Podcast appearances and mentions of karl budge

Today's guest is a man who knows a thing or two about putting a world class event on. Karl Budge is the man who made the ASB Classic a massive success, and an award-winning event, luring in massive names like Serena and Venus Williams. How he got them to come is absolutely fascinating! Karl played a huge role in the success of the amazing Sail GP event in Ōtautahi last year - and has worked on a number of global sporting events. All this from a kid that left school at 16, because he was a 'dreamer" and his dreams didn't quite work at school. A really really insightful conversation!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today for NZ Sporting History we speak to the man who, for many years, was responsible for bringing some of the biggest names in tennis to Auckland. Karl Budge, until recently, was the ASB Classic Tournament director.

Piney catches up with Sail GP's chief commercial officer and head of the Sail GP event in Lyttleton, Karl Budge, to see how the preparations for the event are coming along. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Karl Budge, Chief Commercial Officer for Sail GP NZ joined the program, to preview the Sydney league of the series. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The amazing Kiwi Karl Budge joins Staffy to discuss the amazing progress of one of the World's most exciting events!

Interest in the SailGP series is looking very strong. Tickets for the inaugural New Zealand Grand Prix went on sale yesterday, as of this morning, there's only 300 left. The event comes to Christchurch in March next year - and event director Karl Budge joined Tim Dower. LISTEN ABOVE  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's time for our View from the Top, this morning it's Karl Budge, Chief Commercial officer of the New Zealand SailGP team.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Karl Budge doesn't purport to be much of a sailor, but he is one of this country's leading event organisers having previously turned the ASB Classic into one of the world's best tennis tournaments. He consistently attracted some of the world's top tennis players to this country and now he's looking to sprinkle his magic dust on the New Zealand leg of SailGP. Karl talks about why he got involved in SailGP and what his vision is for the New Zealand legs that will be held in alternating years between Christchurch and Auckland. He also talks about what the fan experience is like at SailGP events around the world. Talk inevitably turned to tennis and what tricks he used to lure players like Serena and Venus Williams, Ana Ivanovic and Maria Sharapova to these shores. He also talks about the time he gave Serena a piece of his mind after a less than inspiring performance. But she still came back the following year. Karl delves into his background that saw him leave school at 16 only to find himself working at the WTA and Manchester United, but also turn down job opportunities with Formula 1, Manchester City and the NFL. This is a slightly different episode of Broad Reach Radio, but a good way to mark the 50th podcast.

New Zealand’s last hopes of success in the sailing GP were dashed by a costly accident in yesterday’s final in San Francisco. Now fans are turning their attention to Thursday’s America’s cup announcement with unconfirmed reports out of Spain that it could be held in Barcelona.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

New Zealand head of event and commercial director for SailGP, Karl Budge, catches up with Piney before the San Francisco leg of SailGP. LISTEN ABOVE 

Jason Pine chats to SailGP Commercial Director Karl Budge about how the event has grown in its second season and why sports fans should be excited for the competition's future.

Sail GP Head of New Zealand event Karl Budge joined the show to discuss the new four-year deal, which will see Auckland and Christchurch alternate hosting the event each year.LISTEN ABOVE

Staffy chats to Karl Budge from SailGP after the cancellation of the event in January after a lack of MIQ spots

While the All Blacks and Black Ferns have locked in their spots in MIQ, the wind has gone out of the sails of SailGP. The international sailing regatta was headed for Lyttelton in January, but they have been denied managed isolation spots. Eight teams were coming, including one headed up by Peter Burling and Blair Tuke. Karl Budge is the New Zealand commercial director and says with no MIQ the event cannot come here in January.  

Tournament organisers have confirmed today that the ASB Classic, traditionally held in the first two weeks of the calendar year, will not be going ahead in 2022 due to Covid-19 restrictions.In October last year, the 2021 event was cancelled thanks in large part to the Covid-19 pandemic. Earlier this year tournament director Karl Budge stepped down after nine years in the role. A replacement has yet to be named four months after Budge left.The international tennis schedule has gone back to its pre-Covid calendar this year with most, if not all tournaments, back on in 2021.Organisers have been working through a range of scenarios in hopes that a tournament would be possible in January, however due to immigration requirements for the over 250 athletes, officials and staff that would be required to travel to New Zealand for the event, a positive outcome was not possible.Tennis Auckland board chair Simon Vannini was disappointed that the ASB Classic is not able to return in 2022, but is confident tennis in New Zealand won't suffer."We are incredibly disappointed that we won't be able to bring the ASB Classic back to Auckland this summer, but current immigration and quarantine requirements mean it's just not feasible," Vannini said."We are working closely with Tennis NZ on some alternative ideas that we think will keep tennis fans excited, and we will continue to ensure tennis remains one of New Zealand's favourite sports" said Vannini."We'd like to thank our family of sponsors for their ongoing support of the ASB Classic, and who have always been encouraging of our efforts to deliver one of New Zealand's favourite events. We love the ASB Classic as much as our fans do, and we'll keep working to bring the ASB Classic back to fans in 2023."The last ASB Classic women's edition in 2020 was won by 23-time grand slam winner Serena Williams while Frenchman Ugo Humbert took out the men's event.Up to eight of the world's top 10 women's tennis players were being lined up to star at this year's event before it was cancelled in October.Plans were made to hold the 2021 event within a tournament bubble but it wasn't approved by the Government."We understand the pressures that are on Government right now to keep New Zealand safe and protect the gains that we've made," Budge wrote in a Q and A sent to sponsors and suppliers at the time."Whilst we are obviously disappointed, we have learnt to focus on the things that we have control over. This is not one of those and we now need to focus on how we can work with our supporters to come back stronger.

Serena Williams says she can identify with anxiety regarding news conference scrutiny, and has experienced it frequently after matches."Many of them I've been into where I've been -- very difficult to walk in in those moments," she said. "But you know, it made me stronger."Williams made her comments in a post-match news conference following her first-round victory Monday at the French Open. She spoke hours after four-time Grand Slam champion Naomi Osaka withdrew  from the tournament, saying in a statement that she has dealt with long bouts of depression since winning a tumultuous final against Williams in the 2018 U.S. Open.Last week Osaka said she would not participate in the standard post-match news conferences during Roland Garros, citing her decision as a mental health matter because media questions can create self-doubt."I feel for Naomi," Williams said. "Not everyone is the same. I'm thick. Other people are thin. Everyone is different and everyone handles things differently."You just have to let her handle it the way she wants to and the best way she thinks she can. That's the only thing I can say: I think she is doing the best she can."Few athletes have been under the media spotlight like Williams, 39, who is chasing a record-tying 24th Grand Slam singles title. When the glare becomes too intense, she said, it's important to reach out for support."You really have to step forward and make an effort, just as in anything, and say, 'I need help with A, B, C and D,' and talk to someone. I think that's so important to have a sounding board, whether it's someone at the WTA, or someone in your life, or maybe it's someone you talk to on a weekly basis."I've been in that position too, and I've definitely had opportunities to talk to people and just get things off my chest that I can't necessarily talk about to anyone in my family or anyone I know."There were moments of anxiety for Williams even in a first-round victory that will be quickly forgotten. She took a spill on the clay and saved two set points before eliminating Irina-Camelia Begu 7-6 (6), 6-2 under the lights during the first scheduled night session in tournament history.Williams struggled with her serve but played aggressively, such as when she raced forward facing a set point to hit a risky swinging volley for a winner."I did not want to lose that first set," she said.Williams improved to 77-1 in first-round Slam matches. The loss came in Paris in 2012.

Karl Budge oversaw the ASB Classic from 2012, building it into one of the best on the pro circuit and bringing some of the greatest athletes in the world to New Zealand. During his career he’s held senior roles for some of the World’s highest profile rights holders and brands. And has just been announced as event director of the much-anticipated SailGP series, with the NZ Grand Prix being held in Christchurch next year.  He was Simon Barnett and Phil Gifford's guest for this week's Six and a Song.LISTEN ABOVE  

RNZ's Extra Time looks at the report into gymnastics in New Zealand which identified a culture of fear and retribution and led to the national body apologising to anyone who's been harmed as a result. Abusive coaches, body image issues, and children left in tears, were among the findings of the report into the culture of the sport - reiterating concerns raised in the media last year. Joining Bridget Tunnicliffe on RNZ's Extra Time this week to discuss the report are RNZ sports journalist Felicity Reid and Stuffs Zoe George. We also run the rule over experimental laws being introduced when Super Rugby Aotearoa kicks off at the end of the month. And it's game set match for Karl Budge, the outgoing tournament director of the ASB Tennis Classic.

RNZ's Extra Time looks at the report into gymnastics in New Zealand which identified a culture of fear and retribution and led to the national body apologising to anyone who's been harmed as a result. Abusive coaches, body image issues, and children left in tears, were among the findings of the report into the culture of the sport - reiterating concerns raised in the media last year. Joining Bridget Tunnicliffe on RNZ's Extra Time this week to discuss the report are RNZ sports journalist Felicity Reid and Stuffs Zoe George. We also run the rule over experimental laws being introduced when Super Rugby Aotearoa kicks off at the end of the month. And it's game set match for Karl Budge, the outgoing tournament director of the ASB Tennis Classic.

The architect of the recent success of our biggest tennis tournament is eyeing other sports opportunities after announcing he's moving on from the ASB classic. Karl Budge has been the tournament director for 9 years and is credited with attracting big international names including Venus and Serena Williams and Naomi Osaka. Covid-19 caused the cancellation of this year's classic after Budge was unable to find a way through border closures and isolation and quarantine requirements and the uncertainty of lockdowns. Lisa Owen asked him if he could have got the tournament across the line with more government support.

Sympathy from a New Zealand tennis tournament director, for the Australian Open tennis players facing quarantine across the ditch.Seventy-two players are now in hard quarantine and unable to train outside their hotel rooms for 14 days,  after positive Covid-19 tests on tournament charter flights.Authorities have ruled out giving them an exemption from the strict isolation rules.But Karl Budge, the director of Auckland's ASB Tennis Tournament, told Kerre McIvor  they're in a different situation from other incoming travellers."Players are right to be concerned about going from two weeks confined in their hotel room, to playing a five-hour match in 40-plus temperatures."This year's ASB Classic in Auckland was cancelled, due to the uncertainty around Covid 19.Budge says he doesn't regret cancelling the tournament."The volume of uncertainty, with the new strains would have made lot extremely challenging, along with not having the revenue of a Grand Slam tournament."LISTEN ABOVE

A very unfamiliar start to 2021 for ASB Classic director Karl Budge.This time of year typically marks the start of the women's draw at the tennis tournament, and a week before the men's one gets underway.But in October - due to Covid-related concerns - the event had to be cancelled for 2021, ridding New Zealand of its premier tennis event.Budge admitted to Elliot Smith it hurts."It's obviously been a tough year for a lot of people in our industry. A lot of great events weren't able to go ahead, but we've been really buoyed by the support we've had."LISTEN ABOVE

There is utter disappointment with the cancellation of the 2021 ASB Classic.New Zealand's premier women's and men's tennis tournaments, hosted in Auckland, won't go ahead because of Covid-19.The announcement was made this yesterday afternoon, forcing tournament director Karl Budge to let go of New Zealand's premier tennis event thanks in large part to the Covid-19 pandemic.It is the first time in the event's history it will not go ahead.Listen to the audio above as Kiwi Tennis player Michael Venus reacts to the news with Tim Dower.

Covid has claimed a key fixture of the New Zealand summer of sport. The 2021 ASB tennis Classic, due to be played in Auckland in January, has been cancelled due to the complexities of running a tournament amid the global pandemic. Tournament director Karl Budge told sports reporter Brenton Vannisselroy it's an incredibly sad day.

ASB Classic director Karl Budge has called for sporting institutions to use Covid-19 as an opportunity to reconsider how sports is delivered to the public.Writing in the NZ Herald, he says that the virus "has highlighted the flaws that have existed for some time within the sports sector"."That model was turned upside down during this time, and if we don't 'pivot', no government relief package will change the fact it remains a fundamentally flawed and volatile business model coming out of Covid-19. It is broken."Budge joined D'Arcy Waldegrave to discuss what can be done differently and his solutions to fix the broken model.LISTEN ABOVE

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Karl Budge is a strategic sports leader who has played a key role building the ASB Classic, WTA, Australian Open and FIFA brands globally.Karl is about to bring one of the most exciting surf events New Zealand has ever had, the Corona Piha Pro.I know you will enjoy this interview, so be sure to subscribe and share this podcast with your network.Stay awesomeEli SmitFounder & HostGround Breaking Podcast See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

ASB Classic tournament director Karl Budge says the future of the Auckland women's event is assured, even if a mooted WTA teams tournament held in the same week comes to fruition.After the success of the ATP Cup this week, there has been support from several leading players for an equivalent event on the female side — something that would have significant implications for the Auckland tournament.ASB Classic tournament director Karl Budge. Photo / GettyBudge has been included in initial discussions about the concept with the WTA and Tennis Australia, but says there are a lot of hurdles to overcome, and even if it does happen, it won't be for at least three years."There have been initial conversations with [WTA CEO] Steve Simon and Tennis Australia."There is a lot of water to go under the bridge. Obviously it gets attention when it is in the media, but it definitely won't happen next year, and I can't see it the year after either. It took a long time for the ATP Cup to get anywhere near the position it is in now."Budge points out there are a lot of things to work through."For a start there would need to be equal prizemoney; so can they [Tennis Australia] make a [combined] $25 million tournament work?," he asked."And if it gets any traction, what is our preference? Would we want to be the other alternative [tournament] that week? Would we want to be part of it as a host city? Are we wanting to swap weeks? There is a heap of different options that we could explore and I want to make sure that we are part of the discussion."The ATP Cup has involved 24 national teams, playing in Sydney, Brisbane and Perth, with the final played today in Sydney. Although there has been some teething issues, it has been well received by players and fans. It has meant changes to the calendar, with the men's draw in Brisbane and the Hopman Cup and ATP 250 event in Pune no longer staged, although Doha has continued in the same week.It has also caused some controversy, as the women's matches at the Brisbane International were relegated to outside courts until Thursday, to accommodate the men playing at the same venue, prompting Maria Sharapova to say their tournament felt like a "second-tier" event.However there are significant roadblocks for the proposed WTA Cup, not least financially. The ATP Cup is a US$15 million commitment, which would need to be matched for a female event. It would also require co-operation from the two tours which is not necessarily a given, and the make-up of teams would be more difficult, given the differing concentration of talent on the women's tour. Any plans would have to be ratified by player and tournament councils, and find agreement over the mechanics of entry, ranking points and prizemoney."We all understand it would be an amazing thing to have a teams event in guys and girls, but if that is reality, I'm not sure," said Budge. "I'm not sure it is something that is on the ATP's radar at the moment. But we are open-minded."I've heard of a lot of proposals come and go over the years. Whatever happens, our event will continue. We own the licence, we own the sanction. It's what we do with it that's up to us. We are part of the conversation." 

Auckland's ASB Classic is a minnow of tennis tournaments - so how does director Karl Budge lure some of the biggest names in the business to the end of the earth? 

Martin Devlin chats to ASB Classic Tournament Director Karl Budge about how he goes about trying to lure some of the best tennis players in the world to Auckland year in year out.  

Italian world number 12 Fabio Fognini has been added to the line-up for this summer's ASB men's Classic which will feature at least five players ranked in the top 20.The 32-year-old joins the already announced world number five Russian Daniil Medvedev, 15th ranked Canadian Denis Shapovalov, 17th ranked Russian Karen Khachanov and two times former champion American John Isner at 19.Fognini made the quarter-finals in Auckland this year and went on to claim his first ATP Masters 1000 title in Monte Carlo in April. He reached a career high ranking of 9 in July.Medvedev will be the star billing, appearing in Auckland for the first time after an incredible season where he reached his maiden Grand Slam final at the US Open after capturing his first Masters 1000 title in Cincinnati during his run of six straight finals. He also won the Shanghai Masters in October, the St Petersburg Open in his native Russia and the Sofia Open in Bulgaria.Only seven of the top 20 have entered either Auckland or the new ATP tournament in Adelaide which reveals its player line up later today. Five of them are in Auckland but it's understood that event has attracted 16-time grand slam winner Novak Djokovic.Adelaide being a new tournament having replaced the tour event in Sydney, has provided stiff competition for ASB Classic tournament director Karl Budge with a majority of the players ranked between 20 and 40 opting to play there.The likes of this year's semifinalist Jan-Lennard Struff and quarter-finalist Taylor Fritz have both entered Adelaide however Budge does have the extra carrot of having five wildcards (up from three) up his sleeve which Adelaide doesn't.Daniil Medvedev stormed into the US Open final. Photo / APThis is due to the new US$15million ATP Cup launching across the Tasman in Brisbane, Perth and Sydney on January 3.The 10-day tournament features 24 teams playing in Groups of four over the first six days before quarters-finals in Sydney on the Thursday before the ASB men's Classic. 16 teams will be eliminated by Wednesday meaning some players who get knocked out early are likely to want a wildcard to play in Auckland.Budge received dispensation from the ATP for the additional wildcards which Adelaide didn't due in part to the logistics of players making late decisions for transtasman travel.It opens up the possibility players of the ilk of Dominic Thiem, Roberto Bautista Agut, Kei Nishikori and Diego Schwartzman becoming available almost at the last minute.Regardless the 17 strong line up already assembled is as competitive as ever such is the depth on the ATP Tour. Auckland has picked up enigmatic Frenchman Benoit Paire who has had an outstanding season capturing two ATP titles and is ranked 24 in the world.There are seven players who have competed in the Next Gen ATP Finals during their career. Among them are top 20 stars Medvedev, Khachanov and Shapovalov while American Frances Tiafoe, Norway's Casper Ruud and Frenchman Ugo Humbert all played in Milan last month and are tipped to have big futures.Four of the top five ranked players in the field have cracked the top 10 in the rankings within the past two years and Fognini, Khachanov and Isner have 28 tour level titles between them.This year's runner up ex-Kiwi Cameron Norrie, ranked 53, returns but defending champion Tennys Sandgren will need a wildcard or enter qualifying as the American ranked 68 is entered but as the fourth alternate with the cut off for main draw acceptances being 62.Veteran Spaniard Feliciano Lopez is the last direct acceptance and the 38-year-old will be a popular addition to the tournament. He has been as high as 12 in the world and has won seven ATP singles titles.Former champion German Philip Kohlschreiber, a semifinalist this year is another who has missed out on the main draw and will need either a wildcard or enter qualifying.The ASB men's Classic starts on Monday January 13 with the final on Saturday 18, two day...

Karl Budge is here with the ASB Open’s Best Field Ever!, Is it too late to say “you’re gonna get it now!” when someone’s got you out 7 times, should we follow Mehrts advice and GTFOSanzaar? and we have a Rambler for the ages!

@StafNZ@TAB_Sport
@JimDolanSport
@ASB_Classic


Canadian star Bianca Andreescu has confirmed she'll be returning to the ASB Classic next January after impressing in her maiden appearance earlier this year.The 19-year-old has been the form player of 2019 having a staggering 89 percent win record, the best of any player on the WTA Tour, capturing three titles including the biggest event of the year, the 'Desert Slam' in Indian Wells, and her home tournament, the Rogers Cup in Toronto.Andreescu has not lost a match against a Top 10 player, beating six of the world's best on her rise through the rankings including Caroline Wozniacki, Elina Svitolina, Angelique Kerber, Kiki Bertens, Karolina Pliskova and Serena Williams.She plays in the US Open quarter-finals tomorrow against Elise Mertens aiming for her first ever semifinal appearance at a grand slam.Ranked 152 in the world when she arrived in Auckland last December, the Canadian was forced to make her way into the ASB Classic through qualifying. The heavy-hitting teenager has now reached a career high of world number nine on the live rankings and is forecast to go higher by year's end.Her achievements are even more awe-inspiring considering she missed the entire grass court season with a shoulder injury and has only played nine tournaments this year.2019 started with a giant-killing run at the 2019 ASB Classic where she took out top seed Wozniacki, sixth seed Venus Williams as well as third seed Su-Wei Hseih to reach her maiden WTA Tour singles final.She was eventually overcome by defending champion Julia Goerges in a three-set match that will be remembered by all those that were glued to their seats.The teenager can't wait to return."It all started in Auckland for me. I had high expectations starting the season but to beat Caroline (Wozniacki) and Venus (Williams) in my first week was unbelievable."It has just been such an amazing year. I feel really comfortable with my game at the moment and for me, that really did start in Auckland."I can't wait to get back. It is such a nice way to start the season and who knows, maybe I can go one better," said Andreescu.ASB Classic Tournament Director Karl Budge is thrilled to secure one of the most sought-after signatures in the sport."Bianca has been a revelation this year. She has risen well over 100 spots to now be in the top ten and has a record of 41 and 4 for the season (41 match wins to just four losses). That really is quite staggering. She has been the best play on tour this year and along with Serena, is an unreal start to our 2020 fields."Off the back of their dominant displays at the US Open, Andreescu and Serena Williams will vie for the top seed position for January's showpiece with Andreescu currently in eighth and Williams 10th on the Year End Race."We know there is still a lot more to come on both our Men's and Women's fields. This is a great start and more announcements will be made over the coming weeks" continued Budge.Tickets for the ASB Classic go on general release to the public today from noon.The ASB Classic will span for two weeks, with Women's Week kicking off on Monday 6 January by Men's Week from Monday 13 through to Saturday 18 January 2020.

Lightning, it seems, does strike twice.Before the events of Tuesday morning, the chances of Serena Williams being seen on a tennis court again in New Zealand felt pretty remote.As a scenario, it appeared to be in the impossible to imagine category, like John Mitchell coaching the All Blacks again or Michael Cheika running meditation workshops.But it's happened, and Serena Jameka Williams will be the headline act at the 2020 ASB Classic.When she came in 2017 it seemed like a once in a lifetime event; sporting royalty gracing our boutique tournament at the bottom of the world.A bit like Tiger Woods playing at Paraparaumu in 2002, George Best and Manchester United at Carlaw Park in 1967 or Bjorn Borg thrilling Stanley street crowds in 1974.Williams enjoyed her visit last time, until her infamous 4-6 7-6 (5) 4-6 second round loss to then world No 53 Madison Brengle.The American made a career high 88 errors on a blustery day, and didn't hold back afterwards."I would say it's my least favourite conditions I've ever played in," said Williams, before adding that the ASB Classic "[was] not a great opportunity to assess your game."To her credit Wiliams also labelled her mistake-ridden display "unprofessional" but made it clear she couldn't wait to get out of Dodge."At least I can get out of these conditions so I can get somewhere better, and warmer weather too," said Williams. "I can take solace in the fact that the conditions won't be like this is Melbourne."But she's back, and will again dominate the sporting media landscape here in early January.How did it happen?The genesis was a 'clear the air' meeting at the 2017 Australian Open a week after her unhappy Auckland exit, where her coach Patrick Mouratoglou, agent Jill Smoller and Williams sat down with ASB Classic tournament director Karl Budge."It was all raw emotion at the time [after the match] but on reflection she probably would have phrased things in a different way," said Budge. "We moved on really quickly and there really wasn't any bad blood. It was just how about we get this right next time…how do we get you back?Serena indicated she was open to playing here again, and became the primary target for Budge heading into this year.After a brief chat in Melbourne in January it was agreed they would catch up during the American summer swing, and a 15 minute meeting at the Miami Open in March sealed the deal."It was a yes before we even talked about anything," said Budge. "It was a place she wanted to start her year and we were pretty obliging, funnily enough. It was a really quick conversation. She said 'Yup, I really want to make this happen, let's go away and do it'."For her part Williams said a sense of unfinished business fuelled her decision to return."Oh man, I want to win that title so bad," said world No 8 Williams in a statement. "Last time I was there I had so much going on and although I fought through to win my first match, I know I didn't play to my level. I have such amazing memories that are really special to me from Auckland. I would really like to add some on court memories to that list."It's a massive coup for the event, as the 37-year-old is a true sporting legend.Twenty three grand slam singles titles, nine other major finals and a stack of doubles successes with sister Venus.Williams has also spent 319 weeks as world No 1, in a career of remarkable longevity.Williams won her first grand slam back in 1999, when Jacinda Ardern was studying at the University of Waikato, Bill Clinton was United States President and Richie McCaw was in high school.Probably the best measure of her greatness is that for most of the last two decades, there has rarely been a match where she hasn't started favourite.She generally doesn't play International level events (the third tier) on the WTA tour, and the 2017 ASB Classic was her first in several years.But she enjoyed almost all of her Auckland experience last time, including a helicopter trip to...

This week on the Game Set and Match tennis Podcast Radio Sport commentator Matt Brown and Tennis NZ High Performance Manager Sion Rea wrap up the Fed Cup semifinals. They review the Monte Carlo Masters which saw colourful Italian Fabio Fognini stun the king of clay Rafael Nadal and go on to win his first Masters 1000 title. Matt and Simon share their views on ATP Player Council representative Justin Gimelstob who this week was sentenced to three years probation and 60 days community service for a an assault on a former friend in California. The ATP Player Council will decide in Rome next month whether he retains his position. We also hear from Kiwi doubles player Marcus Daniell who is reunited with his regular partner Wesley Koolhof at the ATP tournament in Budapest while tournament director Karl Budge updates us on developments with Auckland's ASB men's and women's Classics following his return from meetings in the UJS.

This week on the Game Set and Match tennis Podcast Radio Sport commentator Matt Brown and Tennis NZ High Performance Manager Sion Rea wrap up the Fed Cup semifinals. They review the Monte Carlo Masters which saw colourful Italian Fabio Fognini stun the king of clay Rafael Nadal and go on to win his first Masters 1000 title. Matt and Simon share their views on ATP Player Council representative Justin Gimelstob who this week was sentenced to three years probation and 60 days community service for a an assault on a former friend in California. The ATP Player Council will decide in Rome next month whether he retains his position. We also hear from Kiwi doubles player Marcus Daniell who is reunited with his regular partner Wesley Koolhof at the ATP tournament in Budapest while tournament director Karl Budge updates us on developments with Auckland's ASB men's and women's Classics following his return from meetings in the UJS.

Bianca Andreescu is the talk of the tennis world, the 18 year old Canadian who broke through as a qualifier to reach Auckland's ASB Classic final. She's won the prestigious WTA Premier tournament at Indian Wells. Radio Sport tennis commentator Matt Brown and Tennis NZ High Performance manager Simon Rea present the Game Set and Match podcast and reflect on her phenomenal achievement. We catch up with ASB Classic tournament director Karl Budge on the prospects of luring Andreescu back to Auckland in 2020. We hear from Andreescu and the men's champion Dominic Thiem who stunned Roger Federer in the final. Plus we round up all the action from Kiwis around the world.

Bianca Andreescu is the talk of the tennis world, the 18 year old Canadian who broke through as a qualifier to reach Auckland's ASB Classic final. She's won the prestigious WTA Premier tournament at Indian Wells. Radio Sport tennis commentator Matt Brown and Tennis NZ High Performance manager Simon Rea present the Game Set and Match podcast and reflect on her phenomenal achievement. We catch up with ASB Classic tournament director Karl Budge on the prospects of luring Andreescu back to Auckland in 2020. We hear from Andreescu and the men's champion Dominic Thiem who stunned Roger Federer in the final. Plus we round up all the action from Kiwis around the world.

Listen above as Karl Budge joins D'Arcy and Goran to discuss the signing of Denis Shapovalov for the ASB Men's Classic next year.ASB Classic organisers have confirmed they've secured one of the hottest signatures on the ATP tour, teen tennis prodigy Denis Shapovalov.The 19-year old Canadian sensation is continuing to make an impression on the ATP tour, his explosive style of play propelling him up the rankings, seeing him reach a high of world number 23 in June, becoming the youngest player to be ranked in the Top 25 since Richard Gasquet in 2005.It's this form that saw him named the 2017 ATP Star of Tomorrow, being the youngest player to finish in the Top 100 after a season which saw him beating world number 1 Rafael Nadal and Juan Martin del Potro to reach the semi-final of the Montreal Masters.During his maiden year on the ATP tour, Shapovalov became the youngest quarter-finalist and semi-finalist ever an ATP Masters 1000 event, eclipsing the likes of Nadal, Federer and Djokovic.Known as one of the most energetic and exciting players on the Tour, Shapovalov is excited to be returning to Auckland after enjoying his first visit to the ASB Classic earlier this year."It's is a great tournament and I'm looking forward to being back. The fans were incredible last year and it's so much fun - I can't wait to get back on to centre court.""Auckland is awesome. I jumped off the Sky Tower when I was there last time. I'm not sure what I'll do on this visit but I'm sure I'll find something fun."ASB Classic Tournament Director Karl Budge is thrilled to have Shapovalov return to the ASB Classic for a second year in a row."We got a taste of what Shapovalov can deliver this year and we can't wait to see more. There is no question he is a star of the future, and he's delivering some big matches right now. He's so athletic and dynamic, just so exciting to watch on court.""The ASB Classic has a reputation for showcasing the next generation of talent – Nadal, Federer, Wozniacki and Murray have all played here early in their careers. We gave Naomi Osaka a wild card in 2017, and Jelena Ostapenko made her name in Auckland before winning Roland Garros. We're certain that Shapovalov is going to be another name to add to this list" continued Budge.And some big names in tennis agree with tennis legend Pete Sampras believing Shapovalov will become a top two player, whilst seven-time Grand Slam Champion Mats Wilander compared him to two of the games greats."He is a serious talent. To be 100 per cent honest, you cannot compare Shapovalov to any other youngster. He is a completely different level. It's like watching a combination of [Rafael] Nadal and [Roger] Federer at 18 years old. He has the fire of Nadal and the speed around the court of Nadal and he has the grace of Federer. It's unbelievable" said Wilander. 

LISTEN TO KARL BUDGE TALK WITH D'ARCY AND GORAN ABOVEThe ASB Classic defending champions are returning to Auckland.2018 Women's champion and current world number nine Julia Goerges and Men's champion Roberto Bautista Agut will be returning to defend their titles next year.Goerges carried on her sublime form after her win in Auckland, beating two top 20 players (Daria Kasatkina & Anastasija Sevastova) as well as US Open Champion Naomi Osaka, on route to the final of the Charleston Open in April.The German powerhouse also added another three quarter-final (Moscow, Birmingham, Doha) and two semi-final appearances (New Haven, St Petersburg) to round out her career best year.Her standout performance came on the grass courts of Wimbledon, where she reached her first Grand Slam semi-final, fighting through a number of three set matches before falling to 7-time Wimbledon Champion Serena Williams.Goerges is looking forward to be returning to the City of Sails to kick off her 2019 season."I love playing in Auckland. It is one of my favourite tournaments and the best peroration for the Australian Open. I have had some great results there and I am very happy to be back as ASB Classic defending champion" said Goerges.Like Goerges, Roberto Bautista Agut continued his winning form throughout 2018, capturing his biggest title of his career in Dubai, an ATP World Tour 500 event. The gutsy Spaniard made it to the final of Gstaad, another two semi-finals (St Petersburg & Halle) and two more quarter-finals (Munich & Barcelona) to round out his best results for the year.ASB Classic Tournament Director Karl Budge says, clearly these two champions play some of their best tennis in Auckland and that's why they're crowd favourites."Everyone will remember Roberto's epic semi-final battle against Robin Haase, and then to back that up the next day in the final against Juan Martin del Potro, it was extraordinary! In the women's final, both Julia and Caroline were fighting for their maiden ASB Classic title with Julia coming out on top. It's just so great to have both of our champs back to defend their titles."The ever-consistent Bautista Agut has been as high as 13 on the ATP world rankings, he's won eight ATP titles in his career, two of which came in Auckland (2016 & 2018) and is looking to finish off the year strongly with a solid showing in Shanghai. The clay court specialist is currently ranked 25 in the world.After 13 years on the WTA tour, Goerges has won five singles titles and another five doubles titles. 2018 has been her best year to date, she's broken inside the top ten, currently sitting at her career best ranking of 9 in the world, and is in the running to be named the WTA most improved player of the year.ASB head of community and sponsorship Mark Graham says the return of the 2018 ASB Classic winners adds to an already impressive player field. "We are thrilled that both champions from the 2018 ASB Classic are returning to defend their titles. Both players have been to Auckland numerous times, bring a lot of passion and quality to the tournament and have been very supportive off the court helping ASB engage with local charities. It will be great to have them back again for 2019." 

Former world number one Victoria Azarenka is the latest big name signing for Auckland's ASB women's tennis classic this summer.The Belarussian was due to come to Auckland last year but pulled out due to the long running custody battle with her son's father.However that's now resolved and the two time Grand Slam champion joins the already announced Caroline Wozniacki (currently world number 2) and Venus Williams as Grand Slam Champions and former World Number Ones that have committed to starting their year in Auckland.Together the three have enjoyed an incredible 133 weeks at world number one, have won 99 WTA titles, 10 Grand Slam titles and 5 Olympic medals."This field is certainly shaping up to be our strongest yet. There is still the chance of another Grand Slam Champion and we know we have two more big names that will confirm in the coming weeks. With the first round now split over two sessions rather than four, we are going to have what will probably be our strongest ever Monday and Tuesday of the Women's event" said Tournament Director Karl Budge.Azarenka has been a mainstay at the top of the Women's game since breaking in to the top ten in 2009. She rose to number one in the world for 51 consecutive weeks in 2012 having captured her first of back to back Australian Open titles. She became just the third women of all time to achieve the 'Sunshine Double', winning both Indian Wells and Miami in 2016.In 2018 the Belarusian has risen an incredible 154 spots on the WTA rankings as she strives to return to the top ten following the birth of her first child, Leo.Whilst it may have been Serena that has grabbed the headlines, Azarenka too is flying the flag for sporting mums balancing life as a mother and as a professional athlete."Vika has been incredible since coming back on Tour. She performed incredibly well at Wimbledon last year in her second tournament back and this year alone she made the Semi-Final's in Miami, one of the biggest events of the year and recorded wins over top ten players. What she is doing is incredible and we look forward to welcoming her and Leo to Auckland in January". 

LISTEN TO TOURNAMENT DIRECTOR KARL BUDGE TALK WITH D'ARCY AND GORAN ABOVEAnother coup for Auckland's ASB women's tennis Classic with Australian Open champion Caroline Wozniacki letting slip on social media that's she's returning for a sixth crack at the title this summer.Wozniacki who is in Beijing at the China Open made the announcement on Facebook."I cant wait to start my 2019 year in one of my favourite cities for the ASB Classic. Such a fun place to play. Going one better in 2019! See my kiwi fans soon," she said.The 28-year-old Dane was always a target for tournament director Karl Budge, but the fact she's now a Grand Slam champion had her in even more demand and tournament director Karl Budge is relieved to get her over the line."It's nice that's she's excited about coming back and wanting to talk about it and nice to have a Grand Slam champion and former world number one coming back to Auckland," Budge said.The tournament now has two of the most recognisable faces in tennis with Wozniacki and seven times Grand Slam champion Venus Williams also confirmed.The duo have spent a combined 88 weeks at world number one. Wozniacki is a superstar of the sport having amassed more than $31 million USD in prize money and capturing 29 WTA titles. She has featured on the cover of dozens of international publications such as Elle, Sports Illustrated and Cosmopolitan.One senses Wozniacki's return was never really in doubt. She has formed a close friendship with Budge over the years, dating back to his time working for the WTA Tour.But more than that, the 28 year old is a real competitor who is desperate to claim the title in Auckland having lost two finals, this year to German Julia Goerges and in 2015 to Venus Williams."She definitely wants to lift this trophy and when we look back at the superstars we have had here Caroline has been the most consistent performer. When you are weighing up who to go after , having someone who you know is going to be hitting balls in anger on Thursday or Friday is an attractive proposition for us," Budge said.It's testament to the pulling power of the Auckland tournament which relies more on the good old fashioned Kiwi hospitality, proximity to the tournament hotel and attractions to lure players, plus the desire of those involved to ensure no stone is left unturned in making sure the players needs are looked after."It's a great statement as to how the ASB Classic is viewed among the players. It's like test driving a car and once we have them in the car they tend to purchase it and we have had that with Caroline and is a great position to have one of the top two or three female athletes in sport deciding she wants to come back to the ASB Classic every year," Budge said.The rival Brisbane International is a WTA Premier series tournament carries four times the prize money of Auckland and considerably more ranking points while the Shenzhen tournament in China also in the same week has double the prize money.Wozniacki captured her maiden Grand Slam title in January's Australian Open final against world number Simona Halep, in a match that has gone down as one of the best in the Open era. She went on to reach the semi finals at the WTA Premier tournament in Doha in February and won the traditional Wimbledon warm up at Eastbourne.Budge is targeting more big name players with last year's French Open champion Jelena Ostapenko another possibility while he is also chasing the signature of former world number one Victoria Azarenka who signed last year as a wildcard but pulled out due to child custody issues.Defending champion Goerges is currently ranked 10 and under tour rules allowing only one top ten ranked player into the Auckland field, won't be able to return unless she slips out of the top ten. The German has a lot of ranking points to defend between now and the end of the season and that scenario is likely.Budge believes the field to be finalised late next month will be stronger tha...

LISTEN TO KARL BUDGE TALK WITH D'ARCY AND GORAN ABOVEBig John is back.The ASB Classic has secured the signature of popular American John Isner, and tournament director Karl Budge is confident of attracting at least one more top 10 player for the 2019 event.Budge is aiming for Juan Martin del Potro, who was a big hit this year in his first appearance on Stanley Street since 2009.Del Potro would be a tough get. He's always a marquee player, not far below the 'big four' but has stormed back into prominence this year after reaching the last eight at Wimbledon and the semifinals at Roland Garros (only stopped by Rafa Nadal on both occasions) then finishing runner up to Novak Djokovic in New York.So, is Budge actually confident of landing the Argentine?"Yes, we are," Budge told Radio Sport. "We spoke again on Monday. He is a guy that doesn't make decisions at this time of year. Every year when I have been tournament director he has said no to me at this time. [But] in that November period once he is off tour, stopped playing and started to think about what [he] should do before Melbourne his views seem to change."Isner's confirmation today was no surprise, as the 33-year-old always enjoys starting his year in Auckland, usually surrounded by several compatriots in the locker room. But's it still a decent coup, as Isner is enjoying a brilliant year, where he peaked at number eight in the world and also captured his first ATP Masters 1000 title.That week in Miami was the best in Isner's career, as he beat three top ten players (Marin Cilic, three, Alexander Zverev, five and Juan Martin del Potro, six) as well as 2018 Australian Open semi-finalist Hyeon Chung on the way to lifting the trophy.Isner followed up that breakthrough victory by reaching the last four at Wimbledon, where he lost a six hour marathon to Kevin Anderson, and then making the quarter-finals in New York.The 2.08m Isner is still the king of aces – only one player in ATP history has served more than his 10,757 bombs – but he has an underrated all round game.Isner has an impressive record in the Queen City. He's played here on seven previous occasions, winning in 2010 and 2014 and reaching the quarter-finals on four other visits."I love playing in Auckland," said Isner. "It's such a great place to play, the crowds are awesome and it's one of the best stops on the tour. It's where I won my first ATP title, and I'm looking forward to playing there again in 2019.""When you have guys like Isner coming back year on year, particularly off the back of the season that he has had…he is a man in demand now," added Budge. "For him to show his loyalty again to the ASB Classic shows just how well regarded the tournament is."Isner's signature is added to Venus Williams, who last month was confirmed for the women's tournament.

The Australian Open tournament director has urged world tennis chiefs to lock in a position on in-match coaching in light of the stormy US Open women's final.Craig Tiley says the rise of Japanese winner Naomi Osaka is only good news for his tournament.But Tiley is refusing to be critical of Serena Williams' behaviour in the final, instead referring to the first judgment that started the spiral.He says the whole thing centered around coaching and the sport has to get itself sorted out as to whether it does or doesn't allow it during matches.ASB Classic Tournament director Karl Budge has waded into the debate as well.He told Craig Cummings that it comes down to human nature the differences between umpires and in the different tournaments.LISTEN TO KARL BUDGE TALK WITH CRAIG CUMMINGS 

ASB Classic tournament organizer Karl Budge says he will look to get Jack Sock back to next year’s event, even after his antics in the 2018 edition.  He’s hopeful that new Grand Slam winner Caroline Wozniacki will return, given the Classic was part of her early season preparation before her success at the Australian Open.LISTEN ABOVE AS KARL BUDGE SPEAKS WITH D'ARCY AND GORAN

ASB Classic tournament organizer Karl Budge says he will look to get Jack Sock back to next year’s event, even after his antics in the 2018 edition.  He’s hopeful that new Grand Slam winner Caroline Wozniacki will return, given the Classic was part of her early season preparation before her success at the Australian Open.LISTEN ABOVE AS KARL BUDGE SPEAKS WITH D'ARCY AND GORAN

ASB Classic tournament director Karl Budge says January's tournament has enough "star power" with the confirmed signings of Victoria Azarenka, Caroline Wozniakci and Agnieszka Radwanska - but he has funds and space available for Serena Williams, if she wants to come.Budge has until the day before to confirm whether the 23-time Grand Slam winner will take a Wild Card, and rates his chances of signing her at 30-40 per cent.LISTEN ABOVE AS KARL BUDGE SPEAKS WITH THE RADIO SPORT BREAKFAST

A bold prediction from ASB Classic tournament director Karl Budge, after signing Denis Shapovalov.He's confident he's secured the next Rafael Nadal or Roger Federer for January's men's tournament in Auckland.LISTEN ABOVE AS MATT BROWN SPEAKS WITH THE RADIO SPORT BREAKFAST

The fields for Auckland's men's and women's ASB tennis Classic's are beginning to take shape following the signing of both defending champions.Jack Sock and Lauren Davis join the likes of John Isner, Roberto Bautista Agut, Caroline Wozniacki and Agnieska Radwanska who have already signed on.Sock is currently ranked 23rd and Davis 47th with a number of other leading American players set to join them.Tournament director Karl Budge says there's at least one big name to come in the women's field while he's excited by what he's been able to secure for the men's classic."We're going to have a really good crop of top talent, like we always seem to get."Lauren's got a bit of a cult following here after her heroics last year and and Jack's always been probably the fan favourite on the men's side over the last a couple years."I'm still hoping for seven or eight players in the top 30, but the exciting piece for me is around these young kids coming through and getting them."LISTEN ABOVE AS KARL BUDGE SPOKE TO THE RADIO SPORT BREAKFAST

ASB Classic director Karl Budge has secured Caroline Wozniacki but said the WTA rules are hampering their efforts in signing top tennis talent.LISTEN ABOVE AS KARL BUDGE SPEAKS WITH RADIO SPORT BREAKFAST

It's our Season 6 premiere! This is our 217th episode, and golly do Ben and Courtney have lots to reflect on before we get started with 2017. Time to look back to move forward. First, we look back at the career and legacy of Ana Ivanovic, who played excellent tennis at times and was a joy to be around always. We discuss the role she plays in our separate and joint tennis origin stories, and what made her such a welcome presence on tour. Then, Ben chats with Auckland tournament director Karl Budge about running a tournament that has attracted increasingly star-studded fields (including Serena, Venus, and Wozniacki this year), and the differences between running ATP and WTA events. Then we get into the meat of the show, which is our annual nostalgia trip known as "Remember When...?" It's so meaty this time that we need to carve it into two pieces, so this #175a will be followed by #175b in the near future. And as always, thanks for liking us on Facebook (leave comments on the episode thread! Engage with other listeners), following us on Twitter (discuss this episode with hashtag #NCR175a!), and subscribing/reviewing on iTunes on iTunes or whatever your podcasting app/platform of choice may be.

The 2016 ASB Classic has been eventful, between big names toppling early and the weather playing havoc. The women's tennis tournament has ended in victory for 22 year old American Sloane Stephens who's already talking about returning to defend her title. Tournament organiser Karl Budge disusses this year's Classic as the men's tournament begins.