Andre Agassi once remarked, “The competitive level of Laver Cup is off the charts and it’s easy to see why.” The tournament electrifies tennis by transforming a traditionally individual sport into a gripping team battle. Rivals like Federer and Nadal join forces under legendary coaches. Camaraderie, unpredictable partnerships, and high-stakes drama unfold with every point. Now, as the era of Captains John McEnroe and Bjorn Borg ends, Agassi and Yannick Noah step up to lead. The big question: what does the new Team World captain say about accepting this iconic role?

Agassi is a tennis legend, plain and simple. He boasts 60 singles titles, eight majors, and a former World No. 1 ranking, according to Infosys ATP Stats. He also clinched three Davis Cup wins for the U.S. and Olympic gold in 1996. Taking on the Laver Cup captaincy is just another feather in his cap. But when first offered the role, he hesitated!

Speaking to the Tennis Channel, Agassi revealed, “Honestly, when they proposed it to me, the first thing I thought was: ‘NO.’ Then they told me it wouldn’t have to be immediate, that it would be for next season, but I wasn’t sure it was the right fit for me. That’s when I started listening to the words John (McEnroe) and Björn (Borg) had dedicated to each other after several years in the role. I also read a lot of feedback from the public who had come to see the event in person, the players’ opinions on the format and their experience, and little by little I began to see myself in the role.” It only makes sense, right?

For seven captivating years, the Laver Cup thrived under its inaugural captains: Bjorn Borg for Team Europe and John McEnroe for Team World. Both started in 2017. Their contrasting genius brought strategy, passion, and personality to the sidelines.

Borg, the “Ice Man,” cool and collected, masterminded Team Europe to five dominant victories. His tactical acumen and ability to unite stars made him a standout. Conversely, the fiery “Superbrat,” John McEnroe, infused Team World with his fierce competitive spirit. He led them to two memorable triumphs, especially the breakthrough win in 2022. Their distinct styles mirrored their legendary playing days. Borg’s calm resolve balanced McEnroe’s animated encouragement. Every captain’s challenge and on-court coaching moment became a mini-drama.

What truly elevated their captaincy was the irony of their past. Borg and McEnroe were once tennis’s most compelling rivalry—a classic “Fire and Ice” clash. They produced iconic matches, like the unforgettable 1980 Wimbledon final. As Agassi pointed out, “Seeing that camaraderie among so many people finally convinced me; I was completely captivated by that level of intensity.” Their departure in 2024 marked the end of an era. They left an indelible mark on the tournament’s legacy. Now, former pros will take the torch.

Agassi never played the Laver Cup—he retired in 2006. You can forgive his skepticism over taking the reins. But what does McEnroe have to say about Agassi taking over?

John McEnroe shares bold prediction for Andre’s captaincy at Laver Cup

Last September marked McEnroe’s final stand as Team World captain—an emotional moment for a legend who led his side to two wins since the Laver Cup began in 2017. “It would be great to go out on a high,” said the left-hander, eager to rally his troops one last time. Though Team Europe snatched victory in 2024 (13-11), McEnroe’s legacy shines with back-to-back wins in 2022 and 2023. With his time at the helm ending, he passed the baton with confidence: “Andre is going to do a great job,” praising Agassi as smart, charismatic, and a true legend.

McEnroe’s admiration for Andre Agassi runs deep. “I played him when he was 16 or 17; he had that personality, and you just knew something big was going to happen,” he recalled. “He has that special quality that people love.” 

Agassi does hold a slight edge on paper: he notched a Career Grand Slam with eight major singles titles, including wins at Wimbledon (1992), the US Open (1994, 1999), the Australian Open (1995, 2000, 2001, 2003), and the French Open (1999). McEnroe, while dominant in his era—especially on fast courts—claimed seven Grand Slam singles titles (four US Opens, three Wimbledons).

In the end, McEnroe predicts Agassi will bring his own flair to the captaincy, adding, “He’s probably more analytic-driven than I am… Players are going to love him as well. It’s going to be fun to watch from more of a distance the next couple of years.”

Now, Andre Agassi is ready to lead Team World at the 2025 Laver Cup, set for September 19-21 in San Francisco. Will he live up to McEnroe’s bold prediction and steer his team to victory? The stage is set for a new chapter in Laver Cup history—share your thoughts in the comments below!