Last updated by Molly Saxby on Wednesday 13th August 2025

Few rivalries in sport have captured the imagination quite like Bjorn Borg and John McEnroe’s. From the ice-cool Swede to the fiery American, their contrasting personalities, playing styles, and unforgettable matches defined an era of tennis. Between 1978 and 1981, they met 14 times, producing some of the sport’s most iconic encounters — most notably their epic 1980 Wimbledon final.

Why the Borg–McEnroe rivalry still matters

Borg and McEnroe’s duels were more than just matches — they were cultural events. Borg’s calm precision and relentless baseline game met McEnroe’s artistry, serve-and-volley aggression, and infamous on-court outbursts. Their clashes drew global audiences, sparking debates over temperament, sportsmanship, and the future of tennis.

The most memorable Borg v McEnroe matches

The 1980 Wimbledon final – an all-time classic

Widely regarded as one of the greatest matches in tennis history, the 1980 Wimbledon final lasted nearly four hours and included a legendary fourth-set tiebreak, which McEnroe won 18–16. Borg, however, regained control in the fifth set to win 1–6, 7–5, 6–3, 6–7, 8–6, claiming his fifth consecutive Wimbledon title.

The 1981 Wimbledon final – McEnroe’s redemption

A year later, McEnroe had his revenge, defeating Borg in four sets to end the Swede’s Wimbledon reign. It marked Borg’s final appearance at the tournament before his sudden retirement at just 26 years old.

US Open battles – New York drama

Between 1979 and 1981, Borg and McEnroe contested three US Open finals. While Borg never captured the title in New York, their encounters — particularly McEnroe’s gritty 1980 victory — showcased their adaptability on different surfaces.

A royal reunion – Buckingham Palace, 2000

Nearly two decades after their last competitive clash, Borg and McEnroe met again for a special exhibition match in 2000 at Buckingham Palace. Played on a temporary grass court in the palace gardens, it was a friendly encounter that delighted fans and honoured their shared legacy. McEnroe won 6–3, 7–6, in a contest delayed by 25 minutes due to rain late in the second set — a reminder that even in retirement, the elements could still play a part in their story.

The legacy of Borg and McEnroe

The Borg–McEnroe rivalry transformed tennis into must-watch television, helping the sport expand its global appeal in the early 1980s. It also inspired generations of players, from Pete Sampras to Roger Federer, who cited their matches as formative viewing experiences. Their dynamic — ice versus fire — became a benchmark for sporting rivalries across all disciplines.

Reliving classic tennis rivalries today

Fans can revisit Borg and McEnroe’s epic encounters through documentaries, biographies, and archival match footage. The pair have remained ambassadors for the sport, frequently appearing together at legends’ events and charity exhibitions.

From fierce rivals to lifelong friends

What began as one of sport’s most intense rivalries has mellowed into mutual respect and friendship. Today, Borg and McEnroe often share commentary duties, appear at charity matches, and speak warmly of each other’s contributions to the game — proof that even the fiercest battles can forge lasting bonds.

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