Jimmy Connors, or James Scott Connors, gives all the credit to this one person for training him and raising him to be a tennis GOAT. Connors dominated the court during the ’70s and ’80s; known for his aggressive play, the former World No.1 picked up the tennis racket during his childhood, under the aegis of the same person. His mother, Gloria Connors.
And recently, on his mother’s birthday, tennis fans took to Twitter, to wish and remember Gloria’s contribution and glorious life.

Gloria Connors was her son’s first coach, with the sole aim of raising a strong, aggressive, and competitive player. And she certainly saw the rise of her son to the zenith. And Jimbo couldn’t be more grateful for these wishes.

Jimmy Connors is grateful to tennis fans, as they remember his mother

It was the competitive spirit that Gloria wanted her son to learn and she took it upon herself to teach her son. In their backyard, Gloria taught the young Jimbo to play tennis, and she wasn’t a soft player. When Gloria taught her son, she let go of the mom’s role and hit strong shots, overpowering him again and again; encouraging him to develop an aggressive approach.

Gloria herself was a renowned tennis player, winning the United States National Championships in 1942 and ’43. As the New York Times once quoted Gloria’s words, “See, Jimmy, even your own mother will do that to you,” as she slammed shots past him.

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Gloria passed away more than a decade ago in 2007, at the age of 82. And Jimmy credited his mom for her teachings and support. “All my life she taught me — made me a world champion,” the former world no.1 said after his mother’s demise.

Read More: ‘F**K the Duke!’ – Jimmy Connors Once Narrated Dramatic Wimbledon Incident to Prove Why People Love His Brash Attitude

And recently, a fan Tweeted his wish for Gloria, as he said, “Happy Heavenly Birthday to your amazing Mom Gloria @JimmyConnors!!” In response to this heartwarming wish, he replied, “Thanks for remembering — the years have passed so fast — I miss her every day!!”

The left-handed, former World No.1 and the Hall of Famer went on to claim 8 Grand slams throughout his career on the ATP Tour. Along with his titles, he also had a legendary rivalry with another American legend, John McEnroe.

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