John McEnroe has been a permanent fixture in the commentary box at this year’s US Open, despite facing calls to quit from disgruntled fans at last year’s event. The US legend was on duty for Carlos Alcaraz’s victory over Jannik Sinner in the 2025 final. It was during that match that some viewers took to social media to demand that the outspoken pundit step down for good.

The American, a seven-time Grand Slam winner, retired in 1992 and has made a huge name for himself as a commentator ever since. McEnroe has earned quite a reputation for shooting from the hip with his remarks. At this year’s tournament, he rubbed some up the wrong way when he called for on-court warm-ups to be abolished. But while some love his enthusiasm and forthright nature, others have been less impressed.

During last year’s final, fans took to social media to share their anger. One wrote: “John McEnroe is irritating af to listen to,” while another asked: “Do either [McEnroe’s younger brother and commentator] Patrick or John McEnroe know how to shut up during a point?”

Another added: “The bias of McEnroe as a commentator makes me turn the volume down,” and another said: “Wish McEnroe would shut up with his chatter and musings and let us watch the tennis game.”

McEnroe clearly didn’t listen to those calls as he’s been front and centre at Flushing Meadows this year. He won’t get the chance to commentate on another Alcaraz final appearance in New York this season, however.

The Spaniard was unable to repeat last year’s heroics as he crashed out of the quarter-finals to American star Ben Shelton on Wednesday. The defending champion lost to Shelton in a match tiebreak, 6-7(5) 6-1 6-3 1-6 7-6(7) after a staggering four hours and 28 minutes.

He finally surrendered in the marathon five-setter at 3.33 am on Wednesday morning, which is the latest finish in tournament history. This year’s US Open was Alcaraz’s first tournament in four and a half months, after a wrist injury curtailed his season and even forced him to miss the French Open and Wimbledon.

Once he had departed the Arthur Ashe Stadium, he chose to focus on the positives rather than stew over his disappointing loss in an emotional social media post. The seven-time Grand Slam champion said: “What a battle Ben!

“You deserve the win, I wish you the best for the rest of the tournament. I leave here happy with my level after such a long injury. Thank you for the energy NYC! Always a very special place!”