn and improve their tennis skills but also to enjoy the journey, have fun, and be part of a larger tennis community.”
The Marcos Baghdatis Tennis Academy at the City of Dreams Mediterranean, which features 12 tennis courts, is the centrepiece of the resort’s tennis facilities. It offers tennis coaching for players of all levels, from beginner to elite, and helps elevate the overall level of tennis in Cyprus by focusing on players’ athletic and academic development.
Speaking at the event, Melco Resorts & Entertainment Chairman and CEO, Lawrence Ho, praised the two players for their careers, which inspired hundreds of younger athletes to take up tennis.
“The Marcos Baghdatis Tennis Academy is more than just a sports facility—it is a testament to the commitment we share with Marcos to create a place where young people can nurture their talent, develop a love for tennis, and turn their dreams into reality. Our goal is simple: to inspire, to support, and to provide the foundation where dreams are built. We want this academy to become a beacon for aspiring athletes, a place where potential is honed, and where we can shape not just future champions but also instil in them the values of discipline, perseverance, and teamwork.”
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