Began playing tennis at age two, but not seriously until 14 and did not play juniors...Nickname is "Al"...Father, Andreas is a banker and played high level German club tennis; mother, Gudrun, is a kindergarten teacher and competed in track and field...Grandfather was German champion in figure skating...Considers his younger brother, Sebastian, his most dedicated motivator and best friend...Speaks German, English and French...Played at San Diego State University from 1997-2000...Credits college coaches John Nelson and Larry Willens who believed he could become a Top 100 pro...Enjoys playing soccer, computer games and go-cart racing... Considers his serve best shot and likes fast surfaces (indoor hard or carpet and grass)...Represented Germany in Davis Cup.