Readers Brush Up on French Open Thoughts

After reading the article sent in by Richard Dungan (June 6), I begin to wonder what kind of tennis fans we have out there. I am not saying that you have to love John McEnroe, but believing that he has no regard for the fans and that he is bad for the game is ridiculous. No one has done more to create interest and fan support for the game of tennis than John McEnroe. His genius with the racquet and genuine love of the game make tennis what is is today. I have only two words for Richard Dungan, Davis and Cup. If it weren’t for Mac, American tennis would be in real sad shape. Nothing has proven to be more important to McEnroe than Davis Cup. He’s a consummate team player and role model for young American players.

As for McEnroe’s recent French Open, fine. Name me one other sport where players are subjected to on-court microphones, which pick up your every word, even during commercials. And then have to use replay to find you guilty of swearing out loud. The bottom line is, whatever his shortcomings, John McEnroe has brought tennis to a new level of excitement and recognition. You can love him or hate him, but he’s got to be there, tennis needs him.

JAMES DAWSON

San Diego