John McEnroe: I wish I had played the Australian Open earlier

American tennis legend John McEnroe says he wishes he had started playing the Australian Open Grand Slam event earlier in his career while speaking in an interview to Forbes.

McEnroe, known for his serve-n-volley game on the court as well as for his famous outbursts, won seven Grand Slam singles titles in his career (four at the US Open and three at Wimbledon) but he did not win the Australian Open or French Open Grand Slam events. He also won nine men's Grand Slam doubles titles - again all of them coming at Wimbledon and the US Open.

John McEnroe says he wishes he had played the Australian Open earlier in his career

Speaking to Forbes, McEnroe spoke about his experience of travelling to different cities around the world during his days on the tour. “I loved the travel experience and getting to see all these major cities at such a young age was awesome. Paris was the first European city I visited. Every building was incredible and it’s where I developed a love of art. Also, the cultural options in London were fantastic. I first met Bjorn Borg in Stockholm, which is a great city. We quickly developed a relationship that lasts to this day. I wish I had played the Australian Open earlier, and perhaps I could have won a few more Slams."

McEnroe started playing on the pro tour in 1977 but it was not until 1983 that he made his first appearance at the Australian Open Grand Slam - reaching the semi-finals there. By the time, he finished his career on the pro circuit, he had played the tournament on only five occasions, compiling an 18-5 record at Melbourne. In doubles, his best performance at the Australian Open was reaching the semi-finals in 1989 in Melbourne.

The American, who is now a tennis commentator and also has his own academy, also said that New York remains his favourite city, due to its great energy and that he felt very much at home when he played in Italy as well. 

John McEnroe is considered to be among the greatest tennis players in men's tennis history. He was ranked No. 1 in both singles and doubles, and during his career, he won 77 singles and 78 doubles titles.

from Tennis World USA https://ift.tt/2RhHZhK