Why Steve Johnson Calls Andre Agassi Mr. Vegas: With eight Grand Slam titles, an Olympic gold medal, and a storied career as World No. 1, Andre Agassi has firmly established himself as a tennis legend. Yet, beyond his accomplishments on the court, Agassi’s charismatic energy and unmatched hospitality have earned him admiration off the court as well. Recently, former ATP player Steve Johnson humorously dubbed Agassi “Mr. Vegas,” citing his vibrant personality and hospitality as ideal for a trip to Las Vegas.
During a November 30 episode of the Nothing Major podcast, Johnson participated in a Snake Draft game where participants selected tennis players from 2000 to the present as hypothetical party companions. When it was Johnson’s turn, he confidently chose Agassi, explaining,
“I’m going to go a little old school with this one. I’m going to go with Andre Agassi as an owner of a nightclub in Vegas.” – (Johnson)
“Look, he owns the club. Like, he is Mr. Vegas. So you know, you feel like you’re going to be well taken care of. There’s going to be no issues, you know, getting in anywhere, whatever it might be.” – (Johnson)
Agassi’s connection to Las Vegas runs deep. He and his wife, Steffi Graf, previously co-owned the Pure Nightclub at Caesars Palace, further solidifying his status as a Vegas icon.
From Tennis Champion to Pickleball Player
Since retiring in 2006, Agassi has found a new passion: pickleball. His competitive spirit and love for the game have translated into significant achievements in this emerging sport. In April 2023, Agassi and Andy Roddick clinched the first Pickleball Slam title in Las Vegas. The pair delivered an exhilarating victory against John McEnroe and Maria Sharapova, winning in straight sets, 11-7 and 13-11.
“But with pickleball, if I say the best are playing down the street, you’d say, ‘Well, what about us? What about our game? We want to play.’ It’s a real participation-centric activity.” – (Agassi)
Agassi, along with Graf, continues to compete, with plans to defend their title in February 2024. His passion extends beyond playing, as he actively promotes pickleball’s growth. At Life Time’s New York City pickleball event, Agassi praised the sport’s accessibility and its ability to foster participation. “Pickleball is a real participation-centric activity,” he remarked, emphasizing how the sport engages players and spectators.
“If you have your weekend-warrior match in tennis and I give you tickets to Alcaraz-Nadal playing down the street, you’re going to give up playing to watch.” – (Agassi)
Agassi’s Growing Advocacy for Pickleball
Agassi’s enthusiasm for pickleball is noticeable. Reflecting on its appeal, he noted, “I love watching pickleball, but only until I get to that point of wanting to go play it.” His growing involvement has helped spotlight the sport, blending his competitive nature with his enduring influence from tennis.
As pickleball continues to surge in popularity, Agassi’s contributions could prove pivotal in shaping its future. Whether as a player or advocate, his legacy is expanding into a new arena, showing the same passion that defined his tennis career.
News in Brief: Why Steve Johnson Calls Andre Agassi Mr. Vegas
Andre Agassi, renowned for his tennis legacy and vibrant personality, was humorously hailed as “Mr. Vegas” by former ATP pro-Steve Johnson for his hospitality. On the Nothing Major podcast, Johnson selected Agassi as his ideal party companion.
Agassi’s post-tennis journey includes a growing passion for pickleball, where he’s not only won titles but also champions the sport’s rising appeal. He and his wife Steffi Graf continue to compete, inspiring a new generation of players in this fast-growing game.
ALSO READ: Andre Agassi’s Role in Pickleball’s Explosive Growth
