‘Superbrat’ John McEnroe goes all out against Australian Open’s schedule extensions, slams the 'money grab'

The season’s first Grand Slam, the Australian Open, is right around the corner and is scheduled to host rich talents with the likes of Novak Djokovic, Carlos Alcaraz, Iga Swiatek, and Aryna Sabalenka.

The Flushing Meadows event recently broke the internet after announcing a massive increase to its prize money, which the players will mint provided their extended run in the hardcourt tournament.

While talking in an Australian Open media conference call with Mary Joe Fernandez, John McEnroe criticized the hardcourt event’s schedule extensions and further claimed it to be a “money grab,” an aspect he does not particularly condone.

First of all, it’s a money grab as far as I’m concerned. They just found another way to make some money. I don’t agree with it. I’m a commentator. No one’s particularly concerned about my feelings. McEnroe said via ESPN.

The retired tennis professional notably bagged 17 Grand Slam titles across the singles and doubles categories throughout his laudable tennis career on the Tour.

The players, if they accept it and they’re getting something from it, like some money for their pensions or retirement for some players that don’t have insurance, I would say that’s a good thing that they have added an extra day. He further added

Related: “It’s so embarrassing,” Naomi Osaka goes all shy remembering the time she starred in a movie!

John McEnroe cites his controversial opinion on women commentating on men’s tennis

In an interview, former American tennis star John McEnroe once stated that women should refrain from commentating on men’s tennis owing to their lack of knowledge about the men’s game.

I don't know any women who know the men's game. At the same time, I'm not sure men can really know the women's game. I mean, how would they know how women are feeling at a certain time of the month? . John McEnroe said via Salon.com

Former World No. 1 McEnroe will next feature as a commentator in the 2024 Australian Open, which commences on Sunday, January 14.