John McEnroe has called for Wimbledon to impose a strict ban on finalists wearing headphones when they walk onto Centre Court. The tennis legend made the plea to All England Club bosses ahead of last year's women's singles final, expressing his displeasure at seeing both Amanda Anisimova and Iga Swiatek wearing headphones before their match.
McEnroe's Criticism of Headphone Use
Speaking during BBC coverage of the 2025 final, McEnroe said: "They shouldn’t allow them to wear airpods or headphones because you have got to get them to enjoy this instead of playing some music. Come on now ladies!" His comments were later mocked by host Clare Balding and fellow commentator Tracy Austin, who reminded McEnroe of his own ban from Wimbledon after he skipped the Champions' Dinner in 1981 to party with a rock band.
McEnroe's History with Wimbledon
McEnroe was denied honorary membership to the All England Club following his 1981 victory after he chose not to attend the annual dinner at the Savoy hotel. He later remarked: "A week later they called my parents to tell me I was not going to be granted membership at the club. Big f***ing deal."
Viewer Backlash Against McEnroe's Commentary
During the 2025 tournament, McEnroe faced criticism from BBC viewers for his commentary. During the quarter-final match between Jan-Lennard Struff and Jannik Sinner, fans complained about his tangents. One viewer said: "@Wimbledon McEnroe on again I've switched it off," while another added: "God does McEnroe ever stop talking about irrelevant nonsense?" A third fumed: "@Wimbledon can you shut John McEnroe & Tracy Austin up please? Their voices are spoiling your coverage."
Wimbledon Men's Final
The Wimbledon men's singles final took place today with live coverage on the BBC beginning from 11am.
