Andre Agassi has reflected on what made John McEnroe’s tennis remarkable, highlighting key skills that set him apart during their careers. Meanwhile, McEnroe remains active in the tennis world, focusing on current events such as the French Open, where concerns about player readiness are rising.

John McEnroe, a tennis legend like Agassi, has been deeply involved in media and commentary roles since retiring, paying close attention to the ongoing tournament at Roland Garros. His recent worries center on Jannik Sinner, the ATP number one, who is preparing for a semi-final match against Novak Djokovic despite having very few matches under his belt after a three-month suspension. Sinner has made a strong return, reaching the Italian Open final and advancing to the last four in Paris in only his second event back.

Andre Agassi’s Insight on John McEnroe’s Unique Tennis Abilities

Andre Agassi, known for his own extraordinary tennis career, discussed McEnroe’s distinctive style during an episode of the Served podcast with Andy Roddick. The two players, although from different eras, have often been compared for their impact and rivalry on the court.

Agassi praised McEnroe’s exceptional ability to counteract power. Rather than relying on speed or strength, McEnroe maintained control by keeping the ball low and with less pace. This approach disrupted Agassi’s usual aggressive playing style, forcing him to adjust his game when facing McEnroe.

“You know, Mac had an incredible ability to offset power, right, to neutralise power,”

Agassi said.

“So he could keep the ball down with no pace, which kind of affected the way I came into the game. Because I came into the game kind of going through guys, and Mac was that generation where I felt like maybe I can go through this guy, but I couldn’t quite go through him, because the balls he would hit were not only not much pace to it, but they were always low.”

—Andre Agassi, Tennis Legend

Agassi noted how this forced opponents into a defensive position,

“You felt like you were lifting on every ball that you hit against the guy.”

He added that McEnroe’s ability to move and take sharp angles on the court was often underestimated. His footwork and speed allowed him to cover the court exceptionally well, turning defense into offense with ease.

He explained,

“His speed was way underrated, too. I mean, he was quick. The guy had unbelievable footwork, and he took unbelievable angles to the ball. Especially in the forecourt, but even in the backcourt.”

Agassi described how McEnroe’s anticipation and positioning gave him an advantage, making opponents feel behind in rallies.

Another highlight was McEnroe’s skill at volleying and controlling the forecourt. Agassi detailed,

“If he shoveled a forehand from the lefty side right, he shovels a forehand towards down the line and gets bad direction, and you crank it cross, he’s already committed to an angle at that ball, and he’s buttoned that thing down and coming in.”

Agassi summarized this tactical mastery:

“So now you’re actually behind. You’re having to lift it and having to generate, and he’s on top of the net. You always feel like you were lifting the ball against him.”

—Andre Agassi, Tennis Legend

Comparing Their Rivalry and Head-to-Head Record

Andre Agassi and John McEnroe share a connection beyond their on-court battles, now linked as prominent figures in developing tennis talent and events. Agassi currently serves as Team World captain at the Laver Cup, a role formerly held by McEnroe, who has supported Agassi’s leadership for the upcoming event in San Francisco.

McEnroe’s tenure as Team World captain was marked by challenges, winning only two of seven editions. His main rival during those events was Bjorn Borg, captain of Team Europe, who is now passing the torch to Yannick Noah.

During their playing careers, McEnroe and Agassi met in four high-stakes matches, often in quarter-finals or later rounds. The head-to-head record between them stands tied at two wins apiece, reflecting a closely contested rivalry.

Agassi hopes to build on McEnroe’s legacy in the Laver Cup and is anticipated to push Team World toward improved outcomes compared to his predecessor. Their shared history and respect underline their lasting influence on tennis, both as champions and ambassadors.