Former grand slam champion John McEnroe has courted controversy during his time in the commentary box, with his French Open appearance just the latest such example
John McEnroe delivered an emotional goodbye on Sunday as NBC aired the French Open for the final time before the competition moves to a new home in the United States.
McEnroe, who is also part of the BBC’s Wimbledon broadcast team, remained part of NBC’s coverage for the men’s final after catching heat for his controversial comments about Iga Swiatek. The 65-year-old’s quip about world number one Swiatek’s lack of make-up weren’t received kindly by those watching at home, with some even addressing NBC directly with complaints.
Swiatek won the women’s singles title, beating Italy’s Jasmine Paolini in the final. The following day, Carlos Alcaraz overcame Alexander Zverev to win the men’s singles crown at Roland Garros.
Warner Bros. Discovery, which owns Eurosport and TNT Sports among other brands, will take over hosting duties from 2025 onwards. This meant McEnroe’s NBC appearance represented something of a farewell, and he took the opportunity for some thank yous and goodbyes.
McEnroe first paid tribute to Mary Carillo, his former mixed doubles partner and the host of NBC’s coverage. The pair have worked together on screen for a number of years, while McEnroe’s own NBC involvement goes back to the tail end of his playing days.
“While I have a chance, Mary, for all the years, it’s the last set, fifth set, for everything, we’ve worked together so often,” McEnroe said towards the end of Alcaraz’s victory. “Thank you so much. Give me a hug. Love you.
“NBC, thank you so much. You gave me my first job as a broadcaster. I appreciate that. What a way to go out with this match. Great effort by both guys.”
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McEnroe’s controversial comments about Swiatek came during the 23-year-old’s victory over Paolini and referenced her sponsorship deal with Lancome. “You think if they offer her enough, Lancome, maybe she would consider throwing on a little makeup for the right price?” the American said.
“I’ll let someone else handle McEnroe wondering if Iga Swiatek might ‘throw on a little makeup’ if she’d accepted the Lancome deal because… wtf?” wrote one viewer. “Disrespectful and disappointing. Would he say this in a men’s match?” asked another.
“I will not watch NBC until McEnroe is fired for sexist comment. Did HE wear make-up while playing?” wrote a third. McEnroe could find himself under scrutiny at Wimbledon as he returns to BBC duty, having received criticism from Australian pro John Millman for separate comments during last year’s tournament at SW19.
The BBC have confirmed the American will be part of their roster this summer. Former Wimbledon men’s singles finalist Nick Kyrgios will also feature as an analyst, along with 2021 women’s singles winner Ash Barty.