“It used to be… Bjorn Borg was the first rock star of tennis, then John McEnroe” – When Pat Cash felt tennis’ ‘glam Rock ‘n’ Roll’ image had changed

Pat Cash, an Australian tennis player known for his fiery playing style and iconic 1987 Wimbledon victory, once reflected on how the image of tennis had evolved from its “glam rock ‘n’ roll” days. He pointed out that tennis had once been associated with a certain rebellious, high-energy image, spearheaded by legendary players like Bjorn Borg and John McEnroe.

Cash noted that Bjorn Borg, with his long hair, calm demeanor, and incredible talent, was the first real “rock star” of tennis. Borg’s popularity transcended the sport, bringing a glamor and mystique that tennis hadn’t seen before.

Following Borg was John McEnroe, whose fiery personality, on-court outbursts, and undeniable skill made him the face of tennis’ rock ‘n’ roll spirit. McEnroe’s confrontations with umpires and his unpredictable playing style became part of his persona, further enhancing tennis’ rebellious image.

However, by the time Cash made these remarks, he felt that the sport had shifted away from this rock ‘n’ roll culture. He believed that tennis had become more polished, commercialized, and focused on professionalism rather than the rebellious individualism that characterized the 70s and 80s. The sport had embraced a more corporate image, with players becoming more media-trained and less likely to express their raw emotions on court in the way McEnroe and others had.

For Cash, this shift represented both an evolution and a loss. While the professionalism in tennis brought about increased fitness levels, better equipment, and more consistent performance, it also meant that some of the “glam rock” spirit of the game was left behind. The personalities that once dominated the sport and captured public imagination had given way to a more refined, less controversial brand of tennis star.