John McEnroe is one of the most recognisable voices in tennis and he is back commentating at Wimbledon this year.
The American, who had a stellar playing career and was the fierce rival of Swedish legend Bjorn Borg, was co-commentating for the BBC for their Monday night Wimbledon coverage.
His outspoken, rambunctious personality is an undeniable draw for tennis fans across the world, following on from his often high-profile playing career.
The seven-time Grand Slam champion, who is an icon in large part due to his ‘you cannot be serious’ mantra, weighed in on a discussion that has become commonplace in tennis discourse.
John McEnroe names Alexander Zverev as the best ATP player yet to win a Grand Slam
Speaking on Monday evening while co-commentating for the BBC, Nick Mullins asked McEnroe if Alexander Zverev is now the best ATP player around yet to win a Grand Slam.
McEnroe: “I would say yes. You can make an argument that perhaps a Holger Rune you know some of the young bucks, could be, you know.”
Mullins interjected, putting forward Greek player Stefanos Tsitsipas as a possible candidate for the best ATP player yet to win a slam.
Mullins said: “Tsitsipas in his prime. He’s not in his prime anymore but maybe Tsitsipas in his prime.”
However, McEnroe replied: “I think Zverev’s a little better so I think it’s accurate. You know, I’m trying to think over the years who are the best guys not to win it and certainly to me he’s right up there at the top of the list.”
McEnroe provided evidence-based analysis for his conclusion, pointing out Zverev’s near miss at the 2020 US Open against Dominic Thiem.
McEnroe said: “He served for the match against Dominic Thiem at the (US) Open.”
Thiem beat Zverev in an all-time classic, triumphing 2-6 4-6 6-4 6-3 7-6.
Alexander Zverev saves four set points to level against Arthur Rinderknech in the Wimbledon first round
It is no secret that Alexander Zverev has struggled to make an impact at Wimbledon throughout his playing career, having never made it past the fourth round.
The German, who is seeking an elusive Grand Slam crown, faced off against France’s Arthur Rinderknech on Monday night.
The Frenchman proved a tough test for Zverev, snatching the opening set 7-6. However, the German showed his grit and desire, saving four set points to win the second set tiebreak.
Zverev, who recently conveyed his hope for Wimbledon, will continue his opening-round match against Rinderknech on Tuesday morning.
