Justine Henin exclusively on Alexander Zverev’s freaks: The subtle difference to Jon McEnroe

John McEnroe and Jimmy Connors were notorious for their outbursts of anger on the pitch. The weddings of the two tennis icons were around 40 years ago, but nowadays parallels are often drawn when the current stars of the scene misbehave.

Justine Henin finds the comparison only partially appropriate. “Of course” McEnroe and Connors would have exceeded their limits, “but they stayed in their match, they were insightful,” said the Belgian, who ended her career in 2011.

“I would prefer the professionals to excel in their style of play, communicate with the crowd, share things, be creative,” Henin told Eurosport.

Recorded from the TV show Eurosport Tennis Club

Generally speaking, do tennis pros allow themselves too much on the court?

Justine Henin: Yes, they go too far. We experience scenes that are unacceptable. Players who leave the pitch for no apparent reason, such as Alexander Bublik. This was also recently seen with Victoria Azarenka. One mustn’t forget: there are people who have bought tickets, TV stations who collect fees. In addition, there are sponsors who spend quite a bit of money to be able to pay these players. I don’t find that acceptable.

The phenomenon is not entirely new.

What role does the increased TV presence play?

Henin: It’s true that everything is becoming more and more commented on and more present through TV recordings. But that can’t be an excuse to allow such behavior because there are young players who look at it. Top athletes must remain role models, even if they are only human.

The ATP has reacted and announced tougher penalties for unsportsmanlike behavior.

At the same time, there is always a demand that tennis needs people with rough edges and that it shouldn’t become too “germ-free”.

Henin: What bothers me about this debate is that it boils down to the question, “Do we have ‘germ-free’ tennis?” I would prefer if the pros were characterized by their playing style, that they communicate with the audience, that they share things, that they are creative. In my view, if the plan to make tennis attractive is to be vulgar and violent, then the limits have been crossed. Again, I truly believe that tennis can be incredibly awesome through the game itself, creativity and many other fantastic things.

Which cannot hide the fact that some stars from earlier years have misbehaved.

Henin: Of course it was like that with McEnroe or Connors, but they stayed in their match, were insightful. At Brooksby, however, there was not even an apology, nothing will happen. There is also an educational problem. With these physical reactions, it becomes apparent that some are unable to control their frustration. Nevertheless, it is and remains important to learn exactly this. It’s on TV, the professionals have a responsibility.

Thank you for the interview, Ms. Henin