ESPN's 30 FOR 30 Airs Jimmy Connors Documentary 'This Is What They Want' Tonight

ESPN Films' Peabody award-winning 30 For 30 film series continues next week with This is What They Want premiering tonight, Oct. 29, at 8 p.m. ET on ESPN. The film focuses on former tennis icon Jimmy Connors' surprising and exciting run during the 1991 US Open in the twilight of his career.

When Jimmy Connors arrived in New York for the 1991 US Open, the one-time tennis superstar was 8 years removed from his last Grand Slam singles title, ranked 174th in the world and approaching his 39th birthday. Not exactly a recipe for success. But on the verge of a quick first-round exit, Connors suddenly and unexpectedly re-captured the magic, embarking on a stirring and extraordinary run than included an Epic Contest with Aaron Krickstein on his way to the semifinals. This is What They Want not only illuminates this highly improbably march past a series of talented and youthful adversaries, it also explores how Connors became a polarizing and provocative personality who helped make tennis a high-octane spectator sport.

This is What They Want is directed by Brian Koppelman and David Levien, who have been writing, directing and producing movies since 1997. Among their films are Rounders, Solitary Man, Oceans Thirteen, The Illusionist, and Runner, Runner. This is What They Want features interviews from former tennis players John and Patrick McEnroe, Mary Carillo, Jim Courier and Aaron Krickstein.

The remaining films of the fall slate will air as follows:

Tuesday, Oct. 29, 8 p.m. - This is What They Want (Directors: Brian Koppelman and David Levien)
Tuesday, Nov. 5, 8 p.m. - Bernie and Ernie (Director: Jason Hehir)

Each 30 For 30 film will be available on iTunes and Amazon Instant Video the day after its broadcast premiere. A six-disc collectible DVD Gift Set, featuring the first fifteen films from 30 For 30 Volume II, will be available at major retailers in-store and online on November 26, 2013.

30 for 30-related updates are available at www.facebook.com/espn30for30 and www.twitter.com/30for30. Fans can join the conversation with hashtag #ThisisWhatTheyWant.

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