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My old editor always said that I should try to write like anyone, it should be J.R. Moehringer. So when this book came out--even though I'm a sub-par tennis player--I was excited. The second piece of information that made me want to read this book was Jara's review: "After finishing this I appreciate Agassi more as a human than a tennis player." That got me really curious.

A couple things that stood out to me after reading this: Agassi loses--a lot. Over and over and over. Yes there are the few sweet rushes of relief when he finally defeats Becker and wins various grand slams, but the predominant motif seems to be about loss. And of course, getting back up again.

After reading this book, I respect him most for his tenacity and for his ability to thrash his way forward even though he has no idea who he is as a person for much of the book. I was also impressed by his ability to tinker with his own winning formula. Agassi never seemed to loiter, he was always adjusting his team and his technique as he pursued his goals. He's (obviously) a formidable competitor, but it's interesting to see what traits, regardless of whether he liked tennis or not, helped him move forward.

I love his originality, his ability to remain true to his essence, and his kind heart. If I had to choose between Sampras and Agassi to invite to a dinner party, it would be Agassi any day.