John McEnroe's Love Life: Who Is The Tennis Legend Married To?

John McEnroe, a name synonymous with unparalleled talent, fiery passion, and a legendary career in tennis, has captivated audiences for decades. Beyond his incredible achievements on the court, fans often wonder about the personal life of this iconic figure, particularly: who is John McEnroe married to? His journey through marriage has been as eventful and public as his professional life, marked by two significant relationships that have shaped his family and personal narrative.

From a high-profile union with a Hollywood actress to a more private, enduring partnership with a rock musician, McEnroe's marital history offers a fascinating glimpse into the life of a sports icon navigating the complexities of love, family, and fame. This article delves deep into his relationships, divorces, and the current status of his family life, providing a comprehensive overview of the woman who stands by the tennis legend today.

John McEnroe: A Glimpse into the Legend's Life

Before diving into his personal relationships, it's essential to understand the man himself. John McEnroe, born on February 16, 1959, is an American former professional tennis player who redefined the sport with his aggressive serve-and-volley game and famously volatile on-court personality. He was ranked as the world No. 1 in men's singles by the Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP) for an impressive 170 weeks, a testament to his dominance. His career was marked by numerous championships, including seven Grand Slam singles titles.

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Known for his intense rivalries, particularly with Björn Borg and Jimmy Connors, McEnroe's charisma and controversial outbursts made him a compelling figure both on and off the court. While his professional achievements are well-documented, his personal life, especially his marriages, has also drawn significant public interest. Understanding his journey requires looking at the pivotal relationships that have shaped his life beyond the tennis court.

Personal Data & Career Highlights

The First Chapter: John McEnroe's Marriage to Tatum O'Neal

John McEnroe's first marriage was to actress Tatum O'Neal, a prominent figure in Hollywood and the youngest person ever to win an Academy Award for competitive acting. Their relationship was a high-profile affair, bringing together two vastly different worlds: the intense competitive arena of professional tennis and the glamorous, often tumultuous, world of entertainment. They tied the knot on August 1, 1986, a union that garnered significant media attention.

During their marriage, John McEnroe and Tatum O'Neal welcomed three children: two sons, Kevin and Sean, and a daughter, Emily. Their family life, however, was not without its challenges. The couple eventually parted ways in 1994, leading to a highly publicized divorce. The aftermath of their separation was particularly difficult, as it involved a contentious custody battle for their children. In 1998, McEnroe was awarded sole custody of Kevin, Sean, and Emily due to O'Neal's well-documented struggles with drug issues. This period was a significant turning point in McEnroe's personal life, highlighting his commitment to his children amidst personal turmoil.

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A New Beginning: John McEnroe Meets Patty Smyth

Life has a way of surprising us, and for John McEnroe, a new chapter began unexpectedly. When John McEnroe met singer/songwriter Patty Smyth at a Christmas party in 1993, neither of them was actively looking for love. At that time, the former world number one tennis player was still legally married to his first wife, actress Tatum O'Neal, although their separation was imminent. Patty Smyth, a celebrated musician known for her work with the rock band Scandal, also had her own life and career firmly established. She shared in a 2020 magazine interview that she had given up on the idea of getting married at the time, explaining, "I had a great life. I thought I might adopt a child because I only [had one daughter already]."

Their initial encounter was casual, a simple meeting at a festive gathering. However, what started as an informal introduction soon blossomed into something more profound. Approximately eight months after that Christmas party, in 1994, John McEnroe and Patty Smyth began dating. This marked the beginning of a relationship that would eventually lead to a lasting partnership, providing stability and happiness for the tennis legend after a period of personal upheaval.

Patty Smyth: The Woman Behind the Legend

The woman who is John McEnroe married to today is Patty Smyth, a highly respected American singer and songwriter. Born in New York in 1957, Smyth rose to prominence in the 1980s as the lead singer of the rock band Scandal. With hits like "Goodbye to You" and "The Warrior," she became a recognizable voice in the music industry, known for her powerful vocals and energetic stage presence. Her career continued as a solo artist, demonstrating her enduring talent and songwriting prowess.

Patty Smyth's life before John McEnroe was rich with personal and professional experiences. She had a daughter from a previous relationship, adding to the complexities and joys of forming a blended family with McEnroe. Her perspective on marriage and relationships, as she shared, was one of contentment with her independent life. Yet, fate brought her and McEnroe together, leading to a partnership that has now spanned decades. Her resilience, artistic spirit, and grounded nature have been key elements in their successful union. In 2020, Smyth released "It's About Time," her first studio album in 28 years, a testament to her continued artistic output. On this album, and in interviews surrounding its release, Patty Smyth and John McEnroe have openly discussed aspects of their relationship, including "sex, love, and rock 'n' roll," offering a candid look into their lives together.

John McEnroe and Patty Smyth: A Lasting Union

The relationship between John McEnroe and Patty Smyth solidified into marriage in 1997, marking a significant milestone in both their lives. They have been happily married ever since, building a life together that is notably more low-profile compared to McEnroe's first marriage. For many, the fact that John McEnroe and Patty Smyth have been married since 1997 might even come as a surprise, given their relatively private approach to their shared life, especially when compared to other high-profile athlete-musician couples.

Their union created a blended family, combining children from their previous relationships with those they welcomed together. This commitment to family, coupled with a shared understanding and mutual respect, has been a cornerstone of their enduring marriage. They have navigated the challenges of public life and personal demands, maintaining a strong bond that has stood the test of time.

Their Blended Family: Children of John McEnroe and Patty Smyth

The family unit of John McEnroe and Patty Smyth is a vibrant blended one, encompassing children from their previous marriages and two daughters they share. John McEnroe is the father of five biological children and a stepfather to one:

• From his first marriage to Tatum O'Neal:
  • Kevin McEnroe: Born in 1986, Kevin is John's oldest son and an enthusiastic writer. He has pursued a career in writing and is a published author.
  • Sean McEnroe: Born in 1987, Sean has largely maintained a private profile, though he has been involved in art.
  • Emily McEnroe: Born in 1991, Emily has ventured into acting, following in her mother's footsteps.
• From his marriage to Patty Smyth:
  • Anna McEnroe: Born in 1995, Anna is the first child of John and Patty.
  • Ava McEnroe: Born in 1999, Ava is their second daughter. Both Anna and Ava are pursuing various careers, with interests spanning art and law.
• From Patty Smyth's first marriage:
  • Patty Smyth also has a daughter from a previous relationship, making her John McEnroe's stepdaughter, further enriching their blended family dynamic.

This diverse group of children, now adults, are pursuing various careers in writing, art, acting, and law, reflecting a wide range of talents and interests inherited from their accomplished parents.

The McEnroe Children: Forging Their Own Paths

The children of John McEnroe have grown up under the spotlight of their famous parents, yet each has carved out their own unique path. As mentioned, Kevin, Sean, and Emily, from John's marriage to Tatum O'Neal, and Anna and Ava, from his marriage to Patty Smyth, are all pursuing diverse interests and careers. This speaks volumes about the environment in which they were raised, one that encouraged individuality and personal growth.

Kevin McEnroe, in particular, has made headlines recently with his personal milestones. As a published author, he has established his own identity beyond being "John McEnroe's son." His journey exemplifies the children's efforts to forge their own legacies.

Kevin McEnroe's Recent Wedding: A Family Affair

A recent joyful event in the McEnroe family was the wedding of Kevin McEnroe to his girlfriend, Fern Cozine. The couple got engaged in November 2023, and almost two years later, they exchanged vows in an intimate ceremony in Napa Valley, California, on June 14, 2025. This significant life event for Kevin brought together members of the extended McEnroe family, including John McEnroe himself.

People magazine shared exclusive photos from the wedding, offering a rare glimpse into the private celebration. In the pictures, John McEnroe was seen dressed in a white shirt, layered with a blazer, looking proud and happy for his eldest son. The wedding of Kevin McEnroe and Fern Cozine underscores the ongoing narrative of family life for the tennis legend, showing that even as his children grow and start their own families, the bonds remain strong.

Navigating Public Life and Privacy

One of the striking aspects of John McEnroe's second marriage, especially compared to his first, is its relatively low profile. While his marriage to Tatum O'Neal was constantly under public scrutiny, his union with Patty Smyth has largely remained out of the intense media glare. This intentional choice for privacy has allowed them to build a stable and harmonious family life away from the constant demands of celebrity. It highlights a conscious effort to prioritize personal well-being over public spectacle.

This approach has likely contributed to the longevity and happiness of their marriage. By not constantly being in the headlines, John McEnroe and Patty Smyth have cultivated a sense of normalcy, despite their individual fame. This balance between public recognition and private life is a testament to their maturity and shared values, allowing them to focus on their family and individual pursuits without undue external pressure.

The Enduring Legacy of John McEnroe's Marriages

In conclusion, when considering "who is John McEnroe married to," the answer is Patty Smyth, and their marriage stands as a testament to enduring love and a successful blended family. From the high-profile and tumultuous first marriage to Tatum O'Neal, which produced three children, to the more private and stable union with Patty Smyth, resulting in two more daughters and a loving stepdaughter, McEnroe's personal journey has been as compelling as his professional one. His commitment to his children, evident in the custody battle for his first three kids and the nurturing of his blended family, showcases a deep sense of paternal responsibility.

John McEnroe's relationships have evolved, reflecting personal growth and a desire for stability. His marriage to Patty Smyth since 1997 underscores a partnership built on mutual respect and shared values, providing a solid foundation for their family. This article has aimed to provide a comprehensive and trustworthy account of his marital life, drawing on established facts to illuminate the personal side of a tennis legend. We hope this deep dive into John McEnroe's relationships has provided valuable insight into the man behind the legendary serve and volley. Do you have any thoughts on John McEnroe's enduring legacy, both on and off the court? Share your comments below, or explore more articles on the lives of sports icons on our site!