John McEnroe scolded BBC commentator Simon Reed for claiming that Jack Draper's dominant performance against Sebastian Baez was "like a practice match". The out-spoken US tennis legend was on co-commentary duty as Draper stormed into a 5-1 first-set lead with a double break.
The British No.1 was then given an opportunity to hit a thunderous forehand winner to move within inches of finishing the first set.
"It's 5-1, a double break and you get that type of opportunity. This is like practice. Proper practice," Reed said.
McEnroe interjected: "I don't think the All England Club will be too happy with you saying this first round match on Court 1 is practice."
The amusing engagement between the BBC personnel ended with Reed clarifying: "You know what I mean."
Wimbledon bosses pride themselves on picking the best matches on the two main showcourts - Centre Court and Court 1.
There was no doubt that Draper, who is the fourth seed here, deserved a spot on one of the main showcourts. And he made a real statement, wrapping up the first set in 28 minutes.
Argentinian Baez has never been beyond the second round of Wimbledon and is ranked No. 38 in the world. But McEnroe feels Draper is a genuine contender for the title and last month tipped the 23-year-old to win multiple Slams.
"I tell you one thing, he won a lot of fans tonight with the way he played and the way he acted and the way he handled the whole situation," McEnroe said at the French Open.
"It's one of those matches that you're proud to be a tennis player. You look back at these two guys digging that deep, you're looking at a guy 38 years old that is still moving unbelievably well, and you see Jack Draper maturing, playing better and better on the spot.
"I mean, I'll be surprised if he doesn't win multiple majors. It is incredible how much he's improving and how great a player he's become."
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