German tennis legend Boris Becker paid tribute to seven-time Wimbledon champion Pete Sampras as the American ace prepared to hang up his racquet.

"I have great respect for his decision," three-time Wimbledon winner Becker told German news agency DPA.

"But what can be nicer than ending your career with a Grand Slam victory?

Sampras had a number of duels with Becker, 35, during his tennis career and the German is in no doubt that the man who has won a record 14 Grand Slam titles is the greatest player ever.

"In Pete Sampras the best tennis player of all time is retiring," lauded Becker.

"For me the match against Pete in the 1996 Hannover Masters was unforgettable.

"Even though I lost the final it was perhaps the best match of my life."

Sampras triumphed 3-6 7-6 7-6 6-7 6-4 in a five-set classic in Germany.

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