Youzhny goes nuts, but at least he won the match

Sometimes athletes let their emotions get the best of them. Guys break clubs, bats or knock over water coolers. We love to see players come undone or be strong emotional leaders. Giants QB Eli Manning would disagree. Blasted for years for not being part drill sergeant, part Tony Robbins, Elijah will soon have a brand new ring from Tiffany’s to prove there’s a place for calm and understated.

Eli may need to talk to Russian tennis player Mikhail Youzhny. Until recently, this 25 year old was so obscure that there’s not even a picture of him on ESPN’s tennis website. But Youzhny has gained Youtube cult status.

The other night in Miami, Mikhail lost a point and promptly hit himself in the head 3 CONSECUTIVE TIMES with his graphite racket. Result: A gash down his face that had to be patched up by medical staff on site. He then proceeded to win the match in three sets!
Mikhail-two things: Give John McEnroe, Jimmy Connors and Jeff Tarango a call-they’ll be happy to explain how to properly abuse a racket, linesman, or chair umpire. That’s why they exist on a tennis court. You could become a tennis celebrity like say, Anna Kournikova-NOT good enough to win, but interesting to watch.

Remember fans: Clubs, sticks, rackets and bats are NOT to be used for any study in masochism-self or otherwise. Please use them as intended.