Former American tennis star John McEnroe is among the fiercest tennis players of all time. Even after his retirement, the 63-year-old has not lost his defining touch. The American is still very bold and unapologetic. Apart from working as a tennis analyst and commentator, he also runs a tennis academy.

Just like in his playing days, the American has strong words for his competitors. Speaking of the way he is trying to shape the players at his academy, McEnroe slammed the techniques used by Nick Bollettieri.

John McEnroe is not happy with Nick Bollettieri’s training methods

McEnroe appeared for an interview two months ago. The tennis legend spoke about his upcoming Netflix documentary. However, the discussion also involved talks about McEnroe’s academy. Speaking of which, McEnroe compared it to Bollettieri’s academy.

Criticizing Bollettieri, McEnroe said, “Well, this is a problem in all sports. People think you’ve gotta decide at 10 and then go all in. Nick Bollettieri, I always thought he was full of himself, but look at Agassi. And then if you read Agassi’s book, it sounded like tennis’ version of Lord of the Flies. I’m not sure that’s good for kids.”

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He further added, “IMG bought Bollettieri, so now it’s a hornet’s nest down there of agents trying to sign the next 12-year-old. I mean, it’s sad in a way.”

McEnroe also explained the reason other academies are badmouthing his approach to tennis coaching. “My academy is trying to be different, and that’s why they pooh-pooh it. Oh, McEnroe doesn’t know anything! You’ve got to go all in when you’re 10 or 12, and God forbid you go to college or play other sports! It’s a total joke to me,” McEnroe concluded.

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Bollettieri gave a few of the greatest tennis players of all time. It will be interesting to see what McEnroe can bring in with his alternative approach.

Roger Federer visits McEnroe’s academy

Swiss tennis maestro Roger Federer has a special liking for the US. The 41-year-old claimed five consecutive US Open titles from 2004 to 2008. After playing his last match in the Laver Cup, Federer returned for a tour to New York.

Here, the Swiss legend also visited John McEnroe’s academy. The 20-time Grand Slam champion met McEnroe and also hit the indoor tennis court at the academy for some action.

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Federer was out of action for a long time after multiple knee surgery. He returned to court only to say his final goodbye at the Laver Cup. In his last professional match, Federer played doubles alongside Rafael Nadal.