MESSAGE #1044 BOOK REVIEW – HARDCOURT CONFIDENTIAL

I was fortunate enough to get an advance copy of Patrick McEnroe’s new book, “Hardcourt Confidential,” which comes out in stores June 8th.

In this book, McEnroe talks about his twenty years on the pro tour as a player, coach and ESPN commentator.

I loved the stories of Agassi, Connors, Johnny Mac, Sampras, Federer, Nadal and others, especially the mental side of the game. Here is an excerpt from one of Patrick McEnroe’s matches when he was on tour…

Let me go back to 1991, before we leave Australia, to finish the story of my best run in singles at a major event. In the semis, I had Boris Becker by a set and I wrangled my way to a couple of break points early in the second; I could have gone up 4-2 if I converted either of them. But somewhere in there I clearly remember saying to myself, Shit, I could be in the Australian Open finals…

And that’s exactly when the wheels started to fall off — and Becker was too good a player not to jump in and help finish the job.

So folks, mental weakness happens to the pros, too.

Do I recommend this book?

Yes.

In fact, if you are in the Princeton area on June 12 at 3pm, Patrick McEnroe will be doing a book signing at Barnes & Noble MarketFair. See you there.