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John McEnroe On Life, Tennis And Overcoming An 'Addiction' To Crossing The Line

In his new book "But Seriously," a more nuanced McEnroe emerges: a calmer, more introspective and at times sentimental version of his still-opinionated self.
In his new book, “But Seriously,” a more nuanced John McEnroe emerges: a calmer, more introspective and at times sentimental version of his still-opinionated self. Pictured: McEnroe returns a shot during a charity tennis match in Tokyo in 2013. (Shizuo Kambayashi/AP)

Tennis legend John McEnroe made news this week when he told NPR that if Serena Williams “played the men’s circuit she’d be like 700 in the world.” McEnroe’s fans won’t be surprised by his strong opinions.

But in his new book, “But Seriously,” a more nuanced McEnroe emerges: a calmer, more introspective and at times sentimental version of his still-opinionated self. The book is full of tennis lore, but also a look at his other interests and passions — from art to music to family.

McEnroe joins Here & Now‘s Robin Young to talk about his life on and off the court.

Book Excerpt: ‘But Seriously’

By John McEnroe

5:14 a.m., June 8, 2015, Paris

I wake up in

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