Pete Sampras' former coach has all-but ruled out the possibility of the seven-times Wimbledon champion returning to mainstream tennis.

However, Paul Annacone, now the head of men's coaching at the Lawn Tennis Association, said he had discussed the matter with the 35-year-old.

Annacone told Radio Five Live's Sportsweek programme: "It is romantically interesting for all of us and I would love to see it."

"We have talked about it a number of times but I do not see it happening any time soon."

"I would never say never but it would shock me if it did happen. Pete does not seem too interested. There is a lot involved in doing that and he is doing just fine just now."

Annacone added: "I speak to him periodically and he is very happy with his life. He is playing a couple of senior events and has a couple of exhibitions with Roger (Federer) lined up."