trade decline: tennis superstar Steffi Graf Turns down $176.3 …
August 13, 1999. Heidelberg, Germany. The woman made her voice heard, even though she had always been content to let her racquet do the talking. Later on, she would want to go by Stefanie Graf. But now, as it had been every day of her career, she was Steffi, the ultimate professional with the forehand that was as sharp as a laser, the backhand that was as keen as a scalpel, and the feet that pounded like pistons.
They had traveled a great distance. As a bright 13-year-old who had previously been hailed by Billie Jean King, Graf turned professional in 1982. Her ascent had been rapid. Graf accomplished a spectacular “Golden Slam” in 1988 while still in her teens by winning the Olympics’ singles competition in addition to all four majors. She gave it her all during the ensuing ten years. Graf had amassed what was then an Open era record 21 Grand Slam singles championships by the end of 1996.
The following two years were unpleasant. Graf had missed a substantial portion of 1997 and 1998 due to injuries. Graf’s time seemed to be over, with adolescent sensations like Serena Williams, Venus Williams, and Martina Hingis rising to prominence. She had yet to win a tournament in 1999’s first five months.
I am heading to Wimbledon. Graf, who was motivated, advanced to the finals but lost to Davenport in two close sets. But after everything was done, she said something important. Graf stated, “I basically will not be returning to Wimbledon as a player.” “I do not think anything has to be clarified. Beyond that, I will not commit to anything. Although I am a little depressed right now, I feel okay about everything.