Tennis Legends' Stories Debut on PBS
- A new PBS documentary series features tennis legends such as John McEnroe and Billie Jean King discussing their legacies.
- The series highlights the impact these players had on the sport.
- It serves as an inspirational recount of their careers and contributions to tennis.
PBS is set to premiere "Gods of Tennis," a three-part documentary series on July 23, that delves into the lives and legacies of tennis icons like John McEnroe, Billie Jean King, and Arthur Ashe. The series highlights how these players not only excelled on the court but also made significant cultural impacts. McEnroe, known for his fiery personality and memorable outbursts, such as his famous “You cannot be serious!” at Wimbledon, exemplifies the passion that characterized tennis in the 1970s and '80s. Director Simon Draper emphasizes the unique blend of talent and theatricality that defined this era of tennis, contrasting it with the more commercialized nature of the sport today. The documentary features a mix of archival footage and new interviews, providing a comprehensive look at the players' experiences and the sport's evolution. King, a pivotal figure in advocating for equal prize money, reflects on the significance of Wimbledon, noting that it was the tournament every player aspired to win, despite the amateurism that once dominated the sport. The series also pays tribute to Arthur Ashe, who made history in 1975 as the first Black man to win Wimbledon. Ashe's courageous stand against racism, particularly during his participation in apartheid-era South Africa, is highlighted as a testament to his character and influence. Draper critiques the current state of tennis, suggesting that the commercialization of the sport has diminished fans' connection to players, making it harder for contemporary stars to resonate with the public as their predecessors did.