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| Paradorn Srichaphan and John McEnroe enjoy a joke together yesterday. |
JohnMcEnroe beat Bjorn Borg in straight sets in an entertaining exhibition match at the National Tennis Development Centre, Muang Thong Thani yesterday.
The American defeated his old rival from Sweden 7-6 (3), 7-5 in the PTT Legends in Bangkok, their final destination in a three-match series on the Asian Tour.
McEnroe, 49, won in Kuala Lumpur, while Borg, 52, triumphed in Macau.
McEnroe, a hot-tempered star during his playing days, entertained the crowd by seemingly intentionally venting his anger and joking actions including kissing the net.
The first set was locked at 5-5 when Born broke McEnroe for a 6-5 lead. But the American promptly broke back and won in a tie break.
The second set progressed in similar fashion when they were tied at 5-5. McEnroe then broke Borg and went on to win 7-5.
"We know each other very well. It's always exciting to play in a new court and a new atmosphere," said McEnroe who won seven Grand Slam titles.
"It was a short trip and I don't have much time here. I hope I can come back again and next time I will bring my wife and kids along with me."
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| McEnroe was more than happy to play to the crowd, poking fun at his well-earned reputation for having a hot temper on the court. |
Bjorn Borg pushes his rival all the way before slipping to a close defeat. |
Borg said it was always great to play McEnroe and that he had a great time during his short stay in Bangkok.
"To play with John, you have to be cool. He is hot. It is like hot and cool," said the 11-time Grand Slam winner.
"I like this country especially the people who are very helpful and kind."
In a doubles match which was played in a super tie break format, McEnroe and Danai Udomchoke defeated Borg and Paradorn Srichaphan 10-3.
"I am very happy to be invited to play in this competition. It is a good experience for me. It is good for me to be back on the court," said Paradorn who has not played competitive tennis for more than one year.
Danai also said it was a good experience to play with the two tennis legends.
"John McEnroe is my idol but Bjorn Borg had retired before I started playing," Danai said.
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