The 8 Grand Slam champion, Jimmy Connors, has been honored on various occasions because of his brilliant performances on the tennis court. However, the former American tennis player once missed out on a crucial event where he was to be honored by the Duke of Kent.

Connors later made a revelation about this surprising incident in the book, “The Outsider: My Autobiography”. The American tennis star further stated that he faced major backlashes for missing out on the event in 1977.

Jimmy Connors once talked about his absence from the Parade of champions

The 8 Grand Slam title winner once missed the Parade of Champions, where he was to be honored with a medal from the Duke of Kent. However, Jimmy Connors missed the important event because of his thumb injury and he was also trying out a new splint. The incident happened during the Grand Slam tournament, Wimbledon 1977.

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The former American tennis player also faced major criticism for missing the parade. The media also condemned Connors for his attitude towards the Duke of Kent. Connors revealed, “The bad news was that the press went into a full tabloid frenzy when I didn’t make the parade.”

He further revealed that the Wimbledon authorities called him into the principal’s office as they were furious with him. Connors added the authorities didn’t appreciate his “bad manners” for missing the parade. The American tennis star went on to say, “Come on, guys, it’s not like I looked up the Queen’s skirt. I was just doing everything I could to fulfill my obligation to you people as a professional tennis player. So back off! “

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Connors also revealed that he was involved in verbal sparring with a person who frustrated him while he was on his way back to his hotel. He stated, “I roll down the window, ready to launch a few verbal missiles. And he says in his Cockney accent, ‘Nice one, Connors. F**k the Duke!’ and sticks out his middle finger.”

Connors defeated Richard Lewis despite facing criticism

Despite facing major backlashes from the media, Connors defeated the former British tennis player, Richard Lewis. Connors was booed by fans when he entered the Centre Court as he missed the Parade of champions.

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However, the former American tennis player beat Lewis, 6-3, 6-2, 6-4, in the first round of the Wimbledon. Connors further stated that he was unbothered “being the villain” for the media and fans for his attitude towards the parade and the Duke of Kent. He just went on to play the match against Lewis and he answered his critics with his brilliant performance on the tennis court.