"I knew from the first moment, it was immediately magic between us & still is": When Andre Agassi spoke about knowing Steffi Graf was his 'great love'

Andre Agassi once opened up about his instant connection with his wife, fellow tennis legend Steffi Graf. Graf, however, explained that it took her longer to recognize the American as the love of her life.

Agassi and Graf tied the knot in 2001 after two years of dating, welcoming their son Jaden that same year, followed by their daughter Jaz in 2003. The American had a crush on the 22-time Grand Slam champion long before they started dating, admitting to being "dazzled by her understated grace and effortless beauty" since he first saw her on French TV.

In a 2006 interview with Freundin, the couple was asked when they realized the other was their 'great love.' Andre Agassi revealed that he knew Steffi Graf was the one from the very first moment, describing their "magic" connection as something that has lasted over time.

"I knew it from the first moment. It was immediately magic between us -- and it still is today," Andre Agassi said.

Graf, on the other hand, confessed that it took her a bit longer to come to the realization due to her "reserved" personality, prompting Agassi to tease her for taking a decade longer than him.

"I already know you're a fast mover... [Both laugh.] Since I am somewhat more reserved, it took somewhat longer with me," Graf said.

"Yes, only ten years! [Steffi nudges Andre's side]," Agassi joked.

However, Steffi Graf clarified that she still quickly recognized their unique and special connection, crediting Andre Agassi for helping her navigate the new phase of her life after her shocking decision to retire during the 1999 season at the age of 30.

"No, that isn't true at all. Very quickly, it was also clear to me that something unique and totally special is with us. It just always depends on where you are in your life, whether you are ready for a relationship. I was at the end of my career in the summer of 1999. And at the time Andre really helped me find my way in my new phase of life," Graf said.

"That's when I got to know and love Steffi Graf" - Andre Agassi on 'magic moment' with German

Steffi Graf and Andre Agassi (Source: Getty)

During the same interview, Andre Agassi disclosed that although they saw each other at various tournaments over the years, they only got to know each other in the "truest sense" when he approached Steffi Graf after her triumph at the 1999 French Open.

From there, their relationship blossomed, as they began to meet during practice sessions and later in private, engaging in deep conversations. Agassi described this time as the "magic moment" when he came to love Graf.

"Of course we had seen each other over and over again for years at tournaments, but our paths never actually crossed there. We weren't really aware of each other, let alone spoke with each other. Only in 1999 in Paris did we get to know each other in the truest sense," Agassi said.

"We arranged to meet each other more often, first in practice, then privately, and had very serious conversations with each other. That's when I got to know and love the person Stefanie Graf. A magic moment for me!" he added.

Andre Agassi has never shied away from lavishing praise on his wife, often speaking about being inspired by Steffi Graf, particularly her remarkable ability to "confront her fears."