French Open 1984: Lendl vs McEnroe

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The 1984 French Open final between Ivan Lendl and John McEnroe is renowned for its thrilling comeback and competitive play. Lendl, who had previously lost four Grand Slam finals, faced McEnroe, who was undefeated in 1984 and held the top ranking. McEnroe dominated the first two sets with his serve-and-volley style, taking them 6-3 and 6-2. However, Lendl's persistence and strategic adjustments allowed him to regain momentum in the third set, capitalizing on McEnroe's frustration and fatigue. Lendl's victory, achieved in five sets (3-6, 2-6, 6-4, 7-5, 7-5), marked his first Grand Slam title. The match highlighted both players' strengths: McEnroe's attacking prowess and Lendl's baseline resilience. Despite McEnroe's initial control, Lendl's superior fitness and mental toughness ultimately decided the outcome. This epic match remains a highlight in tennis history, showcasing the intensity and skill of two tennis legends. The outcome not only marked a turning point in Lendl's career but also left a lasting impact on McEnroe, who considered it his most haunting loss.