Just curious how many have seen this guy play other than in the MC? He's been known to show-his-ass more than a few times. I think he has one of THE worst attitudes i've seen in pool in a while, up there with that other a-hole Dechaine. As for McEnroe? He's still a spoiled Long Island douche. Royalty? Gimme a break.
I for one can say I've seen him in person several times. He has been much, much, much, much, much, much.....oh yeah, did I say much worse??... than what he showed at the cup this year.
Have most other players done the same?... sure but not on a regular basis the way the select few have done and keep doing.
I've said it before, there are way to many strong players today to "have to" put up with "anyone" unless his/her game is worth it.
Worth it, that's the rub for most. To most, well, he is not worth it. Anyone that disagrees, go to "any room" and ask aloud and you will find that most say, "he's a great player but...". It's that "BUT" that does and will continue to hurt his rep with serious players like myself.
Sure, the less serious masses do and will continue to love him for the same reason they loved the wrestler Rick Flare (spelling??) and a lot other pro like Hulk H. etc...etc..
Maybe "if" his game gets to the point where it overshadows his actions he will get the respect that Earl got/gets eventhough his actions was not much better in his youth and are even worse today..... but keep in mind, Earl "The Pearl" Strickland will be remembered as well as "ANY" other pro to ever hold a cue in their hands. Shaw is not in that category IMHO. Will he ever be? I truly hope so. Time will tell.
One last thing:
Social media!!!
I, like a lot of folks witnessed Earl being a huge jerk in his prime but his game was even bigger. Just couldn't help but overlook it in person. If those same situations had been online to the masses like today, would he still have been so popular with the "serious" and more "knowledgeable" players???... who knows.