In a closely fought encounter McEnroe, 54, showed slightly better fitness to edge his 52-year-old Czech-American rival, now Andy Murray's coach.

Though Lendl demonstrated greater power to hit several aces and counter-attacking baseline winners, McEnroe was able to break serve at 6-4 and held on to his advantage.

McEnroe closed out victory with a trademark serve-volley combo.

Asked how the match compared to his playing career, he joked: "I think this is the biggest one of all.

"It's the match I will always remember."

In the women's match, Agnieszka Radwanska proved too powerful for Caroline Wozniacki, winning 6-4, 6-4.