Federer beats Sampras in backyard battle

INDIAN WELLS, CALIFORNIA: Roger Federer took great delight in beating his childhood idol Pete Sampras at the American player's home in a friendly match during his build-up to the Pacific Life Open.

The two met only once on the ATP circuit, in the fourth round of Wimbledon in 2001 when Federer triumphed 7-5 in the fifth set.   

"Beating him in his backyard in Wimbledon was so special to me so I wanted to beat him in his house," a beaming Federer told reporters on Friday.

The Swiss maestro spent two days hitting with Sampras while visiting the 35-year-old former world number one at his Beverly Hills home in Los Angeles.

"It was great," Federer said. "I knew I was coming to LA so I'm kind of thinking: ''Who's around in LA?''   

"I rang up Pete and asked: ''Any chance?'' He was like: ''Yeah, sure.''   

"I was totally excited because he was one my favourite players when I was growing up."   

Sampras, who won 14 grand slam titles and more than $43 million in prize money during a 15-year career, retired after winning the 2002 US Open final against compatriot Andre Agassi.

Federer's five-set victory at Wimbledon in 2001 ended Sampras's 31-match winning streak at the All England Club.

"It was very enjoyable to actually hit with him, you know," the 25-year-old Swiss said.

"It would be kind of cool to maybe play an exhibition against him. We''ll see. He was playing very well, but not good enough to beat me," world number one Federer added with a broad smile.

Asked for the final score, he replied: "I can''t tell you. But it was good fun. We did play some games and sets and tiebreakers.

"I'm happy to see that he's actually still enjoying tennis. He's probably back into tennis after being golfed out."