Tennis is an intense sport that often brings out the raw emotions on the court, from both men and women athletes. None can attest to this more than John McEnroe, who has found himself on the wrong side of the officials on multiple occasions. Who could forget his infamous ‘You Cannot Be Serious!’ rant at Wimbledon? In the current generation, Nick Kyrgios is renowned for similar temper tantrums. However, it looks like another player is ready to take the mantle from the Aussie star. Recently, American tennis legend John McEnroe’s younger brother, Patrick McEnroe, issued a stern warning to the ATP rising star Holger Rune.
In a recent episode of the Holding Court podcast, Patrick voiced his opinions about the 19-year-old Dane’s controversial actions in a match. He warned the young player about developing a bad reputation on the tour. The incident that prompted Patrick to issue the warning occurred at the Madrid Open, where Rune was defeated by Alejandro Davidovich Fokina. During the match, the umpire had a few words for Rune after he was seen removing the mark on the court after a line call. The crowd booed Rune at every opportunity after that point. Patrick believes that Rune is “developing a reputation” and urges him to carefully consider his actions going forward.
McEnroe’s brother issues a stern warning to young ATP tennis star Holger Rune
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In the match between Rune and Fokina at the Madrid Open, the umpire Carlos Bernardes had a few words for Rune after he removed the mark following a line call. Rune had removed an important ball mark with his foot, and the crowd started booing him. Patrick McEnroe believes that it is hard for players to be a total ‘a**’ and be on the tour. He thinks that the ATP stars can do it, however, they end up leading a very lonely existence. Patrick believes that Rune is developing a reputation for his behavior on the court and urges him to carefully consider his actions going forward.
Patrick believes that Rune loves to engage the crowd. However, the young ace does it in a way that irritates his opponents at times. He further added that sometimes his actions irritate the crowd too.
In his podcast, Patrick shared, ” I’ve said this before, I’ll say it again. It’s hard to be a total a****** and be on the tennis tour, okay? It’s possible to do it, but you end up living a very lonely existence,..”
He also added,” I think Rune will come around. I do think he’s a threat to do some serious damage at the French [Open this year]. The guy is a tremendous talent, brings a ton of energy to the court.”
He further voiced, “I think he’s capable of winning majors. This year, probably not.”
Although Patrick believes that Rune has the potential to win major tournaments, he doesn’t expect him to win this year. Patrick still thinks that Rune’s performance is inconsistent during matches. However, he acknowledges that they have witnessed him play exceptionally well in important games.
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In the Madrid Open, Rune’s act of erasing the line call may have seemed harmless at the time, but it could have resulted in a penalty or disqualification.
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Rune has a reputation for having a fiery temper. The young star has been embroiled in contentious incidents with fans and players in the past. What are your thoughts on this? Share your opinions in the comments section below.
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