‘Never Paid Him Back’- After John Isner’s Nostalgic Admission, American Tennis Legend Pays Heart-Felt Ode to 6’10” ‘Giant’ over His Tearful US Open Retirement

Imagine being in the grand arena of the US Open, where matches turn exciting at the drop of a hat and players from veterans to underdogs shine. But sometimes, the high-octane buzz can also be tempered by sombreness and grace. Just recently, in this special place, a touching event unfolded – something that reaches beyond the game of tennis itself. Picture an impressive tall person crumbling to bits as tears fill their eyes, walking onto the court for their last match. That person is John Isner, bidding the court adieu after an impressive 17 years on the circuit.

As his final US Open run began, Isner’s friend and fellow tennis player, James Blake, presented a video tribute that celebrated their strong connection and shared memories over the years.

A heartfelt tribute by James Blake to John Isner

James Blake even led a video tribute at the US Open for his buddy. After the tribute, Isner was teary-eyed as he hugged his young son on the court. With Isner visibly moved by the memory, he said, “I’ve had a lot of amazing people to look up to. You included, James. I lived with James for like 3 months & ate all his food. I never paid him back & never paid him rent. He was really good to me.” This funny yet sincere memory showed the special bond between the two tennis greats.

[The Tennis Letter] John Isner used to live at James Blake’s house: “I’ve had a lot of amazing people to look up to. You included James. I lived with James for like 3 months & ate all his food. I never paid him back & never paid him rent. 😂 He was really good to me.” Priceless. 🥹
by u/Kimber80 in tennis

After Isner crashed out in the second round of the US open, James Blake took to Twitter to share his love and best wishes for his friend. In his tweet, he emotionally stated, “The tour will miss you @JohnIsner You were a pillar and a figurative and literal giant. Congratulations on 17 successful years and good luck for the rest of the years with your family.”

For a professional athlete towering at an incredible stature of 6’10”, one can only imagine the demands of a young Isner’s lifestyle, and the sacrifices that his friend made for him. The nostalgic memory of the incident revealed the emotional foundation of the friendship between James Blake and John Isner.

An emotional but graceful Isner says farewell

Although Isner’s final appearance at the US Open didn’t result in a fairytale ending, his legacy remains strong. Isner’s home Slam run has been nothing short of a rollercoaster of emotions. Thus, after his Round Two match, Isner took a moment to thank the crowd for showing up for him through the years.

An overwhelmed Isner expressed his appreciation, saying, “You know this is why I’ve worked as hard as I have my whole life to play in atmospheres like this.” Isner also shared a lighthearted moment, joking, “Of course I can’t win them all, (laughs) as we know, just like today, but to play in this crowd, to have the support I had, so thank you.”

ALSO READ: Emotions Run High for American Tennis Legend John Isner as He Breaks Down in Tears after Overwhelming Love from Fans in Heart-Breaking US Open Defeat

John Isner’s farewell from professional tennis was marked by touching moments shared with friend James Blake. These moments, both on and off the court, showed the lasting bond between athletes.

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