John McEnroe is one of those ex-athletes who, rather than heavily criticizing players, tries to understand their story. The veteran has always been supportive and has appreciated the efforts of players of this generation.

Having succeeded at the highest level, he understands how hard professional tennis players train and the physical and mental pressure they have to go through to succeed on the tour. Speaking of which, unlike many, McEnroe believes mental well-being is as important as technical skills.

John McEnroe about mental health

In an interview, when asked to share his thoughts on the changed perspective of today’s generation, McEnroe had a few things to say. The seven-time Grand Slam champion took his own example and explained why prioritizing mental health is a must. He said, “I had times where I was like if I ever win Wimbledon I will never go back. I can’t handle the pressure. It was overwhelming, and that was 40 years ago.”

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Thereafter, he added, “Maybe it’s more magnified because of social media. There’s more money, more expectations and when you are trying to be the best in any sport, it’s tough to get it right.”

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“You are putting so much time and effort mentally and physically into what you’re doing. You’re being hunted more for being the top guy.” However, McEnroe pulled himself from that state of mind successfully. As he claimed, three Wimbledon trophies with two coming in consecutive years.

Also, he was very close to a Calender Grand Slam in the year 1984 by winning Wimbledon, the US Open and reaching the final of the French Open for the first time.

McEnroe’s struggle outside the tennis court

McEnroe, apart from shouldering the pressure of being a top player, was burdened with more expectations when he married Tatum O’Neal. He and O’Neal tied the knot in the year 1986. Following that, things started to go south for the player.

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The former world no.1 himself admitted that his marriage with the actress increased media surveillance and affected his game. Which indeed is a fact, as their marriage ceremony itself was infested with paparazzi and helicopters. His mental health got affected to the extent that his career never saw a Grand Slam victory in singles after that.