John McEnroe says the WTA tour is too physically demanding

John McEnroe is certainly not one to mince words. The boisterous tennis hall of famer had this to say about the demands of the WTA on players.

“I don’t want to push women to play more than they’re capable of,” McEnroe said during a conference call promoting CBS’ coverage of the U.S. Open.

“Women have it better in tennis than any other sport, but you shouldn’t push them to play more than they’re capable of playing,” McEnroe said. “The game has become more physical than it’s ever been and then you deal with what is thrown out not only from the opponent but the expectations they have for themselves.”

Had McEnroe left it at that, there would not be a controversy of sorts. But his next words may land him in hot water with some feminist groups.

McEnroe also noted that the game is more physical for the men, but he made it clear that he thought the women needed a break.

“You’re asking too much of the women,” McEnroe said. “They shouldn’t be playing as many events as men. If tennis is best served by women playing events with men, so be it.

“They should be required to be in less events, there should be less events for the women. It seems it takes an actual meltdown on the court or women quitting the game altogether before they realize there’s a need to change the schedule.”

WTA tour commissioner Stacey Allaster bit her tongue and went the safe route by not really offering her opinion. But it will be interesting to see the responses from some of the female players regarding these quotes. There have undoubtedly been a string of retirements from some of the top women’s players the last few years only to reemerge some time later. Several have said they were just burnt out and couldn’t go anymore.

So maybe, just maybe Johnny Mac isn’t that far off.

John McEnroe says women’s tennis schedule is too demanding for players [LA Times]

--- Did you like this article? And you probably like contests, exclusive content, and smug commentary right? Then why aren't you liking Guyism on Facebook? Show some pride and click the "Like" button below right now: