Patrick and John McEnroe are two popular names within the tennis fraternity. The McEnroe brothers have left an indelible mark on tennis, especially John, as he influenced a whole generation. He is still one of the most distinguished figures in tennis, which made him the perfect candidate for an exhibition match in Tanzania. However, a slithery surprise awaited them as they took to the court.
The McEnroe brothers are in the African nation for an exhibition tournament. This event is the first of its kind in Tanzania, and the match between the McEnroe brothers was called the “World’s First Serengeti Tennis Match.” The event is set to last for a week in December. The McEnroe brothers are well-known around the world and are currently in the country to promote tennis.
John locked horns with his brother Patrick on December 5, but something unexpected happened during the match. A snake slithered onto the court, interrupting the match between the brothers.
Snake on the court (not sure if venomous or not) during festivities at the John and Patrick McEnroe exhibition match in the Serengeti in Tanzania pic.twitter.com/JXfILADPY9
— Randy Walker (@TennisPublisher) December 5, 2023
John was leading the score against his younger brother when this happened. The authorities were quick to act, as they removed the reptile from the premises.
The locals have been very receptive to the tournament so far. However, the brothers have come under fire from Human Rights Watch.
The conflict with the Human Rights Watch
With the McEnroe brothers facing backlash, fans are curious about it. So what is the reason for this conflict? The Tanzanian government roped in the brothers for the “Epic Tanzania Tour.” However, this tournament is being promoted against a backdrop of profound social unrest.
For years, the Maasai have been locked in strife against the government. The group relies on cattle farming, and the government has increased its efforts to remove them from their lands.
Tennis players John and Patrick McEnroe are set to host a tennis themed safari in Tanzania’s Ngorongoro Conservation Area.
This has been the ancestral home of Indigenous Maasai people for more than 200 years — but they are now facing forced eviction.https://t.co/CFxVrsvAt9 pic.twitter.com/EkE74rLRcf
— Human Rights Watch (@hrw) December 1, 2023
Moreover, the McEnroe brothers and their entourage can access the Ngorongoro crater when the Maasai cannot. Therefore, their participation is being seen as incredibly tone-deaf.
A lot of criticism has been leveled against John and Patrick, especially by indigenous activists. Interestingly, the brothers have taken this step when they have been vocal against sportswashing.
How did the match between Patrick and John McEnroe end?
Despite facing the ire of the human rights watch, Patric and John McEnroe went ahead with the tournament. It was a 10-game pro set, as the brothers played in front of tennis aspirants.
John was leading his brother 7–4 when the snake interruption happened, and then rain stopped it from resuming. The first match on the tour was washed out, and the official result was “Did Not Finish.”
Several government officials and important dignitaries attended this match. “John was funny with his antics of old in his now more humble humorous fashion,” said Lynn Southerly, volunteer president of the Mardy Fish Children’s Foundation (via World Tennis Magazine).
The McEnroe brothers were well-known players. Neither of them has strayed far from tennis, though, since their retirement. John is now the captain of Team World in the Laver Cup and a commentator, whereas Patrick has a podcast.