John McEnroe— how he plays!

John McEnroe won 155 career ATP titles including 7 major singles! I saw him play Davis Cup at Newport on grass. John could take the net like no one I’ve ever seen. His simple swing take backs, counter punch attack style is amazing. As a lefty he stands about 8 feet to the right of center when serving to the deuce box in singles. He lines his serve up sideways, back to the fence, then hits out wide or down the T and then rushes in to hit an approach volley, if his serve is returned! His forehand volley he could take early in the air behind the receiver or volley cross court. If a rally ensues, he finishes with a drop volley, power volley, or overhead. He protected the net in singles like a hockey goalie. On his return of serve, he takes the ball early off the hop, similar to the saber of Federer. Then he’s at the net!
His return placements were low and away from opponents making passing shots challenging. He and his doubles partner, Peter Fleming are one of the greatest doubles teams of all time.

Check out this collaborative tennis video from two of the best online tennis coaches—Ian and Jeff. youtu.be/jVkMyQWBh9Y?si=TUKmlK_BcqnmOTE1

We will be using these warm-up and training styles over the next few weeks to add foot speed and quickness to your game!

​

This is a classic U.S. Open match between John McEnroe and Bjorn Borg. John, a NYC native, defeated Borg and Borg retired after that match. Borg, himself a five time Wimbledon champion was known for using topspin and he covered the court like a blanket. When asked, how did do plan your strategy? He said, “I hit the ball cross court, and sometimes I go down the line.” That speaks so well and is easily understood. Like any great player, the answers are basic. The execution is flawless! This was quite a match. Note the wood racquets!!! Soon graphite racquets would change the game of tennis and evolve to power and spin beyond comprehension for this time. youtu.be/aR50sEZELVs?si=MW1ffOpm0ny_gj6g

This is the 1984 U.S. Open won by John McEnroe. Between 1981-1984. In those years, John was unstoppable! This is a semi-final match against Jimmy Connor’s, another great tennis legend. Jimmy plays left handed, with a two handed backhand weapon. He is one of the most competitive tennis players I’ve ever seen. I remember teaching a Prince Day Promotional Clinic at Willowbend with Jimmy on the court. My two boys, Scott and Eric who were young, rallied with Jimmy in the Stadium court. I’ll never forget that day. Neither will they. Jimmy owns the record for 109 ATP singles titles, the most ever! Check out this match. youtu.be/wIY4OM4-ZmU?si=l8Elc46ConDOl68a