BEIJING, Nov. 26 (Xinhuanet) -- Retired Grand Slam record holder Pete Sampras showed he's still got some quality tennis left in his 36-year-old body Saturday in Macao, knocking of world No. 1 Roger Federer 7-6 (8), 6-4 to win the third of three exhibition matches played this past week in Asia.

The two players have won a combined 26 Grand Slam titles, but Sampras retired five years ago after winning the U.S. Open in 2002. Federer, 26, won three Grand Slams this year and the Masters Cup last week en route to a 68-9 record.

"I'm sort of surprised. This guy can play tennis, you know," Federer said after his loss. "It's been tough beating my idol the last two times. I'm happy that he got me at least once."

Sampras, who never faced a break point, downplayed his victory, noting Federer was coming off a long season and he was helped by his big serve and the fast indoor carpet surface. His goal was to win one set during the three-match series.

"Let's not get carried away, he said at post-match news conference, denying a comeback bid. "I had my time in the 90s.

Federer beat Sampras 6-4, 6-3 in Seoul on Tuesday and edged the American 7-6 (6), 7-6 (5) in Kuala Lumpur on Thursday.

"I hope we can do it again in the future," Federer said. "I'd like to get him back."

Federer said he thought Sampras could beat the top five players on a fast surface. Sampras predicted Federer could beat his record of most Grand Slam wins "if not next year, pretty soon."

(Agencies)