Think Tennis; the one name on everyone’s lips these days is Novak Djokovic. The unbelievable consistency with which he has won and is still winning big tournaments makes one fall short of words, simply indescribably praiseworthy. Then we have the famed Big Three, comprising Djokovic, Nadal and Federer (who had an emotional farewell in 2022), who have completely dominated the world of Tennis like no other era. Going back in history, we had the ABC of Tennis, with Borg and Connors winning multiple Grand Slams, but sadly, our local boy, the A for Amritraj, could not secure one to his name. All players have a dedicated, loyal fan base, and no matter how much we try to be neutral to appreciate the game’s beauty, it is very easy to slip into favouring a particular champion (for me, it has always been Roger Federer). However, there has been one player who brings a smile to everyone’s face every time he steps onto the court. “He makes Tennis so much fun. If you haven’t seen him play or perform yet, it’s a must!” When Federer, the legend himself, throws in a word of applause for you, you know you are talented. We are talking of Mansour Bahrami, the flamboyant Iran-born (adopted son of France) Tennis player. Before we delve deeper, let me show you a video. I promise it will be a better use of time than spending money on all those laughter therapy sessions that you plan to book, for, in Bahrami’s own words, “If the audience laughs, I am the happiest man in the whole world.” 

With many tricks in his arsenal, including crazy no-look, behind-the-back half volleys coupled with between-the-legs shots and underarm serves while holding six balls, it is easy to get tricked into thinking that his childhood would have been as fun. Sadly, born in Iran in 1956, the tumultuous times spearheaded by the country’s political leadership prevented Bahrami from reaching the pinnacle of the sport in his teens and tweens. His significant achievement measured by the yardstick of Grand Slams came in his thirties, reaching an epic French Open doubles finals. Talk about late bloomers, and here you go. He grew up playing with a rusty frying pan, and retrieving balls for the affluent, while watching his father labouring at a sports complex in Tehran. Before he could display his prowess in wielding a real racquet, the religious revolutionary group overtook the reins of the government, only to ban Tennis as anti-Islamic. Any ordinary man would have resigned himself to fate, but not Bahrami, whose love for the game supersedes adversity. He managed to fly away to France (where he had his best results) to make a meagre living playing local tournaments and giving lessons. Currently, an active member of the invitational tournaments for masters, the poster boy of entertainment considers himself to be lucky doing what he likes: playing tennis, having fun, and delighting the audience. 

His autobiography titled The Court Jester: My Story is available on Amazon, which I am currently reading. It is indeed an inspiring read, laced with trademark Bahrami humour. Stay tuned for a detailed review coming your way soon. Until then, keep enjoying Tennis.