Pete Sampras Got Into Donald Young's Kitchen

Donald Young, the promising junior talent touted by John McEnroe who failed to live up to the hype when he turned pro in 2004, finally managed to deliver on that promise, defeating world number five Andy Murray 7-6 (4), 6-3, in the 2nd round of the BNP Paribas Open.  Prior to this win, the highest ranked player he had defeated was Felicano Lopez in 2008. 

So what caused the turn-around for the 21 year-old player who on his Twitter account recently used the hashtag #secondcoming?"  (If you aren't familiar with Twitter lingo and therefore don't know what a hashtag is click here.)

Pete Sampras got into his kitchen.

Young, who has recently been working with the USTA coaches on his fitness as well as hitting with Mardy Fish and Sam Querrey, had the opportunity to hit with his idol Pete Sampras in the off-season.  And Pete apparently enjoys a bit of gamesmanship. 

In his post-match press conference Donald said:

It was great . He beat me in a groundstroke game. He gave me a lot of crap for it. He was talking a lot of trash. He calls me princess and he talks a lot of stuff. He says it's all in jest. It was a different side. First of all, I didn't know whether to take it serious or not. I was kind of psyched out. He still plays well. He told me he expected to see good things from me and for me to get better. I took it to heart. He calls it getting in my kitchen. He is obviously a great player. I look up to him. He's my favorite player. Amazing to be on the same court.

Up next for Donald Young is Tommy Robredo, who in their last meeting back in 2009, won in 4 sets.  So Pete, please stay in his kitchen, and while you're there can you grab me some popcorn?  Because I'm entertained.

Post-match quotes via Tennis.com

Photo via Getty Images