Bluntly Refusing to Apologize, John McEnroe Fueled Further Controversy With a Bizarre Solution to Endless Serena Williams Debate in 2017

In 2017, the American former tennis champion turned commentator, John McEnroe, reignited the age-old debate of men versus women in tennis. His comments in an NPR interview about Serena Williams sparked a huge controversy. His comments about the American GOAT had drawn criticism from many fans and athletes.

The ‘SuperBrat’ had refused to apologize and offered a bizarre solution to end the debate once and for all. His comments sparked a heated discussion about gender equality in tennis. Many fans questioned his stance and the validity of his suggestion.

McEnroe once sparked a huge fire with his words on Serena Williams

In the interview, he once shared, “I respect Serena (Williams) and very much so okay. You’re gonna get honest feedback, she’s the greatest female player that ever lived”

McEnroe was asked about his opinion on Williams’ place in tennis history. He responded by saying, “If she played the men’s circuit she’d be like 700 in the world.”

These words caused an immediate uproar, many fans accused McEnroe of belittling Williams’ accomplishments.

He further added, ” why don’t you combine and just solve the problem? I’m sure the men would be all for this. Let the men and women play together and then we don’t have to guess”

Despite the backlash, McEnroe remained steadfast in his position. He argued that the best way to settle the debate once and for all would be to have men and women play together in a single tournament. In his view, this would put an end to the endless comparisons between male and female athletes.

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Some tennis fans argue that men and women should compete together in sports, but some think it is a bad idea citing men’s physical strength and endurance to be much superior to that of women.

McEnroe once shared his meeting with the Williams sisters

McEnroe once shared his recollection of his first encounter with the Williams sisters. The American had expressed that the movie ‘King Richard’ did not portray the scene accurately. He clarified that he did not leave in disgust or refuse to see Williams. The American added that he was excited to see the two young kids, who he was told would be future number ones.

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McEnroe emphasized that he did not have any reason to refuse to see the kids just because he is a hothead. McEnroe also shared his interaction with Richard Williams on the same day. He also recalled that Richard mentioned how Venus and Serena would be the two best players in the world. He stated that he had his doubts and told them to call him in ten years to see what happens.

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