John McEnroe has faced backlash after suggesting Emma Raducanu's Wimbledon withdrawal was due to the occasion being 'a little too much' for her. The 18-year-old Briton retired from her fourth-round match against Ajla Tomljanovic on Monday, citing breathing difficulties.
McEnroe, a three-time Wimbledon champion and BBC commentator, drew comparisons with Naomi Osaka, who withdrew from the French Open and Wimbledon citing mental health concerns. 'It appears it just got a little bit too much, as is understandable,' McEnroe said on air.
Tomljanovic, Raducanu's opponent, described McEnroe's comments as 'definitely harsh'. 'I can't imagine being in her shoes at 18 playing a fourth round in your home country,' she said. 'It's something I can't even imagine. For him to say that, it's definitely harsh.'
Medical professionals also criticised McEnroe on social media. Dr Alex George, an A&E doctor, tweeted: 'I didn't realise John McEnroe was medically qualified or that he has X-ray vision!'
Raducanu had been leading 6-4, 3-0 before experiencing stomach cramps and hyperventilating, leading to her retirement. Despite the criticism, McEnroe suggested the experience could benefit her in the long run, saying: 'Maybe it's not a shame this has happened right now when she is 18.'
