CNNSI Host: Welcome to today's tennis chat with Andy Roddick. Hi Andy. Thanks for joining us.
Andy Roddick: Thanks.
From Dave in Stockbridge, Ga.: A lot of people compare you to Agassi. What do you think? What is it like playing against him?
Andy Roddick: Hi, Dave. That's a flattering comparison. We play sort of similar, but we have some differences, also. It was a dream come true to play against him because he's been around ever since I remember watching or playing tennis. Yes, we have a pretty strong group going over.
From Guest: Are there any Americans besides yourself who have a real shot at winning the French Open?
Andy Roddick: Robbie Ginepri has been playing pretty well. Alex Bogomolov has been around a while and playing Grand Slams for a while. He's ready for a break out.
From Guest: What is the most important training tip you would offer to a junior player?
Andy Roddick: Just always work hard and listen to those that are trying to help you.
From Ryan in N.J.: When did you get started playing? And how did you get so good so fast?
Andy Roddick: Hi, Ryan. I started playing around seven years old. I started taking is serious when I was 11 or 12. I put in the work every day. It didn't happen overnight. It takes a committed effort every day.
From Guest: You have been all over the world. Any good stories from any of your trips?
Andy Roddick: There are tons of good stories. Something good happens almost every night when you're just hanging out. No specific story, but when there a bunch of junior players from all over the world, they try to keep it interesting.
From Bill in New Orleans, La.: You still have your whole career ahead of you, but what short and long term goals have you set for yourself?
Andy Roddick: Hi, Bill. I'm just going to try to take the opportunities as they come and take advantage of them. One of my long-term goals is to play Davis Cup.
From Clark: How did you feel when you stepped onto the court to play Andre at the Ericcson?
Andy Roddick: It was really exciting because it was nighttime. When we walked out of the tunnel all of the people were yelling and screaming. I had to keep my eyes down on to prevent myself from staring around in amazement.
From Brian in Cranbury, N.J.: Do you feel like there is a lot of pressure on you as you are the first true Great American prospect? Not to put more pressure on you, but Tennis needs you! America needs you!
Andy Roddick: No, I feel more like it is an honor. I think it's an advantage because people know you're coming and that you're going to go for them. I don't feel any added pressure.
From Guest: Besides practicing on the clay courts is there any other changes you use when training for the clay court season. In other words what type of exercises do you do for the clay court season?
Andy Roddick: You always have to stretch more because the clay is harder on your legs. Also you try to do more fitness and get your legs in better shape because you'll be hitting more balls than you would on a harder or grass court.
From Byron in Augusta, Ga.: What is the best part of playing pro at such a young age? What is the worse?
Andy Roddick: The best part about it is you get to learn and make friends around the world. Not many 17 year olds get to have friends all over the world. The worst part is being away from your friends and family for extended periods of time.
From Jimmy in Atlanta: What players are you friends with. What do you do on your off-time at tournaments?
Andy Roddick: I get along with Todd Martin. I've known Paul Goldstein since I was really little. I got to know Andre, Pete and John McEnroe at David Cup and they're all really nice.
From Clark: If you could play someone from the WTA Tour, who would it be?
Andy Roddick: I don't want to play against any of them - they hit the ball too hard! *laughs*
From Linda in Calif.: Will you be going to college? Or are you going to concentrate on tennis.
Andy Roddick: I've turned pro, so college is out of the question. I'm just trying to focus on tennis now. It wouldn't surprise me if I went to college after my career was over, but I can't make predictions about the future.
From Guest: Were you sad to hear that Jim Courier was retiring from the game and does that make you apprehensive that Andre, Pete and Michael will soon be behind them leaving you as the great American hope?
Andy Roddick: Yes, it always sad to see a great champion and person retire like Courier. As far as Andre, Pete and Mike, they're still playing well. They're still in contention for all the Grand Slam titles, so their careers are still in their hands.
From Ronda in Iowa: Who was you biggest role model growing up. Tennis or in life?
Andy Roddick: I always looked up to my brother my John. He played tennis and went through the Juniors circuit. He really helped me out and showed me the ropes.
From Clark: Which Grand Slam would you like to win the most?
Andy Roddick: The US Open, for sure, in front of the home crowd.
From Clark: Who is the player you look up to the most and try to model your game after?
Andy Roddick: I look up to Pete and Andre, but I don't model my game after anybody. I try to make my own identity.
CNNSI Host: That's all the time we have for today. Thanks again for joining us, Andy. And good luck.
Andy Roddick: Thank you.
