John McEnroe says he tested positive for Covid-19 and will miss US Open TV coverage
“Unfortunately, after feeling a bit under the weather, I tested positive for COVID,” McEnroe said in a statement released on Tuesday.
Tennis legend John McEnroe has revealed that he has tested positive for Covid-19 and will not be available to perform his duties as ESPN analyst in the US Open. McEnroe, who was not present in the commentary box for the first two days of the tournament, shared the news on Wednesday, adding that he will follow the action unfold from the comforts of his home.
There is no official word yet on McEnroe's date of return and also no certainty whether he will be able to resume commentary duties before the US Open concludes on September 10 with the men's singles final. "Unfortunately, after feeling a bit under the weather, I tested positive for Covid. I’m watching the US Open from home & can’t wait to get back to work soon," read a statement shared by the 64-year-old. Sending best wishes to McEnroe, ESPN said that it looks forward "to welcoming him back when he's ready."
The fourth and final Grand Slam of the year – the US Open – began this Monday, and as per the protocols of the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, if someone tests positive for Covid test, he/she should stay home for at least five days and isolate themselves from others. Those who have had moderate illness, are advised to isolate themselves for at least 10 days.
McEnroe is a name that has become synonymous with commentary at the US Open. His effervescent style is much loved by people across the world and his interviews with players after the matches at Flushing Meadows often manage to throw the crowds into peals of laughter. One of the finest tennis players ever to grace the court, McEnroe succeeded in winning seven Grand Slam titles during his illustrious career which spanned over 28 years. At the US Open itself, McEnroe lifted the trophy on four occasions.
He was crowned the US Open champion three times on the trot from 1979 to 1981 and won his fourth title in 1984. His other three Grand Slam triumphs took place at Wimbledon, where he emerged victorious in 1981, 1983 and 1984. The year 1984 also marked McEnroe's last Grand Slam title victory. During his playing days, McEnroe was involved in one of the most enthralling tennis rivalries ever with Sweden's Bjorn Borg.
Outside his success in singles, McEnroe exhibited his brilliance in doubles competition as well, earning nine Grand Slam titles and making in 12 appearances in the finals. Out of McEnroe's nine doubles titles, seven came teaming up with his fellow countryman and long-term partner Peter Fleming. McEnroe retired from tournament tennis in 1992, following which he decided to venture into broadcasting.
