Dunlop Promotion, 1997

You're known to be one of the most powerful players on the Tour; especially since you blew Pete Sampras off the court. Do you think this has caused other competitors to fear you?

Philippoussis: I'm not sure that fear is the proper word, at least at this point in my career. Let's just say I've become respected, especially for my serve. My wins over Sampras and some of the others not only helped my self-confidence but also established that, on any given day, I can be tough to beat.

Do you remember what you said to The Washington Post following your victory over Sampras?

Philippoussis: Almost verbatim, I think: I said I wanted to get out there fresh, and that's just what didn't happen. I was nervous, my feet wouldn't move properly, you name it. Being down two sets to love against the number-one guy won't work, pure and simple. But finally I settled down and started to have fun with what I was doing. As I recall I said something like, "You never know what can happen."

Many observers believe it's just a matter of time til you're ranked in the top 10, not to mention win a Grand Slam. What will it take for you to do that?

Philippoussis: Lately I've been concentrating very hard on my footwork and my game plan. Given my size, if I'm to continue to play aggressively, it's important that I move and react swiftly on the court. At the same time, I need to approach each match with a clear plan in mind rather than simply try to overpower my opponent.

Does your game hinge on your serve?

Philippoussis: I'd like to think I have more going for myself than that. I hit hard topspin ground strokes off both wings, and I've been working very hard on my net movement. There are far too many dangerously talented athletes on the Tour for me to succeed on the basis of nothing but my serve.

Are you ever overwhelmed by all the media attention? Does it interfere with leading a normal life?

Philippoussis: Frankly it can make things quite difficult. I'm a pretty basic guy, and at times I just want to go have a beer with my mates. But I realize I'm really lucky to have achieved so much success and recognition at this point in my career.

What three things best describe your personality

Philippoussis: One, despite what many people think, I'm actually rather shy. Two, I really enjoy going out and relaxing with friends. Three, I love being aggressive - I think you can see that in the way I serve, but it also comes out when I'm driving a race car or playing basketball.

What's the public's biggest misperception about you?

Philippoussis: Probably that I suddenly burst onto the scene out of nowhere. The fact is I've been playing competitive tennis since I was about 8 and have worked very hard, year in and year out. Finally it all started to pay off. I switched to a new Dunlop racquet and found I was truly comfortable with it. Not only did my serves really start to pop, but I could see my power become controllable.

Have you chosen personal goals for 1998?

Philippoussis: First and foremost is to have fun playing tennis: I consider myself very lucky to have a successful career at something I dearly love. Next, making it at least to the semifinals of Grand Slam would be nice. Finally, I will just go out there and play my game.