Serena and Common at the premiere of “Date Night” in 2010. (Photo : Reuters/Jessica Renaldi)
John McEnroe, winner of seven Grand Slam singles titles, shared his views in an interview about the need to boost tennis. He also cited that female tennis star Serena Williams is perfect as a United States president-with him in the vice-presidency seat, of course.
"I would have thought that a woman would have become president before a black man. What I think is frustrating for Americans is that it feels like more was going to change with Obama," McEnroe said in a BBC live interview with BBC correspondent Russell Fuller. He also added that because of this, maybe the people "need a black woman - maybe we get Serena to run."
McEnroe also said that although it is against his nature to become a politician, there are plenty of things that he would like to change. One of his frustrations is the fact that tennis is still a predominantly white sport. He also shared his views on the future of tennis, being the member of the Legends Advisory Board for ATP.
"When I came on the tour," McEnroe started, "I thought, why don't they treat tennis players the same way they look at football players?" The reason, he said, is that when the players are on the pitch, they do not say 'Hello, how are you?' out there.
McEnroe, known for being outspoken, also cited that tennis will be more exciting for the players if they were asked to call their own lines. This, he believes, will make the game more intense. In addition, he said that the five-minute knock-up before every match should be abolished, as it is likely to break the tension during the occasion.
