Ivan Lendl hits the links

Fairfield, Conn. (WTNH) - Tennis great Ivan Lendl is taking part in the Connecticut Open at the Country Club of Fairfield this week.

The 8 time Grand Slam champ has always enjoyed golf, even when he was on the tennis circuit.

"It's a lot of fun to compete, play shots when it matters, I just enjoy that," Lendl said.

Lendl says his experiences on the tennis court help with his golf game.

"You can take focus, concentration and determination, the biggest challenge is in skill," he said.

Lendl may not hit the 9 iron like he does the forehand, and his serve is bigger than his drive, but he's still a pretty good golfer. He's six over par after two rounds in the Connecticut Open.

"I just didn't hit it that well. I wouldn't say I was frustrated. Somedays you hit it better than others," he said.

Replacing divots, raking bunkers, helping playing partners find their ball is all part of another round for Lendl.

"You are supposed to rake bunkers and also I have had a lot of practice looking for my own balls so I try to help out," he said.

Lendl plays golf as often as he can, and tennis is still a big part of his life.

"I enjoy tennis a lot, maybe people didn't realize it, but I enjoy this as well. I just enjoy competing, it doesn't matter what sport it is," he said.