I attended Stanford University a few years after Roscoe Tanner, so I naturally loved all the Stanford stuff in “Second Serve.” Even the dorm names were fun—like Roscoe, I lived in Wilbur Hall, as did John McEnroe after Tanner graduated. Lake Lagunita is where I learned how to sail. Like Roscoe, I also took dates to the Wharf in San Francisco.

I highly recommend Roscoe Tanner's memoir, Second Serve.
On a technical level, the narrative flows clearly and chronologically, providing a firsthand, informative account of the world of professional tennis. I enjoyed the details. For example, the first live televised men's finals from Wimbledon. Very rich stuff!

Additionally, by skillfully, consistently (and vulnerably) weaving heartfelt reflections on all aspects of his life (both personal and professional), Tanner succeeds in making an already interesting account universal.
I was able to connect with his ups, downs, and back up again!
Regarding his five daughters, Tanner writes in his acknowledgements: "I hope that one day we can all gather in one place to share our lives, have a lighthearted time, and be together as a family."
Roscoe Tanner, I hope this for you too!

The family background is limited and appropriate in size. And the tennis section is exceptional if you like the sport. It was a different era at the beginning of the open era. It is interesting that he recognized his career was ending much better than most. And this is where the "bad" Roscoe comes out.

​

Yes, he was a womanizer. But he took it to extremes and now he's supporting many people right as his income is sinking. OK, "I'll catch up but I don't want to stop spending." And now the spiral starts and it's deep with him finally ending up in jail in Europe with no way out. Now, he's close with all his daughters (or is he exaggerating). He's life is in order, working hard, making a living. But, with this much history can he really stay on this path? Time will tell. I wish him well and thanks for a great read.