Sampras Opts Out

05/21/1999 at 12:00 AM EDT

Pete Sampras, the world's top-ranked tennis player, withdrew from the Australian Open championships in Perth this weekend, telling tournament organizers he is mentally and physically fatigued. Tournament director Paul McNamee said Sampras' manager told him of the player's decision. The 27-year-old American played seven tournaments in Europe during October and November in a successful bid to hold on to his top ranking. But his effort to finish the year as the No. 1 player for a record sixth straight time took its toll. "He obviously had a very long end of the year, and he's pretty worn out and needs to take a rest," McNamee said.