I was fortunate enough to be at 2 of those Connors matches. It was like a football crowd, not a tennis crowd. Some of the most fun I have ever had at any sporting event.
wow! I wish I could've been there. I watched the krickstein match live it was amazing. that's when I started watching tennis. don't watch it at all now...
That match against Patrick McEnroe - I still cite it as the most exciting tennis match I’ve ever seen. I was so down that Jimmy was going to lose in straight sets, and suddenly, he saves the set, and then the match! The way he worked the crowd was fantastic. Legend.
I remember, I’d gotten up for some reason & decided to have a smoke before I went back to bed. I was just channel surfing & came on that Conners McEnroe match. I’d grown up watching Conners, so seeing him made me a little nostalgic & since he was down a break in the 3rd, it looked like it’d probably be over around the time my smoke was finished, lol. I was so pumped at the end, I didn’t get back to bed till almost 3:30 that night🤣 I can still clearly remember Jimmy & that crowd.
I grew up outside Philadelphia in the 70's. And went to a few games. Saw Dr. J in person, Magic and Kareem, Pete Rose, Joe Morgan and Mike Schmidt and Steve Carlton. All GREAT competitors and you can feel it when you are at the venue, watching them live. But THE MOST intense competitor, by far, was Jimmy Connors. I saw him, Mac, Arthur Ashe and others at an indoor tennis tournament in Philly. And every point (and I mean every) Jimmy played as if his life was on the line. His life. The vibe and intensity coming off of him was something I've never forgotten. I have since seen Federer live at the US Open as well as the Williams sisters. They too, were (obviously) very special to watch. But Connors and the feeling coming off of him was insane.
Modern tennis is just not as exciting. Lots of bellyaching to the chair or to the crowd, but not as fun to watch. Talented? Over the top great today's players are.....but fun too watch?
@@sk-un5jq Both comments are spot on. I have adored the Ice Maiden since the early '70s, a spectacular champion, a "Consistent" winner, her winning percentage is unbelievable and throw in a "beautiful" woman, who had a feminine quality every time she walked out on the court.
Connors inspired me so much, id practice serves on a icy court in dead of winter, ab LOVED the game, Loved Connors n Evert too, didnt get ta see Connors live, but i did Chris Evert/P Shriver.. in a V Slims in Memphis Tn, as well as S Edberg, M pernfors, Mac attack, Yannick Noah, M Mecir,,, Grt days in mid 80s!
I played tons of tennis in my 20s and 30s and being roughly same age as Jimmy and Chrissie initially didn't like Connors. But he grew on me and I then cheered him on. Chrissie always my favorite with the graceful Evonne a close second.Today's tennis can't compare to the greats of yesteryear
And they literally were in love with each other at one time. Unfortunately Chrissie had a monogamy issue (and still does) and then got pregnant with Jimmy's child. The rest as they say is history.
I was there for the Harhuis match. Scalped tickets for $250 outside the stadium for 2. The ticket scalper said "I hope he wins, because prices go up for the next round". We were high up, but the noise during the 4 lobs and winner shook the stadium. Was on my way back from a business trip during the Krickstein match, and an airport bar had people 3 rows deep watching the TV towards the outside of the bar. I got home in time for the 5th set.
Watched all of Jimbo's matches in this glorious run and now in 2022 looking back at these matches and brings happy memories. What a great champion he was despite losing in semis.Thanks Jimmy for the memories
Have no idea why you are trying to insult me as I don't know who you are! Perhaps you're bored and have nothing else to so have at it but don't expect further responses from me
What's amazing about that Krickstein match is, that the overhead Jimmy hit at 7 all in the tiebreaker was extremely close, but I think it was actually out and the correct call by the umpire to overrule. Again, I THINK it was out, but that's the way I saw it. And that moment changed the match. Still one of the greatest matches in US Open history. In Tennis history, in fact. What a run these two weeks were. People to this day think of that tournament as Jimmy's. They don't even remember that Stefan Edberg won it.
@@jppsfingers50 Poor Edberg he doesn't deserve that c'mon. Just a very quiet and shy guy probably, that was his personality. I remember very well a Wimbledon final that he won against Becker, the famous Roland Garros final he lost against Chang and a great game at 1985 AO against Ivan Lendl. Definitely he wasn't a crowd pleaser or an attention seeker, but that was just the way he was I guess. Having a shy personality doesn't mean having NO personality IMO.
Jimmy Connors is a national treasure, and he (along with a few others) is DIRECTLY responsible for not only opening up the big prize money to the sport, but Connors transformed the culture of tennis from being a sport played only by those in high society to being played by regular guys too.
What a load of fresh cow dung. If he is responsible for what you said he is, he is also responsible for the worlds "regulars" in everything. I don't think so. Jimmy is no national treasure, and he is no regular guy.
Jimmy Connors was one of the rare tennis players who definitly popularize tennis. Because his style of play was unique and his personality was so strong, he was a perfect tennis player for the media, TV broadcast and tennis History.
I remember staying up late watching this courageous man fight like a tiger. Jimmy willed himself through that tournament. This was the best U.S. open period.
I've seen thousands of sporting events over the years. Connors's run and Jack Nicklaus winning the 1986 Masters are still the two greatest situations I've ever seen.
Great examples, because both would be near the top of my list. Jack's win especially, because as a kid, he was really the only golfer I cared about. Funny thing is, when I was a kid, Jack winning at 46 was considered almost impossible. In todays golf, its not really all that old.
Of all the Tennis Greats, Jimmy Connors has one of the best resolute positive mind/attitude in life!!! He never lets the negative get into him. All throughout he just goes for the winning NO MATTER WHAT!!! GREAT JOB JIMMY!!!
I remember watching this run and it truly was magical. 39 years old in 1991, kids, was something different than today. It was like watching a 50-year-old today do the same thing. It was truly awesome. And I've never been much of a Connors fan but I was watching him do this.
I was 7 years old watching this with my dad that Summer/Fall of 1991 and I remember laughing hysterically when Jimmy said, "Very clear MY BUTT!" I became a HUGE fan after that moment! That was a magical run!!!
I have never seen anyone hit the ball with such precision. He literally hit his backhand the same place on the racquet every single time. He was a machine with a heart of iron.
I been to the first match with Patrick McEnroe. And I didn't pay, I got the ticket via the local sports ("Fan") radio station earlier that day. Worst possible seat, up high, last row. But by the end of the 3rd set half of the stadium emptied as it was very late and Jimmy was losing. So slowly was working my way down. By the end of the 4th set I had a VIP seat all the way down by the court. Best free meal in my life. Another thing was that I was given a pair of tickets, and couldn't find anyone interested to go with me on such short notice, finally one friend had a friend that jumped on the wagon. As Jimmy was rolling trough this tournament the tickets were basically impossible to obtain. One could feel that special atmosphere in the air, the excitement, the newspapers headlines; Thanks WFAN
@@razorback9926 I think that's being a bit harsh bro; you gotta keep in mind the huge equipment changes of the 80's. Absolutely no comparison between rackets of 90 forward and the rackets of the 70's both in terms of power and head size. most of jimmy's successes were with the old T-2000 or 300 frame which was a horrible racket with no power watch connors vs courier 91 open and you get a feel that if he had been in the modern era he woulda adapted and been a top player.
That point against Haarhuis...I get CHILLS anytime I see it. I've never before or since seen a tennis crowd THAT STIRRED UP while watching. It transcends the sport...absolutely a magical moment.
In 1991 I got to meet Jimmy Connors in New Haven Connecticut he played an exhibition match against Michael Chang. Both of these players were my favorites at that time. I also got to see him play as a 14-year-old also in 1991 at the U.S. Open. I got to see a young Pete Sampras, young Monica Seles, Capriotti who was also my age and my tennis Idol, etc. boy that was a magical year for me and for tennis
It was at New Haven Coliseum. I was 14 years old and I was desperate to get my program book signed by both of them. A black man who worked at the Coliseum took the sticker off of his chest and handed it to me so I could gain entrance to the back. I walked right down the hallway I met Michael Chang first I asked him for his autograph and he was just so sweet and gracious. I saw Jimmy second he was very nice but it was obvious he was in a hurry. But like I said I was a little 14-year-old girl so he wasn't going to be rude to me. I can't believe how calm and collected I was LOL I was like excuse me Mr. Jimmy Connors May I please have your autograph? you are one of my favorites! I love your matches against McEnroe. Can't wait to see you at the US open this year! Exactly what I said. He was so nice he smiled at me, signed my book, and let me take the tennis ball. I swore I floated out of that place that night
Neat story!!! I met him in Sacramento exhibition. Don't remember the year (late 80's) but he was playing John McEnroe and won. Before the game, I went to to the inside bar to get a drink and Connors was standing there alone other than a couple talking to him while he drank some water out of a glass. I waited for him to finish with the couple and introduced myself (hi, I'm a dork, and I sure have loved your game over the years) He shook my hand but I never even thought about an autograph. Out the door he went to take on Mac - there dork stood with his mouth open...
@@koko40800 I'm laughing as I type . Yes he was an A-Hole and so was Johnny Mac ......AND ....I loved them both for their unbelievable competitiveness AND TALENT....... sometimes hated their bitter meanness at times. Johnny Mac has mellowed greatly - no less competitive and I don't see Jimmy much , so don't know but I suspect he has mellowed greatly as well.... he also appears to have lost NONE of his competitiveness.
I couldn't have cared less about tennis before or after that tournament, but, as a 13 year old kid, I was glued to the screen when Connors was playing. Incredible run!
@@cicerotavaresjunior4853 Thanks for the love and words of encouragement I must say that I have enormous respect for you considering the manner in which I have made contact with you,Your comment gave me goosebumps and I decided to honor you.I’m very glad you’re fan of mine for that I would love to have a private conversation with you if that’s okay with you reach out to me privately via email
Great analogy. Pro wrestling is theater, not sport. At this point in his career, Connors had NO chance to win the tournament, but his antics were considered entertaining by many. To each their own. I'll take the Federers and Samprases , far greater champions with much better games overall.
God, I remember his run in '91. These clips are great memories but they don't capture the tension of the full matches, and the amazement when Connors would suddenly explode with seemingly magical shots.
I remember when i was a little kid i would do the triple lawnmower arm pump celebration imitating Jimmy Connors when my dad & i would watch him play in the 1980s. Great Memories, Rest easy, Pops..❤🙏👊
I remember my Uncle's changed the channel when he was down 2 sets and 40 love in the 3rd game of the 3rd set to Patrick. i lost my mind and said you don't ever count Jimmy out! They changed it back and it was the best Jimmy match ever, until the next one of course.
jlr0926 I remember that night. I had to work early, so I needed to get to bed but, since Connor’s was losing & it was going to be his last US Open, I figured I’d watch the last 15/20 minutes of it. I didn’t end up getting to sleep till around 2:00 am & had to get up at 4:30, but it was totally worth it! 🤣
Tennis was the best in them great years, so many fantastic players, watched many of them at Wimbledon when we would sleep outside in our homemade tents, magic days
Great post. I loved Jimmy Connors' gung ho showboating after some, in what I believe, were the best points he ever played in tennis AND at 39! He certainly got more power from the new racket era.
i remember watching all of that as a kid - it was really exciting. I was more a John McEnroe fan than Jimmy, but after that awesome run I soon became a Jimmy Conners fan. He made that fluorescent racket popular too.
Connors has never been praised for his talent, like say Federer or McEnroe. I was a fan of McEnroe yet I admired Connors. His fighting spirit was absolutely something else and an inspiration.
@@jimmyconnors5685 Thank you Jimmy for the many hours of enjoyment I had watching you and your tennis prowess. I started watching your matches in the 70s. You are the people's champion.
@@maple1255 Thanks for the love and words of encouragement I must say that I have enormous respect for you considering the manner in which I have made contact with you,Your comment gave me goosebumps and I decided to honor you.I’m very glad you’re fan of mine for that I would love to have a private conversation with you if that’s okay with you reach out to me privately via email
Hard to imagine anyone not appreciating what Connors achieved here. As for Courier beating him, he was very young, Connors last hurrah. Conners is reason I follow tennis today. Great champion.
Not very realistic since Courier retired from pro tennis at 30 yrs old in 2000. Connors was 39 when he lost to the 21 yr old Courier at the 1991 US Open! Try and get your facts straight next time!
ive followed the Baltimore Orioles since Brooks owned the '70 World Series. Ive followed the Boston Celtics since they drafted Dave Cowens in '70. ive followed the Boston Red Sox since Fisk waved that Home Run fair in '75 World Series. but....... _My all-time favorite athlete_ ....is *JAMES SCOTT CONNORS*
This was the 3rd greatest sporting event I’ve ever seen. Behind 1980 Olympic hockey team and Kirk Gibson’s 1988 World Series home run. The event atmosphere was electric. The crowd was so behind Connors. I was watching at home and felt the crowd energy. I don’t believe you can understand from watching it now. I believe you had to be part of that moment time.
@@jimmyconnors5685 as long as I can remember. Im 57, and all my friends liked McEnroe and Martina. I was Jimmy and Chris. Tennis hasn’t been as good since your era.
@@michaelbelcher2041 Thanks for the love and words of encouragement I must say that I have enormous respect for you considering the manner in which I have made contact with you,Your comment gave me goosebumps and I decided to honor you.I’m very glad you’re fan of mine for that I would love to have a private conversation with you if that’s okay with you reach out to me privately via email
Hello Jimmy it is after watching you I became a big fan of tennis. There has never been a greater entertainer than you in tennis. Thank you so much for the entertainment you gave.
Connors was awesome to watch. As a kid I was immediately attracted to his intensity and loved his game. Even though he didn't win this tourney he was THE story and the 2nd place story wasn't even close.
Soccer is definitely my most sentimental favorite sport but as a good tennis player myself in my youth I used to enjoy watching those 80s and 90s big matches . But there is no live sport event that I so much still remember so vividly like the Jimmy Connors and Aaron Krickstein match. It is like it happened exactly yesterday . I still remember the time, where I was sitting, what I was doing .... unbelievable!!!!
Connors loved a target at the net. That is why Courier brushed him aside with solid grounstrokes. But Connors had more fight and will to win than any tennis player, past or present.
This clip doesn't show it, but as Jimmy is leaving the court after the Krickstein match, his old buddy Vitas Gerulaitis is there waiting for him there in the tunnel. Vitas was also doing color commentary on this match because a couple of times when close enough to a microphone Jimmy would call out to him.
I happened to catch that Pat McEnroe match surfing the cable channels.. Fond memory.. Connors hit the ball so flat, which always astounded me.. And his return of serve was just vicious..
@@jimmyconnors5685 You hooked me with the early 80’s return to number one.. Beating Lendl twice and winning Wimbledon and the Open in the same year.. I was 9-10 years old.. First time I ever saw someone get red hot with the return and snap off Wimbledon with it.. Agassi repeated it in 92, and that’s about it..
@@jacobjones5269 Thanks for the love and words of encouragement I must say that I have enormous respect for you considering the manner in which I have made contact with you,Your comment gave me goosebumps and I decided to honor you.I’m very glad you’re fan of mine for that I would love to have a private conversation with you if that’s okay with you reach out to me privately via email
Jimmy Connors was an incredible tennis champion. I feel very fortunate that I watched him play in New York (Forest Hills and the National Tennis Center) in the 1970’s and 1980’s. The guy was great for the game. How he won all those tournaments with that small Wilson racket early in his career is a testament to his skill. Compare that equipment with what they use today.
I remember watching the Krickstein match and Jimmy looking into the camera and saying, " McEnroe, back to you in the Booth." The crowd sounded like a football game. Jimmy was on fire!
Connors used the energy of the crowd (and gamesmanship it has to be said) more than any other player so it's not surprising that he won 5 times at the famously raucous US open. His fighting spirit undoubtedly made him a huge box office draw. I remember when he came back from 1-6 1-6 1-4 to beat Penfors at Wimbledon which is one of the greatest comebacks ever.I was at his next match on Court 1. In those days there was a queue for standing room and the line seemed to go on forever. Everyone in the ground were desperate to see his next match
He wasn't always a fan favorite in New York. It wasn't until he won against Borg in '78 when he addressed the crowd and said, "Whether or not you like me, I like you," that he won the fans over. He was a bad boy for years until he became a father. That straightened him out.
He definitely played to the crowd and the television viewers. It is annoying now, but it was so thrilling back then. It just goes to show how times change one's opinion of events.
Connors match against Pernfors at Wimbledon in 1987 was probably the best tennis match I have ever seen. He was 6-1 6-1 4-1 down and came back to win. Crazy game. He came back and played the next evening against zivojinovic and beat him as well. Lost to Cash in the semi who won that year.
wtf does Kyrgios have to do with this? Besides, you couldn't be more a liar if you tried. Connors is in no way "the exact opposite" of Nick Kyrgios. You expose your stupidity making such a claim.
ON SATURDAY AFTERNOONS IN THE 70 ‘S DAD AND LATER I WOULD BE GLUED TO THE T.V. SET TO WATCH MANY OF THE GREATS AND MR. JAMES CONNORS IS NO EXCEPTION !!! OUR AMERICAN 🇺🇸 TENNIS HERO !!!
This heart and passion that Jimmy had is incredible. Just don't see it in U.S. Men's Tennis anymore. I remember watching his run in the U.S. Open and every point was special. I've played tennis all my life and will never forget the Paul Haarhuis lobs and back hand down the line.
Great player who could have won a lot more Grandslams but was banned of the French open for 6 times and played the Australian open only twice (winning it one time and being Runner up).
@@normadesmond6017 Sure Borg was a better clay court player. But Connors could have taken the French open maybe in 1974 or in one of the years Borg didn't participate, by beating Vilas. But he also played the Australian open only twice.
@@marnix6801 He could have, but you can never be certain about these kind of things. You can not see he would have won the French open when he wouldn't have been banned. Vilas could have had the ay of his life and would beaten him? Who knows.
I remember buying the yellow Estusa racket right after this tourney and my friends and I went from using the tennis court for street hockey and got the nets up for tennis! Jimmy's run was special, pure will and determination beating out youth and skill. It did end with Jim Courier who was on his way to dominating tennis for a bit, but what Connors did for tennis that September was magical.
Simply put he was a unreal athlete with a magical personality.....his emotions on the court brought out the fans emotions good and bad.....worth the price of admission and then some.....
I remember seeing on the sports news "Connors vs Courier", and my 11 year old mind had NO CLUE how big of a deal this was. Barely followed tennis back then. Glad I can now fully appreciate it!
Tennis was the best in them days, watched many great players at Wimbledon we would queue up all night and sleep in our home made tents to get tickets for the centre court
@@jamesburke3929 Thanks for the love and words of encouragement I must say that I have enormous respect for you considering the manner in which I have made contact with you,Your comment gave me goosebumps and I decided to honor you.I’m very glad you’re fan of mine for that I would love to have a private conversation with you if that’s okay with you reach out to me privately via email
Thanks for posting this! I was lucky enough to be in the audience that afternoon for the Krickstein match. What an amazing run for Conners. Truly an inspiration.
Possibly the most celebrated, but Tom Watson at the '09 British Open is close- and more impressive in my book. 59 years old, hadn't won a major in almost 30 years, and was a bounce away from winning. But Connors run is legendary, for sure.
