The unseeded American, who is deeply religious but does not usually discuss his faith, yesterday recounted his helicopter trip on Sunday to see the ancient religious relic, which Catholics believe was used to wrap Christ's body two millenniums ago after his crucification.

Agassi, practicing for his 1998 clay court debut at the Monte Carlo Country Club at the Mercedes Super 9 event, said that his desire to see the shroud, on limited display at the Cathedral in the northern Italian city, was overwhelming.

``I knew what to expect,'' said the American. ``But I cannot actually describe being there. It was beautiful.'' Agassi was flown by helicopter from the tournament to Turin, around 220 km from the principality, and was then driven by a Rolls-Royce.