JR Moehringer wrote an appealing memoir, The Tender Bar. I loved the first half of the book, but felt the story went on for too long–the last third of the book lost me.
Turns out, Moehringer is the ghostwriter behind the new Andre Agassi book, which might make it worth checking out. Or maybe Moehringer makes Agassi’s story too artful. Haven’t read it so I can’t call it.
Here’s Janet Maslin’s review today in the Times.
And here is an excerpt from the book that was featured in SI. It includes a chilling encounter with Jim Brown.
Nicely-played title, AB.
Jim Brown is fucking awesome. "I'm a United States citizen. I paid my damn taxes, I want my damn rights." That has to be one of the greatest quotes of all time.
goddamn. that excerpt is harrowing. Seems like it's really well-written. I'm not a tennis fan at all, but maybe I'll check that book out of the library someday.
and that video... jeesh, Jim Brown sounds like he's gonna kick TO's ass all over N America. fuuuuck.
I read the SI article and watched the Agassi interview last night. To put it bluntly, get over it Andre. Lots of kids grow up with abusive fathers. And they don't even get to be rich and famous. boo-hoo.
when i was like 14 or so i went to basketball camp at the university of florida. i had to go a day early because of flights or something and i went by myself which was one of the first times i had travelled anywhere by myself. so i got there on the 4th of july and it was kind of dead around and i was sort of scared to venture too far out by myself - and gainseville is one of the most god forsaken places i have ever been. anyway, i watched wimbeldon on tv in my room because that was about the only thing on - and it was the year agassi won. i wasn't really that into tennis but i felt so grateful i had something to occupy myself with and i got into the majors after that and really liked agassi, so i sort of find all of this a little disturbing. he seems to have gotten over some of his issues, but i am really not sure i know what to think about the book.
How is that chilling? It's not only awesome, but should be considered required viewing for all young athletes.
[3] Harrowing..... perfect description.
2,500 balls hit a day?
2,500 balls hit a day?
[6] I agree. It's awesome. What a man Jim Brown is. When you look at guys like Brett Favre who can't quit...sure he can still deliver, but....still. Jim Brown quits at the top of his game and becomes a solid, spokesman for his nation (note: I did not say race). Fantastic interview. Absolutely inspiring.