Tennis fans have expressed frustration with ESPN commentator John McEnroe during the recent US Open mixed doubles coverage. The seven-time Grand Slam champion was criticized by viewers who called out his commentary style and several factual mistakes during the broadcast.
Why Are Fans Criticizing John McEnroe’s US Open Commentary?
The 66-year-old McEnroe has remained a prominent voice in tennis since retiring from professional competition nearly 33 years ago. Despite his legendary status as one of the sport’s greatest players, his recent ESPN commentary work left many viewers frustrated and vocal about their displeasure.
The criticism centered around McEnroe’s coverage of the mixed doubles semifinals, where World No. 2 Iga Świątek and partner Casper Ruud staged a remarkable comeback against Jessica Pegula and Jack Draper. After dropping the opening set, Świątek and Ruud rallied to claim a 3-5, 5-3(10-8) victory, securing their spot in the final.
While Świątek’s team received widespread praise for their performance, McEnroe’s commentary drew harsh reactions from viewers who expressed their frustration on social media.
“McEnroe is always awful on mic, but he’s especially bad tonight ,” one viewer posted.
McEnroe is always awful on mic, but he’s especially bad tonight
— San Pellegrino (@sanpellepapi) August 21, 2025
“Anyone know how I can mute John McEnroe & John McEnroe only? He’s so bad.Incredible match though. Wow,” another commented.
Beyond general complaints about his commentary style, fans also called out specific factual errors. One particularly glaring mistake involved McEnroe incorrectly stating that Italian player Sara Errani’s career-high ranking was No. 2, when her actual peak ranking was No. 5.
Errani and her partner Andrea Vavassori, the defending champions, dismissed Danielle Collins and Christian Harrison in the semifinals, with McEnroe in the commentary box with his brother Patrick, and Mary Joe Fernández.
“Leave it to John McEnroe to get it wrong Errani was never No 2 in the world in singles. She got as high as No 5!” they said.
Another fan shared a meme to express similar frustration with the error:
“ik McEnroe didn’t just say Errani was once world no. 2 in singles…”
ik McEnroe didn’t just say Errani was once world no. 2 in singles… pic.twitter.com/xvzMGzYzD9
— Christian’s Court (@christianscourt) August 21, 2025
The criticism extended beyond factual mistakes to questions about McEnroe’s overall preparation and knowledge of current tennis events. Fans pointed out moments where he seemed confused about basic rules and recent developments.
“Is there any person on earth that wants John McEnroe commentating matches any more,” one fan bluntly stated.
“Must I suffer through John McEnroe for an extra week ,” another chimed in.
Some viewers expressed disbelief when McEnroe asked for clarification on basic tennis rules during the broadcast:
“McEnroe asking clarification on basic tennis rules sigh.”
McEnroe asking clarification on basic tennis rules sigh
— arun (@slicerun) August 20, 2025
One fan highlighted a particularly confusing moment where McEnroe contradicted himself within seconds:
John McEnroe “that’s why they’re seeded 1”
*two seconds later*
“How did they come up with the seeding?”
— Earl of Tennis (@HumpA_55) August 20, 2025
Adding to concerns about his preparation, fans noted McEnroe’s apparent lack of awareness about recent coaching changes in professional tennis. World No. 3 Coco Gauff had split with coach Matt Daly just days before the US Open, but McEnroe seemed unaware of this significant development.
“John McEnroe didn’t even know Coco hired a new coach… so why does he keep commentating matches,” they commented.
What Can We Expect From the Iga Świątek and Casper Ruud US Open Mixed Doubles Final?
Świątek and Ruud now face a formidable challenge in the mixed doubles final against defending champions Sara Errani and Andrea Vavassori. The Italian pair demonstrated continued dominance throughout this year’s tournament, showing the same form that earned them the title in 2024.
Errani and Vavassori secured their spot in the final by defeating home favorites Danielle Collins and Christian Harrison 4-2, 4-2, controlling the match from start to finish. As defending champions with proven chemistry in mixed doubles competition, the Italian duo enters the final as the team to beat.
However, Świątek and Ruud have shown their resilience and ability to perform under pressure. Their semifinal comeback victory demonstrates the fighting spirit that could serve them well in the championship match.
