Tracy Austin’s Early Remarks About Steffi Graf and the Resentment That Followed

 

The relationship between Tracy Austin and Steffi Graf, two of tennis’s most iconic players, was marked by an early comment from Austin that led to lasting tension—especially with Graf’s father, Peter. Though the two would face off only twice during their careers, their brief encounters became part of tennis lore, particularly due to one dismissive remark that would follow Graf throughout her rise to greatness.

Graf’s Debut and Austin’s Dismissal

Steffi Graf made her professional debut in 1982 at just 13 years old, at the Filderstadt tournament in Germany. It was a highly anticipated moment in tennis history, but the young German’s first match against former World No. 1 Tracy Austin was far from a fairy tale. Austin, a two-time US Open champion and seasoned pro, defeated Graf in straight sets, 6-4, 6-0.

After the match, the German press sought Austin’s opinion on Graf’s potential, asking whether the teenager could one day become World No. 1. Austin’s response, however, was less than encouraging. She claimed, “There are a hundred like her back in the States,” downplaying the notion that Graf could rise to the top of the tennis world. At the time, Austin’s dismissive words seemed relatively harmless, but they would become a source of contention in the years to come.

The Resentment Builds: Peter Graf’s Grudge

While many brushed off Austin’s comment as an offhand remark, Peter Graf, Steffi’s father, was not so easily dismissive.

A man fiercely protective of his daughter, Peter took offense to the suggestion that Steffi wasn’t anything special. By 1989, when Steffi had already won six Grand Slam titles and had firmly established herself as the World No. 1 player, Peter admitted to *Sports Illustrated* that he had never forgotten Austin’s words.

“I never forget this remark,” Peter said, underlining how deeply the comment had affected him. His resentment was personal, as he had always believed in Steffi’s exceptional potential, and Austin’s dismissal of that potential stung.

A Humble Reflection: The 1994 Evert Cup

Despite the lingering tension, the two players would meet again at the 1994 Evert Cup. By then, Steffi Graf had not only become the World No. 1 but had also won six Grand Slam titles, completed the historic Golden Slam in 1988, and had established herself as one of the greatest players in history. In this second meeting, Graf dominated, winning 6-0, 6-0 in a crushing display of her power and precision.

After the match, Austin, who had long since recognized Graf’s greatness, reflected on her earlier remarks with good humor. Jokingly, she said, “Maybe I should get some of the credit (for her rise to No. 1). Maybe I made her mad and motivated her. Maybe she could share her trophies with me.” Austin also recalled being taken aback by Graf’s raw power in their first encounter, noting, “I couldn’t believe it. I said to myself, ‘Who is this kid?’”

Legacy: Austin’s Respect for Graf

In the years that followed, Austin would express deep admiration for Graf’s achievements. Reflecting on Graf’s 22 Grand Slam titles and her consistency across all surfaces, Austin acknowledged that it would be difficult to rank any other player higher than Steffi. Her early doubts had long been replaced by respect for the German’s unmatched career.

Austin’s remarks, though initially seen as dismissive, became a part of the narrative that shaped Steffi Graf’s legendary rise, turning what was once a point of contention into a story of growth, humility, and mutual respect.