"If everyone can be like Rafael Nadal & give 100 percent every time they do something, that would be absolutely amazing; unfortunately, that’s very difficult to do" - John McEnroe
John McEnroe recently praised Rafael Nadal and said not many people can put in the effort that the 22-time Grand Slam does on a tennis court. McEnroe also expressed concern about Naomi Osaka and her future in the sport.
Speaking on the sidelines of his new documentary that debuted last week at the Tribeca Film Festival, the seven-time Grand Slam winner claimed Osaka's media boycott at last year's French Open has backfired as it has drawn more attention to her.
"I worry about Naomi because she did something (boycotted the media) that at the time she thought was right and an incredible thing," McEnroe was quoted as saying by New York Daily News. "But the problem is that there’s more attention on her – now how is she doing today? How’s the next one? Is she going to Wimbledon?"
McEnroe added that Naomi Osaka is very important to the sport but went on to claim that everyone has their own way of dealing with pressure, which may or may not be healthy.
"So what started out as something that was done for reasons she felt good about, now she’s probably not quite as sure about," McEnroe said. "And it’s too bad. Because she’s the type of person we need. Big time. She won four Grand Slams already. And everyone has their way of dealing with (pressure). Some are healthier than others. "
McEnroe also lamented the fact that not everyone can give "100 percent on the court" like Rafael Nadal.
"If everyone can be like Rafa Nadal and give 100 percent on the court or every time they do something, that would be absolutely amazing," the American said. "Unfortunately, that’s very difficult to do."
‘Angry rebel’ John McEnroe, still the greatest tennis player NYC produced, talked about his outbursts and issues
He discussed that, Naomi Osaka and more at his documentary, 'McEnroe,' at Tribeca Festival.
Film address his marriage to actress Tatum O’Neal
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"I find it healthy in a lot of ways that mental health is being talked about more openly" - John McEnroe
During the discussion, John McEnroe lauded the fact that mental health is being talked about freely these days. But he also feels that some things have gotten worse with the influx of more money into sport.
"I find it healthy in a lot of ways that (mental health) is being talked about more openly," McEnroe said. "But this isn’t something that just started. This started way before me. Obviously with more money in sports, it’s become more of a business. Parents see dollar signs in their eyes. It’s gotten way worse in that regard."
"McEnroe", the documentary, streaming on Showtime on September 2. https://t.co/vvu6fXaEwM