John McEnroe is threatening to make a tennis comeback at the age of 39. Given the sorry state of the men's game at the moment, the ATP Tour are dying to get him on court more frequently and this week organisers of the Guardian Direct Cup in London have told him that there is a wild-card place if he wants to play. Despite the fact McEnroe has lost the curls and wife, acquired an ear-ring and has huffed about becoming the US Davis Cup captain, he only has to pout and the crowds flock in. The former world number one, who still has his magical touch, has also decided to compete in the Wimbledon championship doubles next year with Steffi Graf in what will be one of the most attractive partnerships to have played on the hallowed grass.

When McEnroe and Graf step on to court it will be an acid test of sorts for the modern game. A veteran male champion and and ageing female champion teaming up to face the young guns. Odds on the partnership will be one of the biggest draws of the championships.