Childhood and Education Journey of John McEnroe in Timeline

Discover the defining moments in the early life of John McEnroe. From birth to education, explore key events.

John McEnroe is a retired American professional tennis player, renowned for his exceptional shot-making and volleying abilities. He achieved the world No. 1 ranking in both singles (for 170 weeks) and doubles (for 269 weeks), uniquely holding both simultaneously. His career was marked by intense rivalries with Björn Borg and Jimmy Connors. McEnroe's confrontational behavior on the court often led to disputes with umpires and tennis authorities, contributing to his controversial yet captivating image.

Sections (5)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles

February 16, 1959: John McEnroe's Birth

On February 16, 1959, John Patrick McEnroe Jr. was born. He would later become a world No. 1 ranked professional tennis player.

Others born on this day/year

1961: Move to New York City

In 1961, the McEnroe family moved to New York City, settling in Flushing, Queens.

1964: Birth of Brother Mark

In 1964, John McEnroe's brother, Mark, was born.

1966: Birth of Brother Patrick

In 1966, John McEnroe's brother, Patrick, who also became a professional tennis player, was born.

1977: Graduation from Trinity School

In 1977, John McEnroe graduated from Trinity School in Manhattan.

1978: NCAA Title and ATP Tour Debut

In 1978, John McEnroe won the NCAA singles title and led Stanford to an NCAA championship. Later in 1978, he joined the ATP tour and signed his first professional endorsement deal with Sergio Tacchini.

August 1, 1986: Marriage to Tatum O'Neal

On August 1, 1986, John McEnroe married actress Tatum O'Neal.

1986: Marriage to Tatum O'Neal

In 1986, John McEnroe married Tatum O'Neal, the daughter of actor Ryan O'Neal.

1991: Birth of Daughter Emily

In 1991, John McEnroe and Tatum O'Neal had their daughter, Emily.

1992: Retirement from Professional Tour

At the end of 1992, John McEnroe retired from the professional tour. He ended his singles career ranked world No. 20.

1993: Opening of Art Gallery in Manhattan

In 1993, John McEnroe, a collector of American contemporary art, opened a gallery in Manhattan.

1994: Divorce from Tatum O'Neal

In 1994, John McEnroe and Tatum O'Neal divorced.

1997: Marriage to Patty Smyth

In 1997, John McEnroe married rock singer Patty Smyth, with whom he has two daughters. They live on Manhattan's Upper West Side.

1997: Formation and End of The Johnny Smyth Band

In 1997, John McEnroe was playing in cities on a senior tour with his band, The Johnny Smyth Band. He then suddenly quit before finishing his first album. His wife, Patty Smyth, told him that only one of them would be working away from home on a music tour, and it would not be him.

1998: Sole Custody of Children

In 1998, John McEnroe was awarded sole custody of his children with Tatum O'Neal due to O'Neal's addiction to heroin.

2000: Cocaine Use Acknowledgment

In a 2000 interview, John McEnroe acknowledged using cocaine during his career, but he denied that the drug affected his play. Rumors of drug abuse had begun during his second sabbatical.