Hey Tennis Friends!
Here’s today’s video clip:
One of the cool things about this year’s event is that the Tennis Legends Tour is being played here simultaneously. It’s a great chance to see the former pros compete, and many still at a high level. Yesterday evening there was an autograph signing for this guy:
Yep, that’s John McEnroe doing his best to be friendly! Last night, he took to the court against Mikael Pernfors of Sweden. For fans like me, who have discovered tennis after McEnroe’s era, it’s a real treat to get to see him play again.
Here’s a shot of his lefty serve. It looks quite different from the arching back severs that I have pointed out on other posts on this site. He played well, and there were a couple of outbursts that almost made it seem like professional wrestling. McEnroe beat Pernfors 6-3, 7-6.
Today I had an insightful conversation with one of the recognizable (from TV) linesmen. Unfortunately, they aren’t allowed to do “official” interviews, so I wasn’t able to get any of the comments on camera. Suffice to say, it seems like a pretty enjoyable job, and it involves world travel. The linespeople are independent contractors, and can choose to work with either the ATP or the WTA, or both.
I’ll see you next time, with more tennis, . . . outside the lines!
– Marcus Tennis
