John McEnroe’s first marriage to actress Tatum O’Neal in 1986 was a significant chapter in his life, spanning eight years before they divorced in 1994. During their time together, the couple had three children, with McEnroe obtaining sole custody after the separation.
Three years after his divorce, McEnroe remarried, this time to rockstar Patty Smyth, a union that remains strong to this day. This relationship marked a fresh start for the former World No. 1, who initially had little interest in remarrying or expanding his family. However, Smyth’s presence changed his outlook dramatically, giving him what he described as a “second lease on life.”
John McEnroe Reflects on the Transformative Role of Patty Smyth
In a 2018 interview with Graham Bensinger, McEnroe candidly shared how his perspective shifted after meeting Smyth. At 35, he believed he was done with marriage and children, preferring casual relationships without serious commitments.
“I was 35 years old when we started to go out and at that time I thought I don’t want anymore kids, I don’t want to have another marriage. I just want to go out with some young girls who don’t want to do anything but have a good time, and then Patty came along. It gave me a second lease on life and she doesn’t get thanked enough,” John McEnroe said.
The tennis legend went further in expressing how Smyth positively influenced both his personal and emotional growth, stating their partnership enhanced who he is as a person.
“[Smyth] has allowed me to do my thing. She makes me more whole and a better person. I like to think we work as a team and we’ve made each other better, the sum of the two of us is better than individual parts,” he added.
Patty Smyth’s Musical Legacy and Life with McEnroe
Before her life with McEnroe, Patty Smyth gained fame as the lead singer of the rock band Scandal. She later achieved success with her solo career, notably earning Grammy and Academy Award nominations for her duet with James Ingram, “Look What Love Has Done.”
The couple, now residents of Manhattan, share two grown daughters and have built a life rooted in teamwork and mutual support. Their enduring bond reflects both personal and professional growth across more than two decades.
Patty Smyth on the Longevity of Their Marriage
In a 2020 interview with PEOPLE magazine, Smyth spoke openly about her marriage to McEnroe, expressing surprise and gratitude for their lasting relationship. Initially doubtful that their romance would last, she later recognized the rare connection they share.
“Twenty-something years later, I’m like ‘Wow’, I still have these feelings when I see him. Never did I think that I would ever be with somebody for this long. … I think we got very lucky.”
Living in New York City, the couple continues to balance their personal and family lives while maintaining their strong partnership.
The Lasting Impact of John McEnroe’s Second Marriage
John McEnroe’s second marriage to Patty Smyth has clearly influenced his life in profound ways, offering renewed purpose and happiness after his initial marriage ended. Their relationship highlights the power of second chances and collaboration in fostering personal growth. As both continue to thrive individually and together, their story remains an inspiring example of love’s ability to transform and enrich lives.