Why did Steffi Graf break up with ex-F1 driver Michael Bartels to marry Andre Agassi in 1999?
Steffi Graf ended her seven-year-long relationship with Michael Bartels to get together with Andre Agassi.
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Michael Bartels [Via IMAGO] Steffi Graf and Andre Agassi (Via ElPais]
Steffi Graf is a global tennis star. The former World No. 1 had a massive fan following at the peak of her career. The 54-year-old’s love life was viewed keenly by fans. Graf had previously been married to former F1 driver Michael Bartels. However, the German tennis player moved on from Bartels and eventually tied the knot with Andre Agassi.
Michael Bartels is a former racing driver who went on to win the FIA GT1 world championship in 2010. The 55-year-old made four attempts to race in F1 with Lotus in 1991. Unfortunately, he failed to qualify for a single race. Bartels reportedly started dating Steffi Graf in 1992. The two were spotted together frequently. However, Graf put an end to their relationship in 1999.
Steffi Graf started seeing fellow tennis star Andre Agassi the same year. Eventually, the two decided to tie the knot and now have two kids. Graf’s new relationship sparked controversy as the German tennis star had just ended dating Michael Bartels. However, the 54-year-old had made it clear that she loved her time with Bartels. Although, things seemed to have not worked out between the two after seven years.
I was with Michael (Bartels) for seven years. It's a long time, which is why this breakup has been very tough on both of us. We had some intense times in that period, and I have to say he was always there for me. But it got to the point where it just wasn't working anymore.Steffi Graf told Sportstar
Michael Bartels was heartbroken after breakup with Steffi Graf
Bartels did not shy away from speaking publicly after his breakup with Steffi Graf. The former F1 driver was heartbroken as his seven-year-long relationship came to an end. The 55-year-old had mentioned that he was feeling disheartened by Graf’s decision as he claimed it was the tennis star who wanted to see other people.
I'd rather not say what I felt when I heard that she wanted to go down a new path after seven years with me. What I feel is very private..Michael Bartels said as reported by DailyRecord
Moreover, Michael Bartels claimed that he was totally unaware of Steffi Graf’s relations with Andre Agassi. The German driver claimed that he had barely seen Agassi around him and Graf. Although, the 55-year-old admitted that he had never suspected his partner and as such was clueless. Additionally, Bartels was convinced that Graf and Agassi had spent time with one another behind his back.
I had no idea Steffi and Andre were an item. I had never seen him around and didn't even know they were close friends. I suppose I would always have been the last to know, I really never suspected. It's left me stunned.
Certainly, Steffi Graf’s decision to break up was extremely hard for the former F1 driver. The 55-year-old had indirectly claimed that his partner cheated on him. Eventually, all parties moved on with Graf and Agassi living a happy married life. Presently there is little information available regarding Michael Bartels’ love life.
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Armaan Agarwal
(2435 Articles Published)