Robbers clean up Sampras showcase

The 39-year-old told the ‘Los Angeles Times’ the unexplained theft occurred last month in west Los Angeles. “Losing this stuff is like having the history of my tennis life taken away,” he said.

But the American, who retired in 2002 with a then-record 14 Grand Slam titles, still has 13 of his trophies from the majors, which were not inside the units. His 1994 Australian Open trophy however is among those stolen. “For me to have it for my kids is priceless. I just hope it hasn’t already been destroyed. That’s why I wanted to get the word out now. I know this is a long-shot, but I’d regret it if I didn’t at least try. Maybe somebody knows something. That’s all I can hope for. “I’m not one to gloat about trophies, or show them off,” he added.

“I’ve never been like that. I just want them for my kids to see. They didn’t see me play, but I’d like them to see these things.”