Photo: Julie Jacobson/AP/TT, Bildbyrån
One made himself known as a hot-tempered madman who went above and beyond to win, the other a charming and humble gentleman who was loved by all.
Today, John McEnroe and Henrik Lundqvist are good friends – thanks to a certain common denominator.
After 15 seasons and 887 games for the New York Rangers was forced Henrik Lundqvist42, to retire. The idea was that the goalkeeper, who received the flattering nickname “King Henrik”, would move to the Washington Capitals. But due to a heart defect, his career came to an abrupt end in the summer of 2021.
Since then, Lundqvist has, among other things, done some TV work as an expert, both in Kanal 5 during their Olympic broadcasts in 2022 and for the old club New York Rangers in their own channel. He has also had more time for family life and accompanies his two daughters on their activities.
The relationship with McEnroe
It’s no secret that Henrik Lundqvist is a big music lover. He has absolutely no need to be ashamed of his guitar skills. The fact is that he often performs when the opportunity arises – for example at various charity events.
– It’s still a hobby. I have my charity, we have a few events here and there. We celebrate ten years this year actually in November. Then I will play a little. So you have little events where you stand up and play a little, he says in “P4 Extra – The Guest”.
When performing on stage, Henke is often accompanied by another well-known former athlete. A tennis icon who made himself known not only for his dazzling game but for his gaping jaw and hot temper.
Henrik Lundqvist’s unexpected friendship with the American John McEnroe65, is very much based on the common interest in music. It may very well be that McEnroe appears at the tenth anniversary that Lundqvist is preparing for this fall.
Have played together several times
The duo has played together several times and that is something the former Tre Kronor goalkeeper appreciates.
– We have had a bunch of gigs together. Around charity galas. It’s fun. You can go into a studio. I remember the first time we played together, it was more of a rock show. Then we ran a full band and we rehearsed a couple of times in a studio. You can be there for four or five hours and then it feels like one. You can only have fun and play, says Henke in “P4 Extra – The Guest”.
READ MORE: Mats Sundin sticks his chin out when he points out Henrik Lundqvist – the words give every Swede goosebumps
What kind of music do the icons play then? That it leans towards a specific genre is in any case clear.
– Lots of rock n’ roll. Foo Fighters, Guns n’ Roses. He is a little older, so he likes a little older rock. But singing, John or I don’t usually do that. We usually have other people who can sing, he says.
How exciting! It would definitely be fun to hear these two amazing athletes perform their music together.
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