During a recent episode of the Never Settle Podcast, Jimmie Johnson shared a vivid memory of playing tennis against former professional Andy Roddick. He described how, despite Roddick not having played in some time, his powerful serves visibly altered the shape of the tennis ball during their match a few years earlier, leaving a strong impression on Johnson. This remarkable moment highlighted Roddick’s enduring tennis ability, even years after his retirement.
Andy Roddick, once ranked World No. 1, is a retired American tennis professional celebrated for winning 32 ATP singles titles, including a Grand Slam singles championship at the 2003 US Open. Beyond this, he secured five ATP Masters 1000 titles and reached multiple Grand Slam finals, notably at Wimbledon in 2004, 2005, and 2009, as well as the 2006 US Open, where he was ultimately bested by Roger Federer on each final occasion.
Memories of Roddick’s Power and Skill Despite Time Away from Tennis
Johnson recounted that although Roddick was in what he termed “advanced age” and had not been actively playing, the former tennis star still demonstrated extraordinary power during their casual match. Roddick’s volleys consistently found the corners of the court with unexpected force, underscoring his natural talent. Johnson and Roddick were joined by co-host Marty Smith on the podcast when the story was told.
Johnson recalled the experience, saying:
“He hadn’t picked up a racket in a long time. And so, you know, with his advanced age, I didn’t want him to hurt his shoulder. You know, we would go two or three volleys, and then he would just like slam one in a corner. And I’m like, okay, I see what’s going on here. So as it goes on, eventually, we’re getting ready to leave, and he goes, go stand over there.” —Jimmie Johnson, Never Settle Podcast
He went on to describe Roddick’s powerful serving that caught him off guard, including a particular serve that stretched the ball visibly and landed in the corner, beyond Johnson’s reach, followed by a strategic placement that left him unable to return it:
“So I stand, and he’s going to serve. I’m like, hell yeah. Smokes this thing, and I swear, you know, it’s stretched out. I just remember seeing this blob, that stretched neon blob hit the corner, and I’m trying to get to it, and I can’t. So finally, I get better position, and he hits some like cute turning shot that hits the other corner that I’ve just walked away from,” Jimmie Johnson added. —Jimmie Johnson, Never Settle Podcast
Jimmie Johnson’s Legacy and Continued Influence in Motorsports
Jimmie Johnson is widely regarded as one of the greatest figures in motorsports history, with an impressive record that includes seven NASCAR Cup Series championships. Between 2006 and 2010, Johnson won five consecutive titles, tying the record set by legends Richard Petty and Dale Earnhardt. His impact on NASCAR is profound, with his driving skills and championship successes setting a high standard in the sport.
Jimmie Johnson Voices Concerns About NASCAR’s NextGen Car Performance
Aside from his reflections on tennis, Johnson has recently spoken out critically about NASCAR’s NextGen (Gen-7) car. During an interview on Kevin Harvick’s Happy Hour podcast, Johnson expressed dissatisfaction with the car’s current handling features, particularly its insufficient side force and yaw. These physical characteristics are crucial for drivers to experience dynamic and engaging racing, which he believes the car currently lacks.
Johnson explained that the NextGen car’s low-profile tires, which have reduced sidewall height, limit the amount of feedback drivers receive through the wheel, making it more difficult to slide the car and maintain precise control during races. He stated:
“I would like to see some changes. You know, I think a car that gains side force and yaw is a better car, one that drives better, more interesting, puts on a better show. This car does not do that. But to make those changes in the way you’ll have to, all three OEMs have to submit wind tunnel time, all the expenses that go with it, I know it’s a slow-moving machine.” —Jimmie Johnson, Kevin Harvick’s Happy Hour Podcast
He further addressed the tire design issue:
“The other thing that I would like to consider is a taller sidewall on the cars. the lower profile sidewall I think takes a lot of the feel out of it and being able to slide it and understand it,” he added. —Jimmie Johnson, Kevin Harvick’s Happy Hour Podcast
Johnson emphasized that implementing these changes would require collaborative efforts among all three automotive manufacturers involved in NASCAR—Chevrolet, Ford, and Toyota—and acknowledged the complexity and cost associated with such adjustments.
Significance of Johnson’s Reflections in Sports and Racing
Jimmie Johnson’s recall of his tennis match against Andy Roddick offers a unique glimpse into the athletic prowess that transcends sports disciplines, showcasing the former tennis pro’s lasting power despite time away from competition. Meanwhile, Johnson’s candid criticism of NASCAR’s NextGen vehicle raises important questions about the direction of stock car racing technology and how it affects driver experience and spectator excitement. Going forward, these insights from a seven-time NASCAR champion will likely contribute to ongoing conversations about improving racing performance and preserving athlete legacies both on and off the track.
