‘Sort of a Damn Shame’ – John McEnroe Gets Real About Pickleball’s Alarming Popularity as His Academy Falls Prey to Tennis’ Rival Sport

John McEnroe knows how to turn the tables between pickleball and tennis. While the war between both sports is still going on, the 64-year-old American tennis legend, after having a successful tennis career, has now stepped into the world of pickleball. But even after entering pickleball, he has made his opinion regarding his position in the war of sports by making a clear pick.

The former world number one tennis player recently discussed the changes that are taking place on tennis courts. He not only outlined the rationale for the switch to pickleball courts, but he also discussed the significant distinctions between the two sports.

John McEnroe talks about tennis courts transforming into pickleball arena

The seven-time Grand Slam champion was a part of the first pickleball slam, and in less than two months, he will be seen playing in the second season of the event. Even though he has shown interest in pickleball, that doesn’t mean he has left tennis behind. Recently, in an interview with CNBC television, McEnroe talked about witnessing the huge transformation of the tennis arena for pickleball.

He said, “I don’t feel that good about it um because uh I’m seeing that myself and even some at my own tennis Academy there was a I’m like what… you cannot, I don’t even want to finish that phrase, it’s too obvious.” Not only that, but he also addressed how the transformation is also bringing some extra box to the public court owners because of which for them it’s worth investing in change.

Along with that, he highlighted how the fast-growing racquetball sport is quite easy to pick and anyone can play it. On the other hand, tennis is a process that needs to be learned before getting on the court. McEnroe addressed, “If you want to be a pro is a lot harder so that’s why I think you’re seeing these courts change the pickleball courts it’s sort of a damn shame that we can’t have both be win-win. In my mind, I think ultimately that’s the solution you know to me.”

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Not only that, while he does not oppose pickleball, she believes that the perfect solution to having both sports is to exist in peace. But at the same time, he also contradicted his own statement and talked about how nothing can beat tennis for him. However, earlier this year, before stepping into the universe of pickleball, he also made a sarcastic rant against the sport.

When McEnroe chose tennis over pickleball

The seven-time Grand Slam champion was asked in a virtual interview with Jason Nathanson about whether he was convinced by pickleball. To which he gave a very sarcastic answer and said, “You know, I’m not a convert to pickleball; I think it s*cks.”

In addition, he said, “Be careful because you’re way more susceptible to injury in that cr*ppy pickleball game than you are in tennis. So stick to tennis.” After that, he also drew a distinction between both racquetball sports and urged people to go for tennis as it is safer than pickleball.

However, what are your thoughts on McEnroe’s take on pickleball vs. tennis? Share your thoughts in the comment section below.

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