You already know "The Twelve Days of Christmas"—so we're doing something a little different this year. Throughout December, we'll highlight 12 things about the 2014 PowerShares Series, a competitive tennis circuit featuring legendary icons and world-renowned champions beginning on February 5.
For our eighth Q&A, we spoke to John McEnroe, one of the few men in history to hold the world No. 1 ranking in singles and doubles.
TENNIS.com: How do you train to prepare for the PowerShares Series?
JOHN MCENROE: I train at a gym and play tennis regularly at my tennis club, combined about five or six days a week.
TENNIS.com: Among PowerShares Series players, who was your toughest opponent during your career and why?
JOHN MCENROE: Pete Sampras, because his game is very difficult to play against. He keeps his opponent constantly off guard, so it is extremely difficult to get any rhythm or control of the match.
TENNIS.com: Who are you most looking forward to facing this season?
JOHN MCENROE: Jimmy Connors and Ivan Lendl, because we had great rivalries and we both know we will give it our all to beat each other.
TENNIS.com: Most bizarre moment you ever experienced on court?
JOHN MCENROE: When I was 15 and playing in Kalamazoo, I ran into a light pole on the side of the court and was knocked out for a little while—when I woke up, I was seeing stars!!! Fortunately, the tournament director gave me some time to get myself together so that I was able to continue and eventually win the match.
TENNIS.com: Your best serving tip for recreational players?
JOHN MCENROE: Get your first serve in the court more often by not going for too much on the first serve.
TENNIS.com: If you could have played any other sport professionally, what would you choose?
JOHN MCENROE: Professional basketball for the New York Knicks.
