Elton John had his work cut out when he gave a live performance in California on Wednesday. Because instead of staging one of his legendary concerts, the 57-year-old took on Andre Agassi and Anna Kournikova in an all-star tennis match.
The Rocket Man had some capable assistance, in the shape of world number two Andy Roddick, for the doubles clash. But in the end it wasn't enough to stop his opponents from storming to victory. Not even some tactical tips from Wimbledon legend Billy Jean King could help the musician get back in the game.
His defeat may have taken Sir Elton by surprise, because he had been confident of glory before the game began. "Well it's obvious we're going to win tonight," he said. "I lost the last two years, so I've got to put that right."
Some 5,000 fans went along to the University of California campus to see Elton and his friends slug it out. The Smash Hits tennis competition was part of a two-day event staged to raise money for Aids charities. The fundraiser, which also included a concert and an auction, pulled in £800,000 altogether. Three fans paid £55,000 each to have dinner with the singer, while a private lunch with Anna went for £10,000. |
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