Maybe Connors Was Putting On Illness

I have yet to read a writer who would nominate Jimmy Connors for an Oscar as a result of his performance against Andre Agassi in the U.S. Open.

But consider the scenario: Connors is being embarrassed by Agassi in the first set. A blowout looks imminent. Suddenly, Connors is nauseated, dizzy and disoriented, which he makes no effort to conceal. He runs over to his wife, Patty, to tell her he does not think he can make it through the match.

Then Agassi becomes tentative, obviously aware of Connors’ plight. And, as Ivan Lendl did against Michael Chang in the French Open when Chang was in trouble, Agassi changes his winning tactics and loses his edge.

In the meantime, a sick and dizzy Connors starts to make incredible shots and his energy seems to be completely restored.

Come on. Is Connors, the living legend, above such a ploy? Anyone capable of the abusive language and gestures of a Jimmy Connors might use any tactics to win.

BILL WILNER, Los Angeles