McEnroe Turns 50, Nearly Beats Sampras

Darren Aronofsky’s new movie, The Wrestler, is winning rave reviews for its tale about a broken down ex-wrestling star who yearns for one more shot at glory. They could easily make such a movie about an old tennis pro who wants to walk on the Wimbledon grass one more time. Better yet, they could chronicle the long, strange trip of John McEnroe, who still fights all the old demons that plagued him in his prime.

A few years ago I chronicled an epic Mac Meltdown that happened at a seniors tournament in Naples.  That essay has been added as a separate page to this website. It was an embarrassing  display, featuring temper tantrums, f-bombs, and personal attacks on his opponent (Jimmy Arias, who was intimidated enough to completely surrender). Mac was full of uncontrollable rage. He turned a rabidly pro-McEnroe crowd completely against him.The fans left angry and confused.

It wasn’t an act. He later threatened to quit playing altogether. McEnroe just wants to be loved, but he can’t get out of  his own way.

McEnroe can’t quit. And he can still play. He was in action over the weekend, nearly beating 37 year old Pete Sampras in the finals of the Boston Champions Cup. Sampras was in awe of Mac’s ability.

“John McEnroe turns 50 tomorrow – it’s incredible how well this guy still plays. I’m in awe of it actually,” said Sampras following Sunday’s final. “At 50, it’s amazing to move that well. It’s pretty incredible. He’s been consistently playing since he retired. He’s still in great shape, his hands, his experience. He knows where to go on the court. He doesn’t move quite as well, but it’s pretty remarkable at 50 he plays this well.”

Pete picked up on something that I noticed as well – Mac always seems to be in the right place, he knows where the ball is going. His anticipaton out there is a sight to see. It is incredible that McEnroe can compete with guys two generations removed from his own. And this is a competitive tour, the players take it seriously. My guess is that Mac still believes he should have won more, could havd done more, and until he shuts the door on those feelings he will never be at peace.

Happy birthday Johnny Mac.

Posted in: mcenroe, Sampras