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The Untold Story Of John McEnroe’s Two Wives: Rock Star Patty Smyth And Oscar Winner Tatum O’Neal

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John McEnroe, the "SuperBrat" of tennis, has always lived a life as dramatic off the court as his legendary tantrums were on it, especially concerning his high-profile relationships. As of late 2025, the tennis icon remains happily married to his second wife, rock singer Patty Smyth, a union that has lasted over two and a half decades and created a sprawling, successful blended family. Yet, recent headlines continue to pull focus back to his tumultuous first marriage with Academy Award-winning actress Tatum O’Neal, particularly as their adult children navigate their own milestones. The enduring curiosity surrounding McEnroe's personal life stems from the stark contrast between his two wives: one a fellow New York-born artist who found stability with the tennis star, and the other a Hollywood child star whose relationship ended in a highly publicized and painful custody battle. This article dives deep into the lives of both women, revealing the latest updates, their unique careers, and the complex family they all share.

The Complete Biography and Family Profile of John McEnroe’s Wives

The life of the seven-time Grand Slam singles champion has been intertwined with two formidable women, each a successful artist in her own right. Here is a detailed look at the two most important figures in John McEnroe’s personal life.

Patty Smyth (Current Wife)

  • Full Name: Patricia Smyth
  • Date of Birth: June 26, 1957
  • Place of Birth: New York City, New York, USA
  • Profession: Singer, Songwriter, Musician
  • Key Career Highlights: Frontwoman of the rock band Scandal; Solo hits include "Sometimes Love Just Ain't Enough" (a duet with Don Henley) and "The Warrior."
  • Marriage to McEnroe: Married in 1997 (began dating in 1993)
  • Children with McEnroe: Anna McEnroe and Ava McEnroe
  • Previous Marriage: Richard Hell (1985–1986); Daughter Ruby Smyth

Tatum O’Neal (Ex-Wife)

  • Full Name: Tatum Beatrice O’Neal
  • Date of Birth: November 5, 1963
  • Place of Birth: Los Angeles, California, USA
  • Profession: Actress, Author
  • Key Career Highlights: Youngest person ever to win a competitive Academy Award (Best Supporting Actress for *Paper Moon* at age 10); Starred in *The Bad News Bears*.
  • Marriage to McEnroe: Married in 1986; Divorced in 1994
  • Children with McEnroe: Kevin McEnroe, Sean McEnroe, and Emily McEnroe
  • Recent Updates: Has been open about her recovery following a severe 2020 stroke.

Patty Smyth: The Rock Star Who Brought Stability to the Tennis Legend

Patty Smyth and John McEnroe’s relationship is often cited as a testament to second chances, a stable haven following the turbulence of their respective first marriages. They met in 1993 and married in 1997, forging a decades-long partnership that has proven to be the anchor in McEnroe's post-tennis life. The key to their longevity, according to recent interviews, lies in their shared understanding and "golden rules." Smyth, known for her powerful vocals with the band Scandal, stepped back from her music career to focus on their growing blended family, a decision she humorously described as "literally drowning in kids!"

The Power of "The Warrior" and Family Life

Patty Smyth’s career is defined by anthems like "The Warrior," which became an 80s rock staple, and the emotionally resonant duet with Don Henley, "Sometimes Love Just Ain’t Enough." Despite her success, the couple prioritized a life away from the relentless spotlight that had plagued McEnroe’s earlier years. They share two daughters, Anna and Ava, and McEnroe became a loving stepfather to Smyth's daughter, Ruby. The couple's stability is often attributed to having a "dealbreaker" in their relationship—a mutual commitment to their family and privacy, which they have fiercely protected.

Tatum O’Neal: The Dramatic First Chapter and Recent Reconciliation

John McEnroe’s first wife, Tatum O’Neal, was a celebrity from birth, the daughter of actor Ryan O’Neal and a global star after her historic Oscar win for *Paper Moon*. Their marriage from 1986 to 1994 was a whirlwind of Hollywood and professional tennis, but it was fraught with personal struggles, ultimately leading to a difficult divorce. The most painful chapter of their separation was the custody battle for their three children—sons Kevin and Sean, and daughter Emily—which resulted in McEnroe gaining full custody in 1994. O’Neal has since spoken candidly about the anger she harbored towards McEnroe following the divorce and her struggles with addiction that contributed to the custody loss.

A New Era of Co-Parenting and Adult Children

In a heartwarming display of family healing, recent news highlights a significant shift in the relationship between McEnroe and O’Neal. Tatum O’Neal revealed in a recent interview that she and McEnroe would be reunited at their son Kevin McEnroe’s wedding, a major family event. This public reunion signifies a new, more peaceful chapter in their co-parenting relationship. Furthermore, O’Neal has been vocal in her support for their daughter, Emily McEnroe, who is pursuing a career in music and recently impressed her mother with a performance of a Bob Dylan hit in an Irish pub. Their son, Sean McEnroe, is a photographer and artist, and the children often speak out about their unique experience growing up with a tennis legend and an Oscar-winner.

The Enduring Legacy of John McEnroe’s Blended Family

The story of John McEnroe’s wives is not just about two different marriages, but about the creation of a large, supportive blended family of six successful adult children: Kevin, Sean, Emily, Ruby, Anna, and Ava. McEnroe, who has enjoyed a successful second career as a tennis commentator and sports analyst, has often reflected on the challenges of raising such a large, disparate family. He has openly discussed his decision to push his children away from professional tennis, encouraging them to forge their own paths, which they have all successfully done across the fields of music, art, and acting. The combined narrative of Patty Smyth’s stability and Tatum O’Neal’s ongoing recovery and reconciliation paints a picture of a complex but ultimately resilient family. It’s a powerful reminder that even for a global celebrity like the tennis legend, the journey to personal peace and a successful family life is often as challenging and dramatic as any Grand Slam final. The latest updates show a family not defined by past conflicts, but united by their shared history and their children's future.
tennis john mcenroe wife
tennis john mcenroe wife

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