Steffi Graf’s epic reaction to Wimbledon fan’s shock proposal before Andre Agassi marriage

Steffi Graf’s epic reaction to Wimbledon fan’s shock proposal before Andre Agassi marriage

A fan proposed to the legendary tennis player in 1996 

Megan Bull

Steffi Graf was game for a proposal after a fan popped the question at Wimbledon. Back in 1996, the tennis star played along when a spectator shouted “Steffi, will you marry me?” on Centre Court.

Taking the proposal in her stride, Steffi – who was in the middle of a semi-final match with Kimiko Date – had an epic response. “How much money do you have?” she quipped, sending the crowds into hysterics. Click the video below for a glimpse of the iconic moment…

Steffi Graf responds to fan’s marriage proposal at Wimbledon

While Steffi went on to lose the match, the tennis star remained in good spirits and joked that the proposal had thrown her off. “I lost the game, so I think I’ll ask for a divorce now,” she said, per the New York Times.

Forever immortalised, Steffi’s witty response came five years before her real-life marriage to fellow tennis champion and Olympic gold medalist, Andre Agassi. Introduced at Wimbledon in 1992, the couple didn’t start dating until 1999.

© Ethan Miller

Steffi married fellow tennis champion Andre Agassi in 2001

By 2001, Andre and Steffi had tied the knot in a low-key ceremony at their house. That same year their son, Jaden Gil Agassi, was born in October, and by 2003, the couple had welcomed their daughter, Jaz Elle Agassi.

Well-accustomed to the spotlight, Steffi and Andre are pros at interacting with fans, and when Steffi received another proposal at the 2024 Cluj exhibition, she and her husband took it in their stride.

In a hilarious moment, Steffi declined the proposal, wagging her finger at the spectator before pointing to Andre who was just a few feet away.

While Steffi and Andre are notoriously private when it comes to their relationship, the couple have spoken about one another in interviews. Back in March 2024, Andre joined E!, where he opened up about their marriage. “We love cooking together. We love hiking together. We love even grocery shopping together, dividing and conquering. So it’s real life. And we’re blessed,” he began.

© JLN Photography/Shutterstock

Andre has revealed the secrets to their 23-year marriage

Asked for the secret to their marriage, Andre replied: “Choose wisely. No, I mean, I think it’s like success in life or in anything you do. I think there’s a determination you have to be in the most of yourself, in balance of the most of what somebody needs from you, giving what it is you have to give and not attempting to give what you don’t.

“There’s a respect, there’s a discipline, there’s a commitment,” he continued. “And then you need two that are doing that, everything else will get in balance. And we work on it every day, and I’ll never stop.”

 The 10 Greatest Wimbledon Players of All Time

Wimbledon, the oldest and most prestigious tennis tournament, has seen countless legends grace its grass courts. From the era-defining champions of the past to the modern-day greats, Wimbledon has been the stage for some of the most memorable moments in tennis history. Here, we celebrate the ten greatest Wimbledon players of all time, whose exceptional skills and achievements have left an indelible mark on the tournament.

1. Roger Federer
Roger Federer is often referred to as the “King of Grass.” With a record eight Wimbledon titles to his name, Federer’s elegance and precision on the court have made him a favorite at the All England Club. His epic battles, especially against Rafael Nadal, have become a significant part of Wimbledon lore.

2. Steffi Graf
Steffi Graf’s dominance in the late 1980s and early 1990s solidified her place among the Wimbledon greats. With seven Wimbledon titles, Graf’s powerful forehand and athleticism allowed her to dominate her opponents. Her Golden Slam in 1988, where she won all four Grand Slam titles and the Olympic gold medal, remains a remarkable achievement in tennis history.

3. Pete Sampras
Pete Sampras, with his formidable serve-and-volley game, was nearly unbeatable on grass. Winning seven Wimbledon titles in the 1990s, Sampras set a then-record for most men’s singles titles at the tournament. His rivalry with Andre Agassi provided fans with some unforgettable matches.

4. Serena Williams
Serena Williams’ power and athleticism have made her a formidable force on grass courts. With seven Wimbledon titles, Serena’s dominance in the 21st century is unmatched. Her ability to rise to the occasion and deliver under pressure has made her one of the all-time greats in tennis.

5. Björn Borg
Björn Borg’s cool demeanor and exceptional baseline play earned him five consecutive Wimbledon titles from 1976 to 1980. His rivalry with John McEnroe, particularly their 1980 final, is considered one of the greatest matches in tennis history. Borg’s influence on the game remains significant even today.

6. Martina Navratilova

Martina Navratilova’s name is synonymous with Wimbledon success. Winning a record nine women’s singles titles, Navratilova’s versatility and skill on grass were unparalleled. Her intense rivalry with Chris Evert added extra excitement to the tournament during their era.

7. Rafael Nadal
Rafael Nadal, known primarily for his clay-court prowess, has also made a significant impact at Wimbledon. With two titles, Nadal’s tenacity and never-give-up attitude have led to some of the most thrilling matches at the tournament, including his legendary 2008 final against Federer.

8. Rod Laver
Rod Laver, the only player to win two calendar-year Grand Slams, was a formidable competitor at Wimbledon. With four titles to his name, Laver’s all-court game and sportsmanship have made him an enduring icon in tennis.

9. Venus Williams
Venus Williams, with five Wimbledon titles, has been a dominant force in women’s tennis for over two decades. Her powerful serve and graceful movement on grass have made her a perennial contender at the All England Club.

10. Billie Jean King
Billie Jean King’s impact on and off the court is legendary. With six singles titles at Wimbledon, King’s aggressive play and pioneering efforts for gender equality in sports have cemented her legacy as one of the greatest and most influential players in tennis history.

These ten players have not only achieved remarkable success at Wimbledon but have also contributed to the rich history and tradition of this prestigious tournament. Their performances have inspired generations of tennis players and fans alike, making Wimbledon the iconic event it is today.