Tennis

ESPN’s McEnroe brothers prepare to take on Bryan twins, Father Time

It will be a battle for the ages – or maybe simply a battle against age – when ESPN’s John and Patrick McEnroe face off against California’s famed Bryan Brothers – Bob and Mike – at the opening match of the BNP Paribas Showdown from New York’s Madison Square Garden on Monday (7 p.m. ET, ESPN3).

John, 55, is considered one of the great doubles players in tennis history. Patrick, 47, also saw success in doubles during his playing career, sometimes paired with his brother. They are tasked with facing the 35-year old twins who have virtually every record of note in doubles. The Bryan brothers have won 94 doubles championships as a team, including 15 Major titles. One pro set of play will determine the winner in this cross-generational duel.

The evening’s nightcap pits two of today’s biggest stars – Novak Djokovic and Andy Murray (9 ET, ESPN2). These two have won six of the last 11 Grand Slam events. At Wimbledon last year, Murray defeated Djokovic to become the first British man in 77 years to take the prestigious title.

The exhibitions are part of the World Tennis Day. Similar events are taking place in London and Hong Kong, plus grass roots efforts and clinics in dozens of countries.

In the video above, hear the McEnroes’ thoughts on the match, their preparation and – as native New Yorkers – what it will be like to play on the Madison Square Garden court.

Video produced by Josh Lander

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