dropshot

Introducing dropshot, a new podcast series looking at the rising stars of tennis. The full series is served weekly from 2 April 2019. Follow us on Instagram and Twitter @ThisIsDropshot dropshot is a HWY61 production For more information, visit us at: www.ThisIsDropshot.com www.hwy61.media

The dropshot journey starts in Milan as Garry Hayes and Ceri Levy go behind the scenes at the Next Gen Finals. Garry introduces Ceri to the finer arts of covering a major sporting event, helping him negotiate press conferences and interviews with some leading stars. The drama hits fever pitch on court as the players, including Stefanos Tsitsipas, complain about the stress of having to collect their own towels during matches. Yes, it was Towelgate... Follow us on Instgram and Twitter @ThisIsDropshot dropshot is a HWY61 production For more information, visit us at: www.ThisIsDropshot.com www.hwy61.media Email: info@thisisdropshot.com 

After finding their feet at the Next Gen Finals in Milan, Garry and Ceri take a closer look at the rising talents of tennis. In this episode they speak with Frances Tiafoe and Liam Caruana, digging into the latter's Italian-American heritage. David Nainkin, coach to Taylor Fritz, gives his insight to the challenges of nurturing a developing talent. Garry and Ceri also hear from John McEnroe and John Isner about the hopes of these young Americans. Follow us on Instgram and Twitter @ThisIsDropshot dropshot is a HWY61 production For more information, visit us at: www.ThisIsDropshot.com www.hwy61.media Email: info@thisisdropshot.com 

After last week's US-focused episode, Garry and Ceri take the dropshot story back east across the Atlantic with a closer look at the emerging tennis talent in Europe. Ceri conducts his first walk and talk interview with Andrey Rublev, who discusses training with Rafa Nadal while still only a teenager. We also hear from Dominic Thiem on the changing demographic of the ATP's top 100. Away from the tennis, Ceri gets himself confused about why Garry has grown a beard... Follow us on Instagram and Twitter @ThisIsDropshot dropshot is a HWY61 production For more information, visit us at: www.ThisIsDropshot.com www.hwy61.media Email: info@thisisdropshot.com

When Ceri met Alex De Minaur at the 2018 Surbiton Trophy it was, well, love at first sight. Their eyes locked across court, Alex served an ace and won his match as Ceri watched on, reveling in his talents. They lived happily ever after... OK, not quite. De Minaur would win his match, though, and so started Ceri's fascination with one of tennis' rising stars, following him across the grasscourt season and beyond. In this episode, Garry and Ceri relive the journey from Surbiton to the Next Gen Finals, speaking with De Minaur and his agent David Drysdale about his development. Follow us on Instgram and Twitter @ThisIsDropshot dropshot is a HWY61 production For more information, visit us at: www.ThisIsDropshot.com www.hwy61.media Email: info@thisisdropshot.com

We've heard all about Ceri's affections for Alex De Minaur. Well, in Chapter 5 of dropshot, Garry gets his chance to delve a little deeper into why Stefanos Tsitsipas is his tennis crush. From witnessing the Greek's bounce - the Tsitsipas Bounce - throughout the Next Gen finals in Milan, Garry and Ceri look at the bigger picture and how Tsitsipas is proving himself to be equally talented away from the court. Follow us on Instgram and Twitter @ThisIsDropshot dropshot is a HWY61 production For more information, visit us at: www.ThisIsDropshot.com www.hwy61.media Email: info@thisisdropshot.com

dropshot is back from our mid-season break! In this episode, Garry and Ceri cast the net a bit wider than the Next Gen players from Milan, turning their focus to the leader of tennis' rising stars, Alex Zverev. We hear from Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic, Zverev himself, plus a host of journalists with their views on what the future holds. Garry also turns the clock back to when he met Denis Shapovalov at Queen's in 2017, fresh from victory over home favourite Kyle Edmund. Follow us on Instgram and Twitter @ThisIsDropshot dropshot is a HWY61 production For more information, visit us at: www.ThisIsDropshot.com www.hwy61.media Email: info@thisisdropshot.com

On the dawn of the French Open, tennis' Next Gen continue to leave their mark on the tour. Throughout this series, we've heard from the likes of Stefanos Tsitsipas, Alex De Minaur and Alex Zverev, who have all progressed in 2019. But what are the challenges beyond these early signs of promise? In this episode Garry and Ceri spend time with some former players, asking that very question. Tim Henman, Mark Philippoussis, Thomas Enqvist and Tommy Haas all give their views, looking back at their own experiences as young players. Follow us on Instagram and Twitter @ThisIsDropshot dropshot is a HWY61 production For more information, visit us at: www.ThisIsDropshot.com www.hwy61.media Email: info@thisisdropshot.com

In the first of three bonus episodes, dropshot brings you our conversation with respected Italian journalist Ubaldo Scanagatta. Ubaldo has covered over 145 Grand Slams in a career that stretches across five decades. In that time he has seen John McEnroe blossom from a promising youngster into a dominant force in tennis. He has even helped influence careers, giving a platform to a young Ivan Lendl... unintentionally at the expense of a friend! Ubaldo's one of the best characters on tour and has a vast array of anecdotes from his time working in tennis. Ubaldo, we salute you! Follow us on Instagram and Twitter @ThisIsDropshot dropshot is a HWY61 production For more information, visit us at: www.ThisIsDropshot.com www.hwy61.media Email: info@thisisdropshot.com

In our second bonus episode from dropshot one, we bring you the full interview with David Nainkin, coach of Taylor Fritz. Garry and Ceri sat down with David at the Next Gen Finals in Milan to discuss how he's nurturing the talents of an up and coming tennis player and what challenges they face together. Parts of this interview first featured in Chapter 2: The American Dream. So if you haven't listened yet, go back and hear about the next group of Americans looking to emulate their country's former heroes. Follow us on Instagram and Twitter @ThisIsDropshot dropshot is a HWY61 production For more information, visit us at: www.ThisIsDropshot.com www.hwy61.media Email: info@thisisdropshot.com

In the third and final bonus episode from dropshot one, Ceri sits down with Alex De Minaur's agent, David Drysdale. David has a storied history in tennis, helping shape the career of Lleyton Hewitt, who was world No. 1 by the age of just 20. Now he's planning on taking De Minaur, another Australian, all the way to the top. David explains the process and challenge of managing an emerging talent in this interview.   Follow us on Instagram and Twitter @ThisIsDropshot dropshot is a HWY61 production For more information, visit us at: www.ThisIsDropshot.com www.hwy61.media Email: info@thisisdropshot.com

After a two-year hiatus, a global pandemic and a host other road blocks, dropshot is returning with a groundbreaking narrative tennis series. Join Ceri Levy and Garry Hayes as they take a roadtrip across the UK to the heart of British grasscourt tennis. Along the way Ceri learns how to be a sports journalist, speaking with stars of the game including Naomi Osaka, Ash Barty, Kyle Edmund and many, many more. It's been two years in the making... but dropshot 2 is well worth the wait as we visit the major grasscourt events and get exclusive behind-the-scenes access in the build-up to Wimbledon. Love tennis? Love dropshot. Episodes will start dropping from Monday 12 April.

Documentary film maker and environmental writer, Ceri Levy, discovers if he has what it takes to be a sports journalist under the tutelage of Garry Hayes, an experienced journalist and now podcast mogul. It all takes place in the unique atmosphere of a forgotten grass court summer in the UK. In this first episode set at the Surbiton Trophy they meet with Jay Clarke, James Ward and Paul Jubb and his coach, Jonny Carmichael. The scene is set, the die is cast and Ceri and Garry are back on the tennis trail. Dropshot returns! Featured in this episode: Jay Clarke, James Ward and Paul Jubb.

Rain stops play but Ceri and Garry get a surprise when Jay Clarke and his coach and brother Curt Clarke, invite them to the National Tennis Centre, to see what goes into a training session. And a further surprise awaits them as his hitting partner for the day turns out to be none other than Frances Tiafoe, the American star. A unique experience ensues. Featured in this episode: Jay Clarke and Frances Tiafoe.

Surbiton's rain may have gone away but Garry has disappeared too! Ceri is all alone on a busy morning which saw the women's tournament get under way. Conversations involved an encounter with Dropshot favourite, Alex de Minaur, and fellow Australian Matt Reid; Heather Watson chats engagingly with Ceri; Alison van Uytvanck talks from the gym; American Caty McNally, reveals the breakfast she shouldn't have had and describes the mentality needed to cope with the tour and Dan Evans reveals his thoughts on young players. Phew!! It's a busy old morning! Featured in this episode: Alex de Minaur, Matt Reid, Heather Watson, Alison van Uytvanck, Caty McNally and Dan Evans.

Nottingham!   Featured in this episode: Magdalena Rybarikova, Katy Dunne, Alison Riske, Nick Kyrgios.

In Nottingham, rain yet again totals a day's play but luckily Ceri and Garry have the opportunity to make the short trip to Derby to watch Jay Clarke being put through various routines with his coaching and fitness team. The effort put in is gruelling but this is what it takes to be a professional athlete. Simon Brundish, the fitness guy, talks through all things physical and Ceri is shocked to find that we have three hamstrings and Garry only wants to talk glutes and calves.    Featured in this episode: Jay Clarke

A deluge of rain stops all play all day. The weather also keeps Garry away from Nottingham. Meanwhile Ceri takes the opportunity to chat with Curt Clarke, Jay Clarke's brother and coach. He learns more about the supportive Clarke family unit and the power of acceptance of situations. When finally the difficult decision is taken to play matches indoors away from the fans,  Ceri gets the chance to chat again with Paul Jubb, watches Jay Clarke retire with an injury and late into the night witnesses Jack Draper win his first match at this level. Before turning the lights out at the venue, Ceri and Jack discuss this momentous occasion.   Featured in this episode: Paul Jubb, Jack Draper

Ceri's journey into tennis reporting started at the Monte Carlo Masters and here he looks back at the first press conference he took part in from that tournament, which happened to be with Novak Djokovic. Ceri breaks down how press conferences work and how the media dig for information that suits their needs. This event took place after Djokovic had recovered from an injury and there were question marks over his ability to come back and reclaim a place at the top table. Cut to the present day and he's won just about every tournament going! This is a fascinating look at the relationship between athlete and journalist.   Featured in this episode: Novak Djokovic

Garry manages to be incredibly late but just in time for the interviews to begin. Typical behaviour, while Ceri soldiers on in the vortex of matches being played indoors. No fans, no atmosphere but still serious tennis goes on. Curt Clarke has news on brother Jay's injury from the previous evening and Garry disappears earlier than expected and Ceri is awash with interviews, chatting with Donna Vekic, Maria Sakkari, Harriet Dart and Caroline Garcia about porridge, killing time, music and films. Like the rain, the conversations flow.   Featured in this episode: Donna Vekic, Maria Sakkari, Harriet Dart and Caroline Garcia.

Ceri talks to long-time tennis photographer, Anthony Aduhene, about his profession and hears from many players about their love of Nottingham as a venue and a tournament. Ash Barty reveals she has family that lives nearby and Naomi Osaka talks about her battle to conquer grass as a surface. Meanwhile Harriet Dart tells us of the increased attention that doing well at Wimbledon can bring. Something she had previously experienced with Jay Clarke in the mixed doubles. Dan Evans discusses the different ways forward for young British players in the modern game and the LTA's work in this area.   Featured in this episode: Ash Barty, Naomi Osaka, Cam Norrie, Jo Konta, Dan Evans, Donna Vekic, Alex de Minaur and Harriet Dart.

Garry travels to Jay Clarke's hotel to catch up with him and his brother Curt before the adventures begin at Queen's Club. Jay talks through the pleasure of playing there and how much it means to him and his brother. They talk openly and honestly about how they prepare for tournaments and give real insight into the Clarke world and the journey they are making.    Featured in this episode: Jay Clarke

The tour has divided and Ceri follows the women's tour to Edgbaston in Birmingham for the Nature Valley Classic. The sun has come out and it may be time to put the shorts on. In the meantime Ceri is occupied by an array of top talent and manages to get a one to one interview with a young player who has only recently joined the WTA circuit. Her name is Iga Swiatek and she discusses what it's like as a wide-eyed newcomer to the pro world. Little would we know just how much her life would change in the coming months.   Featured in this episode: Naomi Osaka, Iga Swiatek, Elena Svitolina, Heather Watson and Jo Konta

Sound issues abound in the press conference room while Jelena Ostapenko tells us about just what happens when your bags don't come off the plane and Naomi Osaka talks all things grass and the mentality needed to cope with playing at the highest level. Ceri sits down with world number 1 doubles player, Su-Wei Hsieh for an often, hilarious discussion about tennis, relaxation time and the deer of Richmond Park! She quickly becomes one of our favourite interviewees and is the most engaging subject to talk to.   Featured in this episode: Jelena Ostapenko, Su-Wei Hsieh and Naomi Osaka

Garry is at Queen's Club waiting for the rain to stop so he can watch Jay Clarke in action. We follow Garry's day and his search for the Player's Lounge. Once found he unwisely takes on the king of table tennis, none other than Mr. Curt Clarke. Finally, the rain clears, and play is resumed.   Featured in this episode: Jay Clarke

Ceri catches up with old friend Ros Satar from Britwatch Sports and she shares her thoughts on the wonderful world of tennis. They also talk through a couple of wonderful surprises such as Venus Williams, on her first appearance at Edgbaston, pairing up with Harriet Dart for the doubles and the rare occurrence of the Pliskova twins playing against each other in a tournament. Who would win the present that has to be bought by the loser? All will be revealed in this particular family drama.   Featured in this episode: Venus Williams, Katy Dunne, Jack Draper, Paul Jubb, Harriet Dart, Krystina Pliskova and Karolina Pliskova

This episode sees Venus Williams sharing her thoughts on playing at Edgbaston for the very first time and Ceri gets a sit-down with Jennifer Brady, who shares her thoughts on coming through the college system and changing her mental approach to become a better player. After that the press room is treated to a meeting with Jo Konta and her beautiful blue miniature dachshund, Bono. Let's face it even in a podcast he steals the show!   Featured in this episode: Venus Williams, Jennifer Brady and Jo Konta (and Bono)

It's time to pack the bucket and spade, dig out the sun cream and head for the seaside and the last event before Wimbledon, the Eastbourne International. For many of the players this is the last time to get some time on grass and the mood is changing. As summer evolves the intensity grows. Ceri spends time with the engaging Elise Mertens, and Ash Barty talks about being the current No 1 and Ceri discovers what it takes to become a world number 1 from a host of previous holders of the top spot.    Featured in this episode: Jo Konta, Elise Mertens, Simona Halep, Ash Barty, Naomi Osaka, Caroline Wozniacki.

Garry joins Ceri in Eastbourne but only after Ceri gets thrown out of a round table press conference with Kyle Edmund for upsetting the sensibilities of several journalists, concerned about the new interloper on the press block stealing their thunder. You couldn't make this stuff up! Like true pros our dynamic duo get on with the task at hand and Garry gets to sit down with American coach, Paul Annacone and Taylor Fritz joins them. Meanwhile Ceri gets back on the horse and takes part in Paul Jubb's very first large-scale press conference.     Featured in this episode: Kiki Bertens, Taylor Fritz and Paul Jubb.

Ceri breaks down two press conferences with Andy Murray and Jo Konta and looks at how they are treated by the press. Why does so much get left unreported when the players say so much and give so much of themselves? Ceri also whiles away the time chatting to the charming and softly-spoken Hubert Hurcacz, a friend of the show from series 1. Ceri arranges a sit-down with Cam Norrie and takes part in an entertaining talk as they swap musical notes and both men discover their love of Bonobo. If you don't know them then go and find out!   Featured in this episode: Andy Murray, Jo Konta, Hubert Hurcacz, Dan Evans and Cam Norrie.

Ceri has his work cut out trying to be everywhere at once as there is a never-ending stream of top players to talk to. Plus Kiki Bertens provides a tried and trusted method to pass the time away from the tennis court. The day hurries by as the crowds soak up the sun and enjoy the quality tennis on display. Ceri is keen to make up for the lost time with Kyle Edmund after his removal the other day from the round table with him and seeks to get some one to one time with the British player. Will he be successful in his search? Oh, the jeopardy! Featured in this episode: Angie Kerber, Karolina Pliskova, Ons Jabeur, Simona Halep, Kiki Bertens, Aryna Sabalenka, Dan Evans and Kyle Edmund.

At the business end of the week one can discern that the top players are fine-tuning their grass-court game for the imminent arrival of Wimbledon. But the competition is fierce and all want to win the top prize here at Eastbourne. Ceri talks with Ubitennis journalist, Michael Stafford-Jones about the wonder of the pre-Wimbledon tournaments and he gives a good tip as to how to make certain of getting a ticket for the show courts at Wimbledon on the early days. Ceri then has a walk and talk with one of the tallest players on the tour, the charming Sam Querrey. It's a work out for Ceri's legs and arms to keep up with him!   Featured in this episode: Simona Halep, Ons Jabeur, Angie Kerber, Kiki Bertens, Kyle Edmund, Dan Evans and Sam Querrey.

It's Ceri's last day at Eastbourne and there's still so much to do! All week he has been keen to get a one-to-one interview with Aryna Sabalenka, one of the most exciting players on the circuit. But time is running out and will he manage to be granted this last big wish? One of his last tasks is to sit through the live Wimbledon draw with good friend, Ros Satar from Britwatch Sports. Who will Paul Jubb or Jay Clarke end up facing? The excitement is palpable and no one could have expected the draw that would reveal itself. Taylor Fritz proves to be a good talker on a walkabout with Ceri.   Featured in this episode: Dan Evans, Kiki Bertens, Naomi Osaka, Simona Halep, Katerina Pliskova, Sam Querrey, Taylor Fritz and Aryna Sabalenka.

The news that Jay Clarke has won his first round match at Wimbledon and will now face the one and only Roger Federer in the second round has Ceri and Garry jumping with joy. Seasoned journo Garry is the man on the scene and paints the day for Jay and all that it entails. He talks to fans, friends and family and takes his place in the players box. Soak up the atmosphere of a warm summer day at the hallowed home of tennis and live each moment as Dropshot is drawn to a conclusion that none of us could ever have expected.    Featured in this episode: Jay Clarke and Roger Federer.