Southern California native Marcos Giron has always had a special connection with Tennis Paradise. Born in nearby Thousand Oaks, he has incredible memories of coming to the Indian Wells Tennis Garden to watch the likes of Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal and Stan Wawrinka. Giron had his breakout moment at this tournament as well, reaching the third round in 2019 while ranked outside the Top 200.

There’s another connection that Giron now enjoys. The 32-year-old World No. 69 has developed a strong relationship with American icon Andre Agassi, and the American had the eight-time major champion in his box during his first-round win over Mariano Navone on Stadium 4 on Wednesday.

Agassi’s daughter Jaz, who helps train Giron along with legend Gil Reyes, was also in attendance.

Until Wednesday, Agassi had only ever sat in Giron’s box one other time — back in 2024, when Giron won his first ATP title in Newport. A good omen if there ever was one.

“He happened to be in Newport, Rhode Island when I won the tournament,” Giron remembers. “He was there for one of the matches and it kind of worked out, my only title. When I found out he was going to be able to come and support, I didn't necessarily expect it, but it was special to be there with him, truly.”

The productive mentorship started in 2020. Giron first met Agassi when he was asked to attend a training session, along with Sebastian Korda, in Las Vegas.

“I went out there to Vegas, I got asked to come out and practice. And so from there I have the relationship, and he's given some thought to my game,” he told reporters after his 4-6, 7-5, 6-3 win.

To say that he was stoked to have the legend in attendance would be an understatement.

“I think when you talk about Andre, No. 1 in the world for I don't know how many weeks and eight Slams, 60 titles, all of that,” he said. “He sees the game on a different level. And so I am fortunate to have a very good relationship with him, and he's been so kind with sharing his opinion. It's been really good.”

How has Agassi helped him evolve as a player?

“A lot of ways," he said. "Getting me to be more aggressive, to see more opportunity on the court, from all over the court. I think he's really, he's had a huge impact on my career.”

Working with Agassi’s daughter, who lists herself as a fitness trainer on her Instagram page, has also been a treat.

“She works with Gil Reyes at the gym, and so I do a lot of training there (in Las Vegas). Her and Gil are training me, and so I see them all the time. It’s cool to have the family support.”

Giron, who will face No. 12 seed Jakub Mensik in the second round, hopes to continue applying the lessons he’s learned from one of the greatest American tennis players of all time.

“One thing is hearing it, but another is learning to apply it,” he says of Agassi’s words of wisdom. “He's special. He's got a special mind.”