Ground Pass

Anastasia is back from Delray Beach and has thoughts. A lot of them. This week, we get into why February might just be the best month on the tennis calendar, what it was actually like on the ground at the Delray Beach Open, and why the draw felt more like a 500 than a 250. We also break down Jessica Pegula winning Dubai, the WTA's new Tour Architecture Council, the debate around getting rid of 250-level events, and whether anyone can actually stop Carlos Alcaraz right now. Plus: player clips from Taylor Fritz, Casper Ruud, and Coleman Wong on tour life, 250s, and representing Hong Kong on the pro circuit. And we have an update on what the OFF SEASON cast is up to as the US spring swing kicks off.Links:Off Season Ep 3 - https://youtu.be/K77vLeZhyho?si=Cwx2jn7oeG6Gl4Kn Ground Pass Substack - https://groundpass.substack.com/Ground Pass Shop - https://www.groundpasspodcast.com/shop Ground Pass Patreon - https://www.patreon.com/cw/GroundPassPodcastChapters:00:00 Technical Difficulties and Weather Woes01:59 Delray Beach Tournament Overview09:52 The Future of 250 Tournaments24:39 Dubai Tournament Highlights29:38 The WTA rethinking their schedule33:20 Jessica Pegula's Consistency and Victory38:11 The Impact of Alex Eala on Tennis42:32 Doha: Sinner searching, Alcaraz unstoppable48:46 Goran Ivanisevic is back51:07 February: The Best Month for Tennis56:17 Upcoming Tournaments and Player Highlights01:03:05 OutroWe have Merch!!! Ground Pass Shop - https://www.groundpasspodcast.com/shop

Anastasia is on the road in Florida after covering the Dallas Open in person and she is breaking down what made it such a great “small tournament, big tennis” week. We talk atmosphere, access, and why Dallas felt like a stadium-within-a-stadium event. Then we jump to Doha where Karolina Muchova wins the title, Victoria Mboko breaks into the Top 10, and Mirra Andreeva's poise keeps leveling up. Plus, Qinwen Zheng returns, Rotterdam and Buenos Aires check-ins, Destanee Aiava's retirement post, and a packed “what's next” slate led by Dubai, Doha (men), Rio, and a seriously stacked Delray field. Players of the Fortnight: Elisabetta Cocciaretto and Jack Pinnington Jones.Links:Off Season Ep 3 - https://youtu.be/K77vLeZhyho?si=Cwx2jn7oeG6Gl4Kn Ground Pass Substack - https://groundpass.substack.com/Bryan Shelton Interview - https://youtu.be/U1IOObky2UE?si=KogAEfpDK4rcMMIR Destanee Aiava instagram post - https://www.instagram.com/p/DUu-THaE6KR/?igsh=MThrdTFqa3ZmcHN2Nw==Chapters:00:00 Introduction02:24 Dallas Open Experience16:44 Doha: The feel good Tournament29:42 Tournament Updates: Rotterdam and Buenos Aires34:16 Destanee Aiava retires at 2638:14 Upcoming Tournaments: Dubai and Delray Beach Preview49:15 Players of the Fortnight: Rising Stars in Focus53:52 OutroWe have Merch!!! Ground Pass Shop - https://www.groundpasspodcast.com/shop

Anastasia is on the ground in Dallas for her first Dallas Open, kicking off the season's first mini-pod from a hotel room after a long travel day. She recaps a busy post–Australian Open week across the tours, from Emma Raducanu's return to a final in Cluj-Napoca and Katie Boulter's title in Ostrava, to Sara Bejlek's breakthrough WTA 500 win in Abu Dhabi. On the ATP side, Felix Auger-Aliassime stays red hot indoors by defending his Montpellier crown, plus a quick Davis Cup check-in and what's next with Doha and the February swing. Finally, it's an OFF SEASON roundup week, with Hailey Baptiste surging in Abu Dhabi, Ethan Quinn delivering in his first Davis Cup appearance, and Colton Smith defending his Challenger title. Links:Off Season Ep 1: https://youtu.be/0U3F4CfUsh0?si=YA0OxZ7OKP_9rUKF Off Season Ep 2: https://youtu.be/XwysI8QBSgk?si=Yr2b6fmxsM8qwk2t Chapters:00:00 Intro01:47 Dallas Open Coverage Begins03:56 WTA Highlights: Brits Shine09:06 ATP Insights: Indoor Kings and Davis Cup13:31 Off-Season Athletes Making Waves17:55 Upcoming Tournaments and Events21:48 Merchandise Updates and Community EngagementWe have Merch!!! Ground Pass Shop - https://www.groundpasspodcast.com/shop

We made it through 15 days of Melbourne and the finals delivered. Elena Rybakina outlasts Aryna Sabalenka in a fire-and-ice classic to claim her second Slam. Then Carlos Alcaraz beats Novak Djokovic to complete the Career Grand Slam at 22. We also shout out Tokito Oda, celebrate doubles champs Neal Skupski and Chris Harrison, talk “Player of the Fortnight,” and look ahead to what's next on tour.Links:Off Season YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@OffSeasondocChapters:00:00 Sweater Talk and Introduction00:38 Historic Australian Open Review02:21 Women's Final: Elena Rybakina's Triumph17:38 Men's Final: Carlos Alcaraz vs. Novak Djokovic32:22 Tournament Reflections and Fan Experience43:54 Other Tournament News51:31 Coming up next on Tour56:46 Player of the FortnightWe have Merch!!! Ground Pass Shop - https://www.groundpasspodcast.com/shop

We finally gets the semi-finals we were waiting for. We break down Carlos Alcaraz vs Alexander Zverev and Jannik Sinner vs Novak Djokovic, including the cramping debate, the breakpoint chaos, and what it all means for a historic final. Plus, quick hits on Aryna Sabalenka vs Elina Svitolina, Elena Rybakina vs Jessica Pegula, the doubles and wheelchair finals, and a few tournaments we are tracking beyond Melbourne. Also, last call for the Ground Pass sweatsuit drop.Links:Ground Pass Sweatsuits: https://www.groundpasspodcast.com/shop/p/us-summer-swing-heavyweight-tee-2025-sfkbw-cz6zw-amx89Off Season YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@OffSeasondocChapters:00:00 Australian Open Semi-Finals Recap04:07 Women's Semi-Finals Overview13:38 Men's Semi-Finals Highlights19:49 Djokovic vs. Sinner: A Clash of Generations23:50 Historic Final: Alcaraz vs. Djokovic28:20 Doubles and Wheelchair Events Overview34:14 Other Tournaments happening37:03 OutroWe have Merch!!! Ground Pass Shop - https://www.groundpasspodcast.com/shop

The Australian Open quarterfinals are done. The seeds mostly held, the men's side stayed tidy, and the women gave us the sharper tension. We break down Alcaraz vs De Minaur, Zverev vs Learner Tien, Sinner's control against Shelton, and Djokovic's strange path into the semis after Musetti's injury. On the WTA side, we talk Jovic's lesson-filled loss to Sabalenka, Svitolina's shocker over Gauff, Rybakina finding her edge, and Pegula's ultra-clean run. Plus: doubles unpredictability, quick notes from the Philippines Open and San Diego, and a bigger question. Do fans actually want the behind-the-scenes hallway cameras?Links:Ground Pass Sweatsuits: https://www.groundpasspodcast.com/shop/p/us-summer-swing-heavyweight-tee-2025-sfkbw-cz6zw-amx89Carlos Alcaraz Press Conference: https://youtu.be/alLz7Ru3-VQ?si=wZ0ZajdEKdA_cxpn Off Season YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@OffSeasondocChapters:00:00 Quarterfinal Review and Tournament Overview02:12 Men's Quarterfinal Highlights11:02 Musetti's Injury and Djokovic's Path16:10 Women's Quarterfinal Insights27:21 Doubles Drama and Surprises30:31 Semifinals Lineup31:30 Other Tournaments in the mix35:08 Ground Pass Admin37:52 Behind the Scenes Cameras: A Controversial Topic46:00 OutroWe have Merch!!! Ground Pass Shop - https://www.groundpasspodcast.com/ground-pass-shop

Round three and four are in the books, and we are looking ahead to a stacked quarterfinal slate. We talk WTA Next Gen fearlessness (Mboko, Jovic, Andreeva), the conversation around confidence and “earning it,” and why Learner Tien is still not getting the respect he deserves. Plus: the Sinner heat and roof drama, Djokovic's “luck” conversation, a quick doubles check-in, and a shoutout to the Philippines Open and the energy Alex Eala is bringing to tennis in Southeast Asia.Also, last call to pre-order the Ground Pass sweatsuit before the end of January.Links:Ground Pass Sweatsuits: https://www.groundpasspodcast.com/shop/p/us-summer-swing-heavyweight-tee-2025-sfkbw-cz6zw-amx89Lucy Deuce: https://www.instagram.com/lucyydeuce?igsh=MWM2MGVrZDhsbjd1cA==Islandtennisgirl: https://x.com/islandtennisace?s=21&t=34KFRaMxpc-93mq_1EOI7ATennis Asia: https://youtube.com/@tennisasiatv?si=ERjg30f0d-OZzJvDChapters:00:00 Introduction to the Australian Open Review02:30 Round Three and Four Highlights04:39 Emerging Talents in Women's Tennis10:08 Men's Side: Learner Tien16:38 Luck of the Draw24:35 Doubles Dynamics29:11 Quarterfinals Preview37:23 Emerging Tennis Markets: The Philippines and BeyondWe have Merch!!! Ground Pass Shop - https://www.groundpasspodcast.com/ground-pass-shop

It is the Grand Slam fashion episode. I am joined by Ian Mondul of 40 Love Tennis to break down the Australian Open fits that are actually moving the needle. We talk Naomi Osaka's runway moment and why it is more tennis heritage than people think, Sabalenka's new Gucci partnership, Musetti's perfect Bottega era, and the brand-by-brand kit audit from Nike and Adidas to Wilson, New Balance, Lacoste, and more. Plus a quick detour into the heat drama from Sinner vs Eliot Spizzirri and why this match put Eliot on the map.Links:40Love on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/fortylovetennis?igsh=ZG1na3d2ZjhvZm9kOff Season: Episode 1 - https://youtu.be/0U3F4CfUsh0?si=1LG59ziOx1V-mYfR Hardcourt Newsletter - https://substack.com/@hardcourt?r=64928&utm_medium=ios&utm_source=profile&shareImageVariant=lightTim Henman on TNT - https://www.instagram.com/reel/DTvXne_kZDo/?igsh=MWczbnRwNHEzNGN2OQ==Chapters:00:00 Welcome and Weather Check02:29 Australian Open Day 7 Recap03:24 Stan Wawrinka's Last Match07:56 Naomi Osaka's Withdrawal09:26 Elliot Spizzirri vs. Jannik Sinner19:58 Australain Open Threads22:22 Naomi Osaka's Runway36:58 Embracing Individuality in Tennis Fashion38:26 Luxury Collaborations: A New Era in Tennis47:24 Brand by Brand break down47:40 Nike & Adidas55:27 New Balance and Yonex01:01:03 Wilson01:05:04 Lululemon and ASICS01:10:43 Fila, Lacoste & ON01:17:38 The Others - Jomo, Head, CP Company, Penguin01:24:23 Our Favorite Outfits of the TournamentWe have Merch!!! Ground Pass Shop - https://www.groundpasspodcast.com/ground-pass-shop

Round 1 and 2 at the Australian Open delivered everything. Qualifiers are flipping the script, the crowds are breaking records daily, and the WTA Next Gen is making a serious statement. We talk Alex Eala's superstar support, Zeynep Sonmez's red-and-white takeover, Bartunkova's breakout, and the early upsets (plus a little Putinseva theater). Then we look ahead to a loaded Round 3 slate, including Quinn vs Mensik, Spizzirri vs Sinner, Baptiste vs Gauff, and Wawrinka vs Fritz.Links:Off Season: Episode 1 - https://youtu.be/0U3F4CfUsh0?si=1LG59ziOx1V-mYfR Chapters:00:00 Intro - Aus Open Rd 1 & 2 review02:36 Follow Grand Slam matches through radio05:33 The US ESPN issue08:45 A look pack at Round 1 & 246:54 Exciting Round Three Matches PreviewWe have Merch!!! Ground Pass Shop - https://www.groundpasspodcast.com/ground-pass-shop

The Australian Open is officially underway and we are feeling the FOMO. We get into Federer taking over Melbourne, why the One Point Slam was the best pre-tournament idea in years, and what Aussie Open Fan Week says about where tennis is headed. Then we run through Adelaide, Auckland, and Hobart winners, the WTA Next Gen wave, how the draw works, the qualifiers we're watching, and the first-round matchups we are circling. Plus: how we're watching from home and what's coming next from Ground Pass, including the OFF SEASON premiere on January 18 at 4 PM ET. - https://youtu.be/0U3F4CfUsh0?si=e0kDZH3qfxfaojX7 Links:Link send us a Question - https://www.groundpasspodcast.com/voice-memoGround Pass Patreon - https://www.patreon.com/cw/GroundPassPodcastOne Point Slam video - https://www.youtube.com/live/TengZOvRTlc?si=41jm60KZfHx1lZ-N Our Draw explanation show - https://youtu.be/2-F1wmPcnLQ?si=Xu1YJk2q0xtu7u9R Chapters:00:00 Intro - Welcome to the Australian Open05:01 Recent Tournament Recap: Adelaide, Auckland & Hobart10:10 Next Gen Players Making Waves20:55 Looking back at the Australian Open Fan Week32:13 Our Australian Open Preview41:52 Spotlight on Qualifiers47:27 Exciting Matches to Watch52:26 How to Watch the Australian Open54:53 Upcoming Projects and Wrap-UpWe have Merch!!! Ground Pass Shop - https://www.groundpasspodcast.com/ground-pass-shop

Qualifying is here, so we're jumping in early with a full Australian Open preview featuring Lucy Deuce (Black Spin Global). We answer a Ground Pass Hotline question about watching player practices at tournaments, share a listener voice memo from the United Cup in Sydney, and break down the first week of the season across Brisbane, Auckland, Hong Kong, and the United Cup. Plus: who looks ready for a deep run, who might need more reps, the WTA next wave showing up fast, what makes Grand Slam qualifying so brutal, and the names we're watching this week as the main draw gets close.Links:Lucy Deuce on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lucyydeuce?igsh=MWM2MGVrZDhsbjd1cA== || Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lucy.deuce?_r=1&_t=ZP-9315gur7Ev0Brad Stine Interview - https://youtu.be/tcodbF-e3EY?si=-drGONmLmLyMsvs4Sincaraz from the plane - https://x.com/skysports/status/2010721025051209946?s=46&t=34KFRaMxpc-93mq_1EOI7APrime france show - https://youtu.be/m8MMXHsO34o?si=36YJQJsvtFMi5UaXChapters:00:00 Introduction03:35 Groundpass Hotline: Viewer Questions11:19 A Voice Note from the United Cup15:57 Week 1 of the 2026 Season - United Cup, Brisbane & Auckland23:31 Who is looking good & who is not in week 133:28 The Storylines you might have missed in week 140:27 Australian Open Preview47:08 A Tangent: The Role of Coaches in Tennis52:42 Key Storylines for the Australian Open57:55 A Sincaraz Tangent 01:03:30 Understanding the Qualifying Rounds01:05:43 Spotlight on Qualifying Players01:16:26 How to Watch the Australian Open01:19:30 Upcoming Tournaments and Player Highlights01:23:35 Player of the Fortnight01:30:03 OutroWe have Merch!!! Ground Pass Shop - https://www.groundpasspodcast.com/ground-pass-shop

Season 3 starts with a guest I have been wanting to bring on for ages. Content creator Elliemajelly joins us to talk about what it's really like traveling the tennis tour alongside her boyfriend, doubles player James Watt, and why tennis content is having a major moment right now. We also kick off the year with a United Cup Q&A (yes, the points are confusing), our new weekly newsletter Ground Pass Weekly, and a quick look at what's next on the Aussie swing. Plus: the sponsor shakeups are wild, the player vlogs are multiplying, Arthur Fils shares a tough injury update, and Venus Williams is back.Links:Link to Sweatsuit preorder (closes january 19th) - https://www.groundpasspodcast.com/shop/gp-holiday-collectionLink send us a Question - https://www.groundpasspodcast.com/voice-memoSubscribe to Newsletter here - https://groundpass.substack.comGround Pass Patreon - https://patreon.com/GroundPassPodcast?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink Hard court article - https://open.substack.com/pub/hardcourt/p/wilson-alex-de-minaur-karen-khachanov-jiri-lehecka?utm_campaign=post-expanded-share&utm_medium=post%20viewer Chapters:00:00 Introduction to Season 312:44 Elliemajelly: The Origin of a Unique Name16:58 Transitioning from Corporate to Tennis Content Creation24:55 Challenges of Recording at Tournaments27:39 Future Plans and Aspirations in Tennis Content30:11 Excitement for Upcoming Tournaments33:00 The United Cup and Current Tennis Events37:49 Innovations in Tennis: The United Cup Experience46:45 The Return of Tennis: Highlights from the United Cup52:47 Apparel Sponsorship Shifts: A New Era in Tennis Fashion59:52 The Rise of Player Vlogs01:12:00 Upcoming Tournaments and Player Highlights01:14:10 OutroWe have Merch!!! Ground Pass Shop - https://www.groundpasspodcast.com/ground-pass-shop

Season 2 ends with a proper tennis reset. We preview the United Cup and the early-week matchups we cannot wait for, then zoom out to the cultural moment of Heated Rivalry and why tennis still struggles to embrace sports entertainment without nitpicking it to death. Plus, we unpack the Carlos Alcaraz and Juan Carlos Ferrero split, the latest on Jack Draper missing the Australian swing, and the small sign Nike might be taking tennis kits seriously again. Also, a quick tease of what's coming next for Ground Pass in 2026.Links:Marca Article with Juan Carlos Ferrero: https://www.marca.com/tenis/2025/12/24/ferrero-forma-jugar-carlos-me-tenia-enamorado-mejor-historia.html MTP - Nick McCarvel: https://youtu.be/Kl937_u-C-U?si=HjdkOeTpSeSX1fWw MTP - Brad Stine: https://youtu.be/tcodbF-e3EY?si=ZkO6hcPyCucBHbot Off Season Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/offseasontv/ Chapters:00:00 Intro03:46 Heated Rivalry and Its Impact on Sports Media18:52 Carlos Alcaraz and Juan Carlos Ferrero's Split30:26 United Cup Preview36:18 Team Dynamics and Predictions for the United Cup41:55 Analyzing the United Cup's Impact on Player Performance47:13 Key Matches to Watch in the United Cup53:36 Tennis News and Ground Pass Updates58:40 Nike's Potential Return to Tennis Fashion01:01:48 Ground Pass Update01:09:52 What's Next On Tour?01:13:01 OutroWe have Merch!!! Ground Pass Shop - https://www.groundpasspodcast.com/ground-pass-shop

What do Jim Courier and Tommy Paul have in common? Brad Stine. In this Meet the Professionals episode, Brad takes us from the early 90s to today's tour, breaking down what great coaching actually looks like. We talk trust, team size, travel, on-court coaching, and why tennis coaches still do not get the household-name shine of NBA or NFL coaches.Chapters:00:00 Intro00:56 Meet Brad Stine: Introduction to Coaching and Early Aspirations04:31 The Journey into Coaching06:36 Transitioning to the Pro ATP Tour10:49 Coaching in the Modern Era18:21 The Multifaceted Role of a Coach25:43 The Psychological Aspects of Coaching29:27 Building Trust with Players35:08 The Evolution of Coaching in Tennis43:11 Visibility and Recognition of Coaches50:45 Responsibility and Accountability in Coaching54:48 The Unsung Heroes of Coaching01:00:18 The Future of Tennis Coaching01:16:31 Quickfire Insights and Final Thoughts01:23:00 OutroWe have Merch!!! Ground Pass Shop - https://www.groundpasspodcast.com/ground-pass-shop

It's our year-in-review fashion and culture edition. I'm joined by new Ground Pass contributor Kaya Courtside to break down the exhibition season and what it's really like covering tennis behind the scenes, from UTS Finals in London to the chaos and charm of these off-season events. Then I hand out my 2025 tennis style “awards,” from best dressed and outfit of the year to the meme moments that took over our feeds. Plus, quick tennis news: the WTA's Mercedes-Benz era begins in 2026, Garbiñe Muguruza joins Madrid's leadership team, Serena's testing-pool headline sparks speculation, and Next Gen is around the corner. 00:00 Introduction to the Year in Review03:12 Introducing Kaya Courtside and UTS Finals30:10 Exhibition Season and Upcoming Events31:03 Fashion and Style Awards of 202536:11 Outfit of the Year and Brand Partnerships41:58 Cultural Moments and Player Highlights45:29 Tennis Photos and Memes of the Year51:31 Most Stylish Tournament and Personality of the Year58:52 WTA News and Future Predictions01:04:44 Upcoming Projects and Wrap-UpLinks:- GP Exhibition Deep Dive Episode - https://youtu.be/fjuxg3dzIXs?si=raOH2B8XOMWO7wrD - The Real Challenger Documentary - https://youtu.be/fjuxg3dzIXs?si=raOH2B8XOMWO7wrD - Off Season Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/offseasontv?igsh=MWJhaHZ4ano4NWlpeQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr - Off Season Tiktok - We have Merch!!! Ground Pass Shop - https://www.groundpasspodcast.com/ground-pass-shop

In this episode of Meet the Professionals, I sit down with tennis host, commentator, and writer Nick McCarvel to unpack what it really looks like to build a career in tennis media.Nick shares how a childhood dream in Montana turned into bylines at the New York Times and USA Today, and how that writing work eventually led him to the mic as an on-court host at Grand Slams and big events around the world. We talk about cold-calling editors, early social media experiments, and why persistence (and a lot of “no”s) still matter in 2025.Nick also pulls back the curtain on his current roles with the Olympic Channel and at tournaments like Cincinnati, Roland Garros, Wimbledon and the Australian Open. He explains how he prepares to tell players' stories on court, deals with nerves and stage fright as an introvert, and why research and empathy are just as important as being good on camera.If you've ever wondered how to get into tennis journalism, presenting, or sports media more broadly, this is your masterclass.Chapters:00:00 Introduction and Background02:54 Career Journey in Tennis Journalism06:06 Transition to On-Camera Presence09:08 Connecting with Players and Audience12:03 Research and Preparation for Interviews15:01 Innovations in Tennis Presentation17:58 Advice for Aspiring Tennis ProfessionalsLinks:Nick McCarvel on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/nickmccarvel?igsh=MXU4YW1uZXQ0MGhudw==We have Merch!!! Ground Pass Shop - https://www.groundpasspodcast.com/ground-pass-shop

It is time for the Ground Pass Awards. Anastasia and Nick are handing out their very own trophies for the 2025 tennis season. Think Oscars energy with a very casual dress code.They run through favorite tournament of the year, best match, biggest plot twist, and the off court moments that broke the internet. From the Citi Open and Charleston to Ilkley, from the Sincaraz Roland Garros final to Madison Keys in Melbourne, it is a full season recap through the lens of Ground Pass.You will also hear their picks for breakthrough and most improved players, the tennis story of the year, and the official Ground Pass Players of the Year on the men's and women's side. Plus a quick fire round, bold predictions for 2026, and a love letter to small tournaments and doubles.Chapters:00:00 Ground Pass Tennis Oscars02:17 Best tournament07:59 Best Match15:23 Breakthrough Player of the Year21:27 Biggest Plot twist29:18 Best Off court moment of 202533:28 Quick Fire Categories42:08 Tennis Story of the Year47:39 Ground Pass Players of the YearLinks:Emma Raducanu Match Stories - https://www.instagram.com/reel/DNb5JDygQ_M/?igsh=MTQwdmlva2c5OGg5ZQ== Sincaraz Roland Garros match stories - https://youtu.be/k7mgL4GSRI4?si=rMfUXMM8oi8aAihz Muchova Point - https://www.instagram.com/reel/DRAOc4ZjIn8/?igsh=MTNudnlpdGdxdHI2Mg==Ostapenko/Townsend Match Story - https://youtu.be/3arCsp2jvvE?si=3EwPuE2NcFBSbRe0 We have Merch!!! Ground Pass Shop - https://www.groundpasspodcast.com/ground-pass-shop

This week, Anastasia and Nick break down a wildly entertaining Davis Cup. Spain overachieved. Belgium stole our hearts. Germany survived doubles chaos. And Italy completed a dominant run without Jannik Sinner. We also talk Carlos Alcaraz's viral living room photo, Arthur Fils' injury update, Fabio Fognini's Dancing with the Stars era, Rafa Nadal's return to the court, and Roger Federer's Hall of Fame induction. We wrap up with the Ground Pass Gift Guide and preview the upcoming Ground Pass Awards.Chapters:00:00 Introduction02:36 Q&A - The Absence of the US in the Davis Cup06:49 The Evolution and Popularity of the Davis Cup17:22 The Stories that dominated Davis Cup: No Sincaraz18:29 Doubles deciders and Tiebreaks & Team Belgium26:39 Team Spain: The underdogs32:26 The dominance of Italian Tennis38:51 Other News around Tennis44:40 Mental and Physical Health in Tennis52:19 Rafael Nadal's Comeback Journey53:42 Roger Federer's Hall of Fame Induction57:01 Fabio Fognini's Dancing with the Stars Journey58:48 Groundpass Offseason Plans and Gift Guide01:03:06 Groundpass Awards Preview01:07:35 OutroLinks:⁃Ground Pass Gift Guide - https://www.groundpasspodcast.com/tournament-guides/-ground-pass-gift-guide-2025-the-best-tennis-gifts-of-the-seasonWe have Merch!!! Ground Pass Shop - https://www.groundpasspodcast.com/ground-pass-shop

The ATP Finals in Turin are officially in the books, and yes… the Sincaraz final we all predicted actually delivered. Anastasia breaks down how we got there: Ben Shelton's muted week, Taylor Fritz's quietly excellent season, Alex de Minaur's redemption arc, Lorenzo Musetti's hometown surge, and Felix Auger-Aliassime's rise back into the top five.She also digs into Alexander Zverev and the “Lost Boys” generation, why Sinner's indoor dominance is starting to feel inevitable, and how the doubles event turned into a sunglasses-fuelled fashion show before ending with a statement win for Patten & Heliovaara.Then it's a mini Davis Cup preview (hello Bologna), a look at the United Cup draw, and a few must-listen tennis recs—from Andy Murray's hilarious interview on The Ramesh Ranganathan Show to the Player Box pod's behind-the-scenes WTA Finals stories—plus news of Ons Jabeur's baby.Chapters:00:00 Intro00:55 ATP Finals Review 02:18 Player Performances08:39 Zverev11:27 FAA16:19 Sincaraz22:28 Doubles Matches30:43 Davis Cup Preview33:38 Tennis NewsLinks:FAA Press Conference - https://youtu.be/mExNSX4WtCU?si=9cTAn4tTlzVPcfy1&t=87 Sinner Indoor Stat - https://x.com/universtennis/status/1990141713235444042?s=46&t=34KFRaMxpc-93mq_1EOI7ASunglasses walk out video - https://www.instagram.com/reel/DREz80HjE8A/?igsh=MWthdG54ZGd6ZjA5ZQ==Vavassori instagram - https://www.instagram.com/andrevavassori?igsh=dDllampoNGhwaWdlUnited Cup draw - https://www.unitedcup.com/en/media/news/united-cup-2026-draw-revealed We have Merch!!! Ground Pass Shop - https://www.groundpasspodcast.com/ground-pass-shop

Anastasia and Nick break down the thrilling close to the WTA season — Elena Rybakina's flawless run in Riyadh, Aryna Sabalenka's fiery consistency, and what Coco Gauff and Iga Swiatek's “rebuilding” phases really mean heading into 2026. Then they pivot to the ATP Finals, unpacking Novak Djokovic's late withdrawal, Lorenzo Musetti's mad dash to Turin, and why the Alcaraz–Sinner rivalry now defines men's tennis. Plus: doubles shakeups, the ATP's new Spotify deal, and the so-called “Battle of the Sexes” rematch.Chapters:00:00 Intro01:55 Audience Q&A09:00 WTA Finals review52:22 ATP Finals Preview01:12:46 The News Around Tennis01:35:35 OutroLinks:Morgan's Mexico City GP vlog - https://youtu.be/HDb8Ng-f2xo?si=YgjIfWUEWXeSwwb9 Players box Podcast - https://www.youtube.com/@ThePlayersBoxPodcastDoubles reels - https://www.instagram.com/reel/DQ1b3-dDhi5/?igsh=MXYxNDhnZTgzamxjdA==Hardcourt article - https://open.substack.com/pub/hardcourt/p/the-tennis-tours-content-conundrum?r=64928&utm_medium=iosWe have Merch!!! Ground Pass Shop - https://www.groundpasspodcast.com/ground-pass-shop

Anastasia and Nick recap a jam-packed week in tennis, from the glitz and glamour of the WTA Finals in Riyadh to the drama and breakthroughs at the Paris Masters. They debate the WTA's fashion moment of the year, break down Madison Keys' surprising serve change, and celebrate rising stars like Vicky Mboko and Janice Tjen. Plus, Valentin Vacherot continues to stun, FAA fights to reach Turin, and Bublik becomes a serious contender. It's all happening—even after the US Open.Chapters:00:00 Intro01:08 Ground Passer Q&A07:20 WTA Finals Update08:38 Reaction to the WTA Player Photo18:22 The Tennis results so far at the WTA Finals28:52 Paris Masters Review42:01 Editing Notes!44:18 Voice Note from the Paris Masters49:28 FAA's resurgence and the chaos of figuring out who mades the YEF59:59 Bublik is a Top 15 Player!01:05:15 Hong Kong Review - The WTA Next Gen tournament01:12:51 What's coming next week on tour01:14:58 Player of the Fortnight01:21:56 OutroLinks:Link to the WTA Finals Photo - https://www.instagram.com/p/DQeKYmHkfuF/?igsh=ZmM3c2FjZHNhdXl0Sabalenka/Paolini practice clip - https://www.instagram.com/reel/DQZ2QRYkq72/?igsh=NHJicWZ4ZWVycnYxLink to the WAG episode - https://youtu.be/ms2pOe_Tffo?si=eaTDWv7lzm9TwC4QLink to the Hardcourt Article - https://open.substack.com/pub/hardcourt/p/a-definitive-guide-to-the-tennis?r=47h9qh&utm_medium=iosLink to Double H interview - https://youtu.be/b1W8amIALyg?si=AmHbwgwGe8DEd-ho•⁃Harri's blog - https://www.harriheliovaara.fi/?fbclid=PAdGRleAN1tXdleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABpxSyBHFx9AFh0rHJzS83q7OLop6xtTiqanQSuR2T0XZLAyRihXETtd4T0NFV_aem_vMpCIEwBTKF74_BMUGP6hQWe have Merch!!! Ground Pass Shop - https://www.groundpasspodcast.com/ground-pass-shop

In this bonus episode of Ground Pass, Anastasia is joined by Jessica from Hard Court and Emily Snyder — partner of Shanghai Masters champion Valentin Vacherot — for a deep dive into the evolving “WAG-scape.” They discuss how tennis girlfriends and wives are reshaping fan culture, influencer partnerships, and visibility in the sport. Emily shares her whirlwind love story, how she balances her own career in sports business, and what life looks like as her boyfriend rockets into the ATP Top 40.Chapters:00:00 Intro to the WAG-scape09:29 Who is a WAG?10:37 How did Emily & Valantin meet?17:09 Emily's Intro to the tennis world23:50 Emily's Career Development37:45 How Emily supports Val in his career44:12 What's next for Emily47:16 OutroLinks:WAG-scape article on Hardcourt Substack - https://open.substack.com/pub/hardcourt/p/a-definitive-guide-to-the-tennis?r=47h9qh&utm_medium=iosEmily on TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@emilysnyderr?_t=ZP-90zYVXelZrL&_r=1Emily on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/emilysnyyder?igsh=NGIyOGhxZm5ybnl2We have Merch!!! Ground Pass Shop - https://www.groundpasspodcast.com/ground-pass-shop

Anastasia and Nick are back for a full episode as the 2025 tennis season winds down. This week, they preview the WTA Finals in Riyadh — from format and field breakdowns to the Elena Rybakina vs. Mirra Andreeva qualification drama — and dive into the final Masters of the year in Paris. Plus: the ATP's new Saudi Masters event, Davis Cup updates, and how the fall swing revealed just how worn out players are after a long year.Chapters:00:00 Intro04:06 Audience Q&A07:39 WTA Finals Preview36:38 Preview of the Paris Masters48:58 Tour News Round-Up01:00:28 Winners this Week on Tour01:11:07 Tournaments This Week On Tour01:13:11 OutroWe have Merch!!! Ground Pass Shop - https://www.groundpasspodcast.com/ground-pass-shop

This week, Anastasia and Nick take on one of the most debated topics in tennis — exhibitions. From the Six Kings Slamin Saudi Arabia to Laver Cup, Hopman Cup, and UTS, they unpack why players play them, why fans argue about them, and how events like these actually shape tennis culture.They explore the three main types of exhibitions — money events, charity exhibitions, and rival tours — and what makes each unique. Plus, a packed week in tennis.And Players of the Fortnight: Valentin Vacherot and Tereza Valentova.Chapters:00:00 Intro01:27 Audience Question09:10 All about Tennis Exhibitions10:03 The Controversy of Exhibitions12:18 What is An Exhibition14:23 Type 1 - The Money Exo21:01 Type 2 - Charitable Exo24:11 Type 3 - Competitive Exo30:22 Why do players Play Exo30:43 The Appeal of Exhibitions for Players33:23 Reason 1: Mental Breaks35:45 Reason 2: Money37:44 Reason 3: Experiment & Train40:48 Audience Perception49:02 Exo's help promote the sport & The Issue of SA52:04 Concluding Thoughts on Enjoying Tennis53:08 Last week in Tennis54:29 ATP Update01:02:34 WTA Update01:08:50 Injury Woes01:11:25 Upcoming Tournaments01:13:05 Player of the Fortnight: Vacherot and Valentova01:20:39 OutroLinks:Fedal South African Exhibition: https://youtu.be/BA5ti_6rFro?si=f1yK79J8iWlBKVic Hailey Baptiste On Tour With Tokyo: https://groundpass.substack.com/p/on-tour-with-hailey-baptiste-tokyoNothing Major interview with Valentin Vacherot: https://youtu.be/lzQxsTPBxHs?si=3PEcAXqgiFe-VfB0 We have Merch!!! Ground Pass Shop - https://www.groundpasspodcast.com/ground-pass-shop

Anastasia breaks down the most surprising and satisfying weekend in tennis — the all-American final in Wuhan and the cousin showdown in Shanghai. From Coco Gauff perfecting the art of “winning ugly” to Valentin Vacherot and Arthur Rinderknech's once-in-a-lifetime Masters final, this episode captures everything that made the weekend unforgettable.Chapters:00:00 Intro00:21 Coco Gauff's Journey to the Wuhan Final05:53 Jessica Pagula's Gritty Path to the Final10:46 The All-American Final: Gauff vs. Pagula18:54 The Cousin Final: A Unique Tennis Story36:33 Wrap-Up and Upcoming EventsLinks:Hailey Baptiste On Tour With post - https://groundpass.substack.com/p/on-tour-with-hailey-baptiste-beijingJessica Pegula post Sabalenka Press Conference transcript - https://www.groundpasspodcast.com/bestweekintennis Link to Winning Ugly Book - https://amzn.to/42CCYW9 Lost Boys Video - https://youtu.be/9maE1Nb8e3o?si=kxwhVV5cnVUSFKk8Quote from Vacherot's Coach - https://www.groundpasspodcast.com/bestweekintennis Also We have Merch!!! Ground Pass Shop - https://www.groundpasspodcast.com/ground-pass-shop

Beijing wrapped, Shanghai rolls—and we've got a voice note from Eddie McGhee (Tennis Asia) on what it's like on the ground in Shanghai: humidity, facial-recognition entry, and a downtown fan zone screen. Plus: Anisimova's title, Learner Tien's breakout, Double-H back in the winner's circle, Americans in Shanghai, and Players of the Fortnight: Eva Lys and Jerry Shang. Q&A lightning round too.Chapters:00:00 Intro01:59 Catching Up on Asian Tennis17:30 Voice Note from Eddie of Tennis Asia30:50 WTA Insights: Beijing Tournament Dynamics55:25 Q&A Session: Listener Questions01:00:59 Upcoming Tournaments and Player Highlights01:02:57 Players of the Fortnite: Celebrating Achievements01:08:45 OutroLinks:Meet the Players: Henry Patten & Harry Heliovarra - https://youtu.be/b1W8amIALyg?si=qma0_egV9H9fsET3 Match Stories Playlist - https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLMv2o_TqSl7Z2nZcXDbu7X8edwtWJsBL4&si=CLYiT48EYcWIq-jR Eddie From Tennis Asia Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@TennisAsiaTV/videosEddie From Tennis Asia X: https://x.com/tennisasia?s=21&t=34KFRaMxpc-93mq_1EOI7A Also We have Merch!!! Ground Pass Shop - https://www.groundpasspodcast.com/ground-pass-shop

Ground Pass is turning 2!

This week's mini pod covers three big topics:

Anastasia (recording from California) and Nick tackle the Asia swing's time-zone brain melt, introduce our new Substack series On Tour With… (featuring Ethan Quinn's first trip to Asia), and relive a wild team-events fortnight: Spain-Denmark grit, Belgium's upset over Australia, and a tense USA-GB semifinal at the BJK Cup. We also unpack the Taylor Townsend IG controversy, share a listener voice note straight from the Korea Open (Pimm's + Coke?!), debate the value of the Laver Cup, and crown our Players of the Fortnight: Rafael Collignon and Janice Tjen.Links:On Tour With Ethan Quinn - https://groundpass.substack.com/p/on-tour-with-ethan-quinn-in-chengduEllie Ma Jelly: Documenting following her boyfriend on tour - https://www.instagram.com/elliemajelly?igsh=MWdteHU4Zjlkd2gxcA==Served Live Podcast with Team Captains - https://youtu.be/8tj4Qh4WbrI?si=shKXvY4tuw60LHTk Also We have Merch!!!Ground Pass Shop - https://www.groundpasspodcast.com/ground-pass-shopChapters00:00 Introduction and Time Zone Challenges02:45 Recap of Previous Episodes and Meet the Professionals05:31 The Asian Swing & New Substack Series: On Tour With12:54 Cultural Sensitivity and Recent Controversies24:07 A Voice Note from the Korea Open30:47 Emerging Players from Underrepresented Countries32:47 Team Tennis - Davis Cup, BJK Cup & Laver Cup33:42 Davis Cup Recap43:17 Billie Jean King Cup51:15 The Laver Cup: A Different Kind of Team Spirit01:10:35 Next Week on Tour...01:14:10 Player of the Fortnight

Anastasia sits down at the Cincinnati Open with Brian Garber, coach of Ethan Quinn, for a candid conversation about the realities of life as a pro tennis coach. From starting out feeding balls to kids and ladies' teams, to learning under Brad Stine, to now guiding one of America's most promising young players, Brian shares his coaching philosophy, the importance of relationships, and what it takes to survive the grind of the ATP Tour.Also We have Merch!!!Ground Pass Shop - https://www.groundpasspodcast.com/ground-pass-shop

Anastasia and Nick wrap up the final Grand Slam of the year with a full US Open 2025 review. From Carlos Alcaraz defeating Jannik Sinner in their third final of the season, to Aryna Sabalenka defending her title against Amanda Anisimova, we break down the biggest matches and storylines.We also highlight Taylor Townsend's run, Granollers & Zeballos' doubles win, the fan experience on site (ticket prices, Armstrong vs Ashe, presidential delays), and our Players of the Fortnight. Plus, what's next on the WTA and ATP tours with Guadalajara, São Paulo, and the Davis Cup tie in Delray Beach.CHAPTERS00:00 Grand Slam Season Reflection Intro02:29 Men's Doubles Final Heartbreak07:08 Women's Singles Final Analysis17:16 The Future of Women's Tennis23:19 Men's Singles Final Recap36:56 Tournament Review: Highlights and Lowlights01:08:34 Upcoming Tournaments and Player Of the Fortnight01:13:11 Player of the Fortnight: Celebrating Achievements01:17:44 Outro

The second part of our US Open Threads series dives into the fashion highs, lows, and surprises of the 2025 US Openwith Ian Mondul of 40 Love. Anastasia and Ian go through their faves (Musetti, Sabalenka, Venus, Townsend, Sinner/Alcaraz), the biggest misses (Draper's Vuori debut, Tiafoe's tiger stripes, Adidas Y-3 backlash), plus surprises like Paolini's shimmering ASICS dress and doubles teams turning out in matching kits.We wrap with overall takes on the rise of individuality in tennis fashion, why women's kits outshone men's, and the colors that ruled the Open: red and purple.

Anastasia and Nick break down all the semifinal action from the US Open and set the stage for finals weekend. We cover Sabalenka's battle with Pegula, Anisimova's win over Osaka, Alcaraz's straight-sets victory over Djokovic, and Sinner's strong run past Felix Auger-Aliassime. Plus: doubles storylines, including Dabrowski & Routliffe's win and Salisbury & Skupski's historic run.We close with previews of the women's final — Aryna Sabalenka vs Amanda Anisimova — and the blockbuster men's final: Jannik Sinner vs Carlos Alcaraz for the trophy and the No. 1 ranking.CHAPTERS00:00 Introduction and New Setups01:57 Semifinals Recap03:54 Aryna Sabalenka v Jessica Pegula10:44 Amanda Anisimova V Naomi Osaka22:38 Men's Semi-Finals: Djokovic vs. Alcaraz37:57 Jannik Sinner V Felix Auger Aliassime48:56 Women's Double Final Recap & Men's Doubles Final Preview53:52 Men's Doubles Final Preview: British Hopes58:16 Finals Preview58:37 Women's Final Preview: Sabalenka vs. Anisimova01:05:28 Men's Final Preview: Sinner vs. Alcaraz01:08:56 Thank you and OutroAlso We have Merch!!!Ground Pass Shop - https://www.groundpasspodcast.com/ground-pass-shop

In Part 1 of our US Open Threads series, Anastasia is joined by journalist Jessica Schiffer (Hard Court) to explore how tennis and high fashion are becoming inseparable. From luxury house partnerships (Gucci/Sinner, LV/Alcaraz, Miu Miu/Coco, Burberry/Tommy) to Jack Draper's brand shift, the rise of WAG-fronted campaigns, and jewelry deals, we break down what feels authentic—and what doesn't. We also gush over Lorenzo Musetti's Bottega era and take a victory lap for Venus Williams's US Open looks (Khaite, Phillip Lim, Who Decides War) including her Althea Gibson nod and that iconic racquet bag. Plus: why the ATP is formalizing style with pre-Open styling suites, and what we want next for the WTA.Part 2—our brand-by-brand Hits & Misses—is up next.—Guest: Jessica Schiffer, founder of Hard Court, the weekly tennis style/business newsletter.Watch the video version on YouTube to see the looks we reference.Chapters00:00 Intro01:29 Who is Jessica Schiffer of Hard Court06:00 Jack Drapers new Deal07:31 Brand Partnerships and Player Identity09:21 The Rise of WAGs in Tennis12:43 Luxury Brands and Tennis Collaborations19:57 Jewelry Trends in Tennis Fashion24:31 The Allure of Lorenzo Musetti28:31 Venus Williams: A Fashion Icon at the US Open35:37 ATP's Fashion Marketing Initiative40:19 WTA's Fashion Opportunities and Challenges44:25 OutroSubscribe to Ground Pass for more: on-site stories, guides, and style talk.Part 2 (Hits & Misses) drops next.Also We have Merch!!!Ground Pass Shop - https://www.groundpasspodcast.com/ground-pass-shop

The US Open semifinals are here, and Ground Pass has you covered. Anastasia is joined by Mitch Michals to break down the quarterfinals and preview tonight's semifinals in New York.They dive into:Jannik Sinner's unstoppable form and Felix Auger-Aliassime's nervy four-set battleDjokovic vs. Fritz and the infamous headband momentAlcaraz's locked-in run to the semisNaomi Osaka vs. Amanda Anisimova: a redemption story on the biggest stageJessica Pegula steady as ever, Sabalenka chasing her first slam of the yearA look ahead at the women's doubles final featuring Taylor Townsend & Katerina SiniakovaThe semifinal lineup is set — and it's a movie.Chapters00:00 Quarterfinal Recap and Semifinals Preview02:51 Men's Quater finals Recap03:00 Jannik Sinner V Lorenzo Musetti06:26 Felix Auger Aliassime v Alex De Minaur11:10 Taylor Fritz V Novak Djokovic16:47 Carlos Alcaraz V Jiri Lecheka21:50 Women's Quaterfinal recap - Sabalenka walkover26:56 Osaka v Muchova31:46 Anisimova v Swiatek37:48 Semi Final Preview - Womens43:43 Semi Final Preview - Men49:17 Women's Doubles Final Preview52:27 OutroAlso We have Merch!!!Ground Pass Shop - https://www.groundpasspodcast.com/ground-pass-shop

Anastasia and Nick take you through all the stories from Rounds 3 & 4 of the US Open 2025. From Taylor Townsend's showdown with Barbora Krejčíková to Naomi Osaka's big night against Coco Gauff, plus Felix Auger-Aliassime's run and Jannik Sinner lighting up Ashe. We also get into doubles, the new virtual queue, and set up the quarterfinal matches.Chapters:0:00 – Intro2:48 – Calm after the storm4:05 – Taylor Townsend v Barbora Krejčíková14:28 – US Open or Czech Open20:20 – Naomi Osaka26:14 – Coco Gauff31:01 – Felix Auger-Aliassime38:07 – Jannik Sinner/Ashe51:24 – Virtual queue55:18 – Doubles58:44 – Quarterfinal matches1:06:26 – ConclusionsAlso We have Merch!!!Links:Taylor Townsends Press Conference - https://youtu.be/JGet76nPxfA?si=wznqOByRTkJHLcps Ground Pass Shop - https://www.groundpasspodcast.com/ground-pass-shop

Anastasia and Nick are back on Ground Pass with a full roundup of Rounds 1 and 2 at the US Open. From Taylor Townsend's fiery clash with Jelena Ostapenko, to Venus Williams lighting up the night session, to Emma Raducanu's return and Carlos Alcaraz cruising into form — we break down the biggest wins, surprises, and early exits shaping the tournament.Jack On the line's interview with Gavin McMillian - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hx8UvG5i62Also We have Merch!!!Links:Taylor Townsends Press Conference - https://youtu.be/JGet76nPxfA?si=wznqOByRTkJHLcps Ground Pass Shop - https://www.groundpasspodcast.com/ground-pass-shop

Its the start of the middle weekend at the US Open and the grounds are littered with doubles. Doubles here there and everywhere. If you are trying to navigate the teams and who to follow we got you covered.From favorites Taylor Townsend and Katerina Siniakova to sleepers like Panova/Guo. And even the Legend Venus Williams is in the mix.On the mens side is a very British affair with Salisbury/Skupski trying to make a run and even THE MARCUS WILLIS is in the draw.Anastasia is joined my Will Boucek of @thetennistribe to break it all down.Chapters:Introduction - 00:00Doubles vibes at the US Open - 01:58Womens Doubles - 05:15Mens Doubles - 16:54How to fix Doubles - 29:00Will Boucek:Website - https://thetennistribe.com/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thetennistribe/Also We have Merch!!!Links:Taylor Townsends Press Conference - https://youtu.be/JGet76nPxfA?si=wznqOByRTkJHLcps Ground Pass Shop - https://www.groundpasspodcast.com/ground-pass-shop

Alex Eala rise like a phoenix, Daniil Medvedev crashes and burns, Venus Williams' reminds us of her greatness and Carlos Alcaraz cuts his hair. These are the Match Stories that caught our attention in round 1 of the US OpenChapters00:00 - Intro00:17 - Alex Eala07:46 - Daniil Medvedev16:59 - Venus Williams20:14 - Coco Gauff23:45 - Gael Monfils25:27 - Carlos Alcaraz27:00 - OutroWE HAVE MERCH!!!Shop now for the Founder's Discount till August 30th - https://www.groundpasspodcast.com/ground-pass-shopSubscribe to Our Substack at - https://groundpass.substack.comVisit Our Website at - www.groundpasspodcast.comEmail us at - groundpasspodcast@gmail.comFollow us for daily updates on Social:Threads: https://www.threads.net/@ground_passBlue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/groundpass.bsky.socialInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ground_passYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@GroundPassTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@groundpasspodcastX: https://x.com/groundpasspodPodcast Theme by Breakmaster Cylinder Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode of Ground Pass, Anastasia is joined by Eugene and Lucy from Black Spin Global to break down Serena Williams' surprise appearance at Maria Sharapova's Hall of Fame induction. The conversation dives into the history and growth of the Black Spin Global platform, and the players of color to keep an eye on at this year's US Open.At Ground Pass, we love shining a light on the people in the tennis media space doing great work—and Eugene and Lucy are two of the very best.✨ Find Black Spin Global here:YouTube – https://youtube.com/@blackspinglobal?si=LK9ENUdcQVgjVJXqInstagram – https://www.instagram.com/blackspinglobal?igsh=b2Nta3NneHhrdGZnX – https://x.com/blackspinglobal?s=21&t=34KFRaMxpc-93mq_1EOI7AWE HAVE MERCH!!!Shop now for the Founder's Discount till August 30th - https://www.groundpasspodcast.com/ground-pass-shopSubscribe to Our Substack at - https://groundpass.substack.comVisit Our Website at - www.groundpasspodcast.comEmail us at - groundpasspodcast@gmail.comFollow us for daily updates on Social:Threads: https://www.threads.net/@ground_passBlue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/groundpass.bsky.socialInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ground_passYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@GroundPassTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@groundpasspodcastX: https://x.com/groundpasspod Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

When you do something twice, it becomes a tradition… right? Right?!We're back on the grounds of the US Open for our 2nd annual preview episode with Coach B — Brian Bradley. He may live in Los Angeles, but as a born-and-raised New Yorker, the Open is always a homecoming.Anastasia and Coach B chat about:The unique energy of Fan WeekQualifiers to keep on your radarThe first-round matches that deserve a spot on your watch listIf you tuned in last year, you know how much fun this is. If not, consider this your perfect warm-up for the last Grand Slam of the season.Links: Coach B on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/coachbtv?igsh=bmVsN216NDAzZnd1 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The summer swing is heating up—literally. Anastasia recaps the finals of the Cincinnati Open, where Iga Swiatek battled Jasmine Paolini for the women's title and Jannik Sinner faced off against Carlos Alcaraz in yet another chapter of their growing rivalry.But this episode isn't just about the scorelines. Anastasia dives into the best and worst moments from a week that had it all:

Recorded from the grounds of the Cincinnati Open, this mini pod recaps the action from Canada and the first few days in Cincy. We celebrate Ben Shelton and Victoria Mboko's big wins, Naomi Osaka's impressive run, and two standout doubles finals in Montreal and Toronto. Plus, we share updates from the Cincinnati Open so far, including press conference moments with Coco Gauff and Maria Sakkari. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on Ground Pass, Anastasia and Nick are back with a full-length episode packed with tennis storylines from the Canadian Open and a preview of what's ahead in Cincinnati. We break down Naomi Osaka's new coaching setup, Amanda Anisimova's bounce-back, and why Victoria Mboko's win over Coco Gauff was absolute cinema. Plus, a big rant on why Alexei Popyrin's 2024 Canada title deserves more respect, doubles teams you should be watching, and a lot of dispatch updates ahead of our on-site coverage at the Cincinnati Open. Also, the US Open has… a dating show?? We've got thoughts.Don't forget to follow us on Substack for our Ground Pass On Site series from Cincinnati, and hit up our new YouTube Memberships to fuel Anastasia's coffee habit.LinksMeet The Player: Victoria Mboko: https://youtu.be/aYGYLxe0Nl4?si=5ilXPw5Dg04rLILr Cincinnati Open Guide: https://www.groundpasspodcast.com/tournament-guides/ground-pass-tournament-guide-cincinnati-openServed Iga interview: https://youtu.be/AGs3pPCMh3c?si=Q0PCAToRGo0hBb1MChapters00:00 Welcome Back to Ground Pass03:40 Canadian Open - the two city tournament13:54 The Tennis In Canada - WTA30:57 The Tennis in Canada - ATP43:10 Cincinnati Open Preview53:00 YouTube Memberships and Community Engagement56:22 The US Open Dating Show Discussion01:04:54 Player of the Fortnight: Victoria Mboko01:06:51 Player of the Fortnight: Alexei Popyrin01:11:49 Closing Thoughts and Future EpisodesSubscribe to Our Substack at - https://groundpass.substack.comVisit Our Website at - www.groundpasspodcast.comEmail us at - groundpasspodcast@gmail.comFollow us for daily updates on Social:Threads: https://www.threads.net/@ground_passBlue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/groundpass.bsky.socialInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ground_passYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@GroundPassTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@groundpasspodcastX: https://x.com/groundpasspodPodcast Theme by Breakmaster Cylinder Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Washington Post sports writer Ava Wallace joins Anastasia from Ground Pass to unpack the 2025 Citi Open. From Venus Williams' joyful return to the pro tennis tour, to Leylah Fernandez's run to the final, to a finals lineup nobody predicted — this is a full, unfiltered recap of one of the most vibrant tournaments on the U.S. summer swing.Topics include:– Venus' comeback and her impact on the sport– The challenge of playing at home for Hailey Baptiste & Frances Tiafoe– Why the Citi Open crowds are the best in tennis– A closer look at Kalinskaya, De Minaur, and Corentin Moutet– The burnout problem with the tour schedule– What makes DC such a special stop on the tennis calendarPlus: a quick look ahead to the Canadian Masters and the road to the US Open.Chapters00:00 Intro01:00 The Citi Open - The Heat , Humidity and Fans04:51 Venus Williams: The Joy of Playing Tennis Again19:08 The Tennis and The Players at the Citi Open30:23 Whats Next on Tour

In this solo mini pod, Nick recaps the week in tennis while Anastasia is on-site at the Citi Open. We break down the winners across ATP and WTA clay events, including Shapovalov's hard-court return in Los Cabos. Plus, we dive into important injury news from Ons Jabeur and Zheng Qinwen, and look ahead to what's shaping up to be an electric week in Washington DC. Expect doubles drama, wild card legends, and a stacked women's field.CHAPTERS00:00 Weekly Tennis Update: Highlights and Events02:54 ATP Updates06:13 WTA Updates08:31 Injury Updates and Player Withdrawals11:41 Looking Ahead: Upcoming Tournaments15:31 Excitement at the Washington Open21:20 Final Thoughts and Future Prospects

We're back with our full Wimbledon 2025 recap! Iga Swiatek drops a double bagel in the women's final, Jannik Sinner wins his first Slam—and the new era of tennis is officially here. We unpack both finals, the best and worst moments from the tournament, and why this felt like a true generational handoff. Plus, we take you inside the Newport Open, talk about Bill Ackman's infamous doubles wildcard, and preview the absolutely stacked Citi Open. Our Players of the Fortnight: Caty McNally and Eliot Spizzirri. Let's go.

We're down to the final four—now two! Anastasia and Nick recap the Wimbledon 2025 semifinals and preview a finals weekend filled with storyline-rich matchups: Amanda Anisimova's comeback arc continues after her stunner against Aryna Sabalenka, while Iga Swiatek dismantles Belinda Bencic with the kind of form that wins majors.On the men's side, Carlos Alcaraz squeezes past Taylor Fritz, and Jannik Sinner breezes past an injured Novak Djokovic in a match that felt like watching Novak 2.0 take over the baton. We also break down a wild doubles semifinal (shoutout to Hijikata & Pèll!), toast to Arthur Ashe's legacy, and explain why heading to smaller tourneys like Newport is still a tennis fan's best move.This one's packed. Let's get into it.CHAPTERS00:00 Intro02:38 Semifinals recap37:32 Newport Tournament Insights42:53 Final's Preview47:35 The Rise of American Women's Tennis50:08 Outro

Wimbledon Round 4 delivered high drama—and heartbreak. In this episode, Anastasia and Nick unpack a brutal day of tennis headlined by Grigor Dimitrov's devastating injury while leading Jannik Sinner. They also dive into standout performances from Mirra Andreeva, Iga Swiatek, and Ben Shelton, the rise of Flavio Cobolli, and the unexpected power of listening to matches on the radio. Plus, a quick dispatch from the Hall of Fame Open in Newport and the latest on electronic line calling drama. Sports is cruel—but we're still watching.Chapters00:00 Intro01:42 Round 4 wrap up28:13 Looking ahead to the quaterfinals33:53 Outro

NOTE: Said Aryna was the only player left in the top 11 but meant in her section of the draw not the whole tournament. She is the only player left in the top ten in the top half of the draw. The seeds keep falling, the storylines keep building, and Ground Pass is here to break it all down. Anastasia is joined by tennis broadcaster Mitch Michals to unpack Round 3 of Wimbledon 2025—including the end of Barbora Krejcikova's title defense, Emma Raducanu's battle with Aryna Sabalenka, and the rising tide of British players led by Sonay Kartal and Cam Norrie.We talk about Hailey Baptiste's breakout summer, Naomi Osaka's emotional post-match, and the real reasons why grass court season leads to all this unpredictability. Plus: Iga's statement victory, and why the Lost Boys generation may never catch up.Catch up before the round of 16 kicks off.

Here's to all the seeds we lost in Round 2. Wimbledon 2025 is fully in its unpredictable era, and Ground Pass is here for every twist.In this episode, Anastasia recaps the standout moments from Day 3 and Round 2—including big breakthroughs, major exits, and a little tennis history in the making.Highlights include: