John McEnroe was recently involved in a controversial incident in Australia, where he was repeatedly badgered by a young fan at the airport for autographs and photos. Australian tennis star Nick Kyrgios and several fans were quick to come out in support of the 66-year-old and defend his privacy from being invaded.

McEnroe has long been considered one of the best tennis players of all time, winning seven Grand Slams during his career. The American legend retired from tennis in 1992 and has since turned his attention to a career in broadcasting. The former world number one, who is part of the Channel 9 team at the Australian Open, recently had a tense conversation with a fan while traveling overseas, who refused to accept an autograph and a photo when asked.

React immediately, Nick Kyrgios Saying he understands “both sides,” he wrote in the comments section of the Instagram video,

“It’s not easy here, being able to understand both sides.”

Other fans also quickly defended themselves John McEnroe:

“To be fair, I think this is harassment,” one tennis fan wrote.

“‘Fans’ lol. This guy is a professional autograph hunter,” another added

“He told the kid no and the kid should listen and back off. He is not public property,” one Instagram user commented.

“I actually think he was overwhelmed and he almost cried. He just needs that guy out of his face!!” added a second.

“Legitimate meltdown,” another fan chimed in.

John McEnroe calls Carlos Alcaraz his favorite player

When John McEnroe transitioned from the tennis court to the dugout, the American quickly earned praise for his keen eye for the game. In a recent interview with El Pais, McEnroe admitted that he is biased against his favorite player, world number one and seven-time Grand Slam champion. Carlos Alcarazmight say in his comment,

“Anyone who has ever heard me commentate on games knows that Carlos is probably my favorite player; his ability on the tennis court is insane, and he’s not even a particularly tall player; maybe half a centimeter taller than me.”

John McEnroe first became famous in the late 1970s. In 1979, the American won his first Grand Slam title at the Tennis Open US Open. He subsequently added six more singles Grand Slam titles to his collection, while winning nine doubles Grand Slam trophies.