Why Doesn’t Tennis Get More Love?

The beat goes on -- yet another article about the sorry state of American tennis, and how we have “fallen behind the competition.” (“In Grand Scheme, U.S. Is Called Out in Tennis,” July 5.) Yet another example of the decline of American world dominance!

But perhaps the L.A. Times’ unreflective xenophobia might be balanced by other views about the state of tennis. Consider that the international representation in the latter stages of Wimbledon is actually a good thing for the sport, showing its worldwide appeal. Or contemplate an even more radical view, that it doesn’t matter where a player hails from. Would my enjoyment and appreciation of the skills of Roger Federer, or Rafael Nadal, or Maria Sharapova or Justine Henin-Hardenne, be changed if they were American? Does it matter that Rod Laver was Australian, not American?

As an American tennis fan, I for one am most definitely not “embarrassed by the inability to land anyone in the singles quarterfinals at Wimbledon.” I just want to see great athletes play memorable tennis. It matters not one iota whence they hail.

ROBERT MAY

Irvine

There are Americans left at Wimbledon. They’re top-seeded and they’re from Southern California. It’s too bad that Bob and Mike Bryan don’t get the respect and support they deserve.

EVERETT YEE

San Juan Capistrano

Instead of turning her back, Maria Sharapova should have whacked the streaker on the backside with her racket. No doubt that picture would have made most newspapers throughout the world and endeared her in the hearts of sports fans everywhere.

DOUG OATMAN

Mission Viejo