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Major Upside of Pickleball Explained by John McEnroe as He Lays Bare a Shocking ‘Second Favorite’ Verdict

Published 11/22/2023, 9:14 AM EST

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The popularity of pickleball is growing stronger with every passing day. In a recent episode of the talk show segment by TODAY, tennis legend John McEnroe described his take on the sport. While chatting with the show’s hosts Hoda and Jenna about pickleball, he put on his humorous side. McEnroe is known for his involvement in the up-and-coming Pickleball events. 

The tennis royalty even participated in the Pickleball Slam. This event garnered a lot of attention from hardcore tennis enthusiasts. However, what factors put the sport on the 2nd number in John McEnroe’s list of favorites is quite interesting.

John McEnroe is in his pickleball era

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In the lively banter on TODAY’s talk show, Jenna broaches the surprising topic of McEnroe’s shift toward pickleball. She asked the legend about what she heard him say about the sport. As per her, John McEnroe has said many times that pickleball is not his game, but it’s becoming his game. She also asked about how pickleball was his “second favorite.”

via Imago

John McEnroe, without any hesitation, was already equipped with an answer. He stated: “Well, it’s becoming more my game. There are a couple of reasons. One is that the court is a lot smaller, and I’m not getting any younger. And two, now all of a sudden, you know, I love when things are quieter and stuff. It also supposedly has power.” This seemingly off-the-cuff remark reveals layers of insight into McEnroe’s evolving relationship with the sport.

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The mention of a smaller court hints at a practical consideration. It perhaps is even a  concession to the realities of aging. Yet, it’s the unexpected desire for peace that is quite intriguing. In McEnroe’s tennis career, noise and fervor were constants. Now, there’s an emerging allure in the softer acoustics of pickleball.

READ MORE: Sitting Beside Wife Steffi Graf, Andre Agassi Ridicules Rival John McEnroe With a Serious Dig – ‘Don’t Like to Set the Bar..’

As McEnroe muses about enjoying the “quieter” side, it becomes apparent that his interest in pickleball extends beyond the physical dimensions of the court. It’s a subtle embrace of a different pace. This revelation added a very humorous twist to the conversation. However, it also offers a glimpse into the nuanced reasons behind John McEnroe’s sporting evolution.

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John McEnroe’s pickleball comeback

In the aftermath of an entertaining first installment of the Pickleball Slam, McEnroe faced off against tennis titans Andre Agassi and Andy Roddick. Despite tasting defeat, McEnroe remains undeterred and is eagerly anticipating the upcoming second installment. The buzz around this event intensifies as two new luminaries join in. 

Maria Sharapova and Steffi Graf have entered the pickleball arena alongside the seasoned McEnroe and Agassi. The prospect of fresh faces adds an intriguing dynamic to the competition and also hints at a blend of rivalry and camaraderie. 

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McEnroe’s enthusiasm for this rematch not only puts light on his passion for pickleball but also positions him as a spirited contender. It seems like he is all ready to embrace the unpredictable thrill of the court once again. What are your thoughts on this? Let us know in the comments.

WATCH THIS STORY: Distressing Serena Williams Reality Leaves Gaping Void That’s Nearly Impossible to Fill for Coco Gauff and Iga Swiatek

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Written by:

Charrvi Singh

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“…to those who thought you were putting water on my fire, you were really adding gas to it and now I’m burning so bright right now” – Coco Gauff, 2023 US Open. Ever since Naomi Osaka’s infamous withdrawal from the tennis circuit due to her deteriorating mental health in the 2021 French Open, I have been enamored by tennis stars and their psyche. With a background in psychology, I am interested in delving into the minds of the sport's biggest stars while keeping my readers informed about the latest in the tennis world, from on-court action to personal stories.
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Edited by:

Shudh.mukherjee