By Mason Haynes

Last Saturday was beautiful and sunny day while two world-famous tennis players competed at The Greenbrier resort. Andy Roddick is the former number one ranking world tennis player who faced Patrick Rafter in a scrimmage match.

Roddick won the 2003 U.S. Open Championship and was a finalist in other Grand Slam tournaments. He also has won 23 ATP World Tour Titles and was honored as “Sexiest Man Alive” by People magazine.

Roddick defeated Rafter in a 10-point tiebreaker with a phenomenal finish.  Both candidates spoke highly of the other, especially Roddick who is a big fan of Rafter, said he was pleased that he gained the opportunity to face him in an actual tennis match.

“Pat is such a cool guy,” Roddick said. “He’s one of the guys you look up to and for all of the success he is such a cool dude. I have not spent much time with him but I watch him and I admire the way he plays.”

Roddick discussed his future plans of returning to The Greenbrier resort. He said he likes the layout of the tennis court since it helps to create a positive atmosphere for competitive tennis matches.

“I know the players that come here and the convenience of the hotel would be able to settle in really good and it would certainly be a good environment to play in,” Roddick said.  “I like the idea that The Greenbrier invites such high-level talent to their resort and I look forward to coming back”.

Although Roddick is well known as a world-class tennis champion, he has retired and intends to be more relaxed as he steps out on the court.

“When you retire it changes the dynamic, and I think that the people want to see more of my personality and the one thing I love is to do is argue with the referee and I tend to do that a lot,” Roddick said.

Overall Roddick has won five ATP Masters Championships and 612 wins in his tennis career.