His troublesome back denied Agassi the opportunity of a farewell tour during the American hardcourt season but nothing would come between him and a last stand at the 2006 US Open.

Having played only 15 matches over the entire season, the 36-year-old was an underdog against Marcos Baghdatis in the second round but with the support of a raucous New York crowd, Agassi somehow lifted himself to an inspired five-set win.

He could not repeat the magic against Benjamin Becker in the next round but in between tears, he told an adoring crowd: "I will take you with me for the rest of my life."