Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast The Functional Tennis Podcast

In episode 235 of the Functional Tennis Podcast, I sit down with Sandra Zaniewska, coach of WTA Top 20 player Marta Kostyuk.

Sandra, a former pro herself with wins over the likes of Ons Jabeur and Ash Barty, transitioned into coaching at a young age and has since worked with top names like Petra Martic and Alizé Cornet.

Sandra shares her journey from player to coach, her experiences leading the development of high-performance players at the Mouratoglou Tennis Academy, and her role with the Champ'Seed Foundation. We dive deep into the dynamics of coaching, exploring key themes like respect, communication, and trust. Plus, we tackle the big question: who’s really in charge—player or coach?

I hope you enjoy this insightful conversation!

Fabio

This podcast is sponsored by ASICS. ASICS is a Japanese company founded in 1949 to give more people the opportunity to experience how sports and movement can have a positive impact on mental well-being.

To learn more about ASICS visit their website here: https://www.asics.com/nl/en-nl/sports/tennis/

Find us on Social Media:

Instagram: Instagram.com/FunctionalTennis

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@functionaltennis

And check out our famous Saber tennis training racket here

I chatted with pro doubles strategist Will Boucek. Will works with numerous ATP/WTA doubles pros, and USTA and helps amateurs improve their doubles.

We chat about how Will got into doubles strategy and created a niche for himself, patterns he has noticed, analysing Carlos and Rafa as doubles players as well as tips and tactics for doubles players.

Will also has a weekly newsletter and podcast where he shares doubles tips to help you improve your doubles and you can check it out here.

Enjoy the episode

Fabio

This podcast is sponsored by ASICS. ASICS is a Japanese company founded in 1949 to give more people the opportunity to experience how sports and movement can have a positive impact on mental well-being.

To learn more about ASICS visit their website here

Find us on Social Media:

Instagram: Instagram.com/FunctionalTennis

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@functionaltennis

Former top Junior and College Tennis player Govind Nanda joins me on the podcast.

Govind has left University and is making a push back up the rankings where during his College days at UCLA he got to a high of 339 ATP which is impressive for a College tennis player. 

He chats about his early tennis days, the decision to play college tennis, training with Novak Djokovic and more.

hope you enjoy and learn

Fabio

This podcast is sponsored by ASICS. ASICS is a Japanese company founded in 1949 to give more people the opportunity to experience how sports and movement can have a positive impact on mental well-being

To learn more about ASICS visit their website here: https://www.asics.com/nl/en-nl/sports/tennis/

Find us on Social Media:

Instagram: Instagram.com/FunctionalTennis

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@functionaltennis

YouTube: Functional Tennis Podcast

Today I chatted to Justin Van Malderen, 3rd generation in the Luxilon family business. Luxilon manufactures great strings used by many top pros.

Justin tells us all about the Luxlilon beginnings, who owns the company, how strings are made, what % of the top pros use Luxilon and more.

I hope you enjoy this episode

Fabio

This podcast is sponsored by ASICS. ASICS is a Japanese company founded in 1949 to give more people the opportunity to experience how sports and movement can have a positive impact on mental well-being.

To learn more about ASICS visit their website here: https://www.asics.com/nl/en-nl/sports/tennis/

Find us on Social Media:

Instagram: Instagram.com/FunctionalTennis

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@functionaltennis

YouTube: Functional Tennis Podcast

I dug through the audio archives and found my chat with Wimbledon Finalist Jasmine Paolini when she was a top 70-ranked player only a few years ago. She talks about what's needed to be 1% better every day, patience, challenges along the way and the struggle to qualify for slams!! It’s a short but insightful partner.

Hope you enjoy

Fabio

This podcast is sponsored by ASICS. ASICS is a Japanese company founded in 1949 to give more people the opportunity to experience how sports and movement can have a positive impact on mental well-being.

To learn more about ASICS visit their website here: https://www.asics.com/nl/en-nl/sports/tennis/

Find us on Social Media:

Instagram: Instagram.com/FunctionalTennis

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@functionaltennis

YouTube: Functional Tennis Podcast

I speak to Irish former pro Conor Niland who has just released a book called The Racket which documents his tennis journey from the first time he picked up a racket until retirement.

Conor reached a career-high ATP 129 and made Grand Slam appearances. He recites many stories from all aspects of his journey from the junior Irish circuit, going to boarding school in the UK, missed opportunities at Bollettieri, College tennis at UCLA, turning pro, Davis Cup and more.

It’s a great insight into how hard it is to become a tennis player and it leaves you with questions. I asked Conor some of the questions that entered my mind while reading the book.

I hope you enjoy the episode.

Fabio

This podcast is sponsored by ASICS. ASICS is a Japanese company founded in 1949 to give more people the opportunity to experience how sports and movement can have a positive impact on mental well-being.

To learn more about ASICS visit their website here: https://www.asics.com/nl/en-nl/sports/tennis/

Find us on Social Media:

Instagram: Instagram.com/FunctionalTennis

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@functionaltennis

YouTube: Functional Tennis Podcast

Mini episode this week with current WTA number 63 Diane Parry.

I met Diane at the Asics Rally for Your Mind event in central Paris. We discussed:

• Playing in Paris as Parisian
• Her 1 handed backhand
• Advice for parents/players
• The best advice she has received

Louis Rouach who runs event activations for Asics also tells us about the Rally for Your Mind event.

Fabio

This podcast is sponsored by ASICS. ASICS is a Japanese company founded in 1949 to give more people the opportunity to experience how sports and movement can have a positive impact on mental well-being.

To learn more about ASICS visit their website here: https://www.asics.com/nl/en-nl/sports/tennis/

Find us on Social Media:

Instagram: Instagram.com/FunctionalTennis

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@functionaltennis

YouTube: Functional Tennis Podcast

Today I chat with former pro and entrepreneur Peter Clarke.

Peter was a fiery Irish promising tennis who quickly reached an ATP ranking of 229. Retiring quite young today, he got into coaching and soon after set up multiple successful businesses.

He talks about growing up in Australia, his tennis days, some good anecdotes and his most recent project is called Coach Life, an online video platform. He chased down coaches worldwide for the past 12 months who worked with today's top players when they were juniors to learn their coaching methods in those early days. Currently, there are over 350 videos to learn from and I haven't watched them all but those I have, I found exceptional.

On the platform are the junior coaches of Iga Swiatek, Nick Kyrgios, Tommy Paul, Taylor Fritz, Genie Bouchard, Coco Gauff, Sloane Stephens, Kei Nishikori, Pete Sampras, Francis Tiafoe, Pat Rafter, Denis Shapovalov and many more.

Each month a new coach will be added to the platform. And it's not all on-court coaching, there is also fitness, nutrition, mental and more.

Check it out here with a free 7-day trial.

Enjoy

Fabio

This podcast is sponsored by ASICS. ASICS is a Japanese company founded in 1949 to give more people the opportunity to experience how sports and movement can have a positive impact on mental well-being.

To learn more about ASICS visit their website here: https://www.asics.com/nl/en-nl/sports/tennis/

Find us on Social Media:

Instagram: Instagram.com/FunctionalTennis

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@functionaltennis

YouTube: Functional Tennis Podcast

I chatted to Italian coach Andrea Ramundo who I met at the IMG Future Stars Event.

Andrea works with promising Italian Juniors, Ilary Pistola, Tommaso Panto and Pietro Marinelli.

We discuss

• Coaching Journey
• Italian Tennis Federation
• What he learned at the IMG Future Stars Event
• Working for free for 1 year with his mentor Jofre Porta
• Member of Team Asics Academy

Andrea is super nice with some nice insights.

Hope you enjoy

Fabio

This podcast is sponsored by ASICS. ASICS is a Japanese company founded in 1949 to give more people the opportunity to experience how sports and movement can have a positive impact on mental well-being.

To learn more about ASICS visit their website here: https://www.asics.com/nl/en-nl/sports/tennis/

Find us on Social Media:

Instagram: Instagram.com/FunctionalTennis

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@functionaltennis

YouTube: Functional Tennis Podcast

I'm just back from the IMG Future Stars event in Greece where I saw some of the world's best 12 years in action.

Last year I did a special episode on 14 things that make these kids special, this year I decided to change it up and better understand the journey these kids are on.

What stood out is how hard it is, you probably already know this but I found it interesting speaking to the parents and coaches about this.

I've put together some of my learnings in this rare solo episode.

If you are a parent this is an episode for you.

I hope you find it useful.

Fabio

This podcast is sponsored by ASICS. ASICS is a Japanese company founded in 1949 to give more people the opportunity to experience how sports and movement can have a positive impact on mental well-being.

To learn more about ASICS visit their website here: https://www.asics.com/nl/en-nl/sports/tennis/

Find us on Social MediaInstagram: Instagram.com/FunctionalTennis

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@functionaltennis

YouTube: Functional Tennis Podcast

This week I caught up with Peter Hemanns, the tennis product manager at Asics. Peter tells us about

• His Role
• What's new with my favourite shoe the Solution Speed 3
• If any updates on the Resolution and Court FF
• Did he know about Dimitrov wearing Asics
• Technology in their clothes
• The Asics Paris and London House

If you are a listener to the shoe you know that Asics are our sponsors and it was a great opportunity to learn more about Asics and Peter.

I hope you enjoy it

Fabio

In a few days, I'm off to Greece for the IMG Future Stars which brings together 48 of the World's best boys and girls along with their parents and coaches. I get to spend the week with them observing, learning and interacting with them.

We've many new listeners and this was one of our top episodes into 2023 so I thought this was a timely episode to bring back up.

I hope you enjoy it and if you've heard it before it's a good refresher.

Fabio

This podcast is sponsored by ASICS. ASICS is a Japanese company founded in 1949 to give more people the opportunity to experience how sports and movement can have a positive impact on mental well-being.

To learn more about ASICS visit their website here: https://www.asics.com/nl/en-nl/sports/tennis/

Find us on Social Media:

Instagram: Instagram.com/FunctionalTennis

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@functionaltennis

YouTube: Functional Tennis Podcast

I am excited to have David Norrie on the show this week talking to guest host Dave O'Hare.

David is the Dad of British number 1 and career-high ATP no.8 Cam Norrie.

David chats about :

• The early days in New Zealand
• Building character
• Being a tennis parent is not easy
• Not specialising too early

and more.

I hope you enjoy the episode.

Fabio

This podcast is sponsored by ASICS. ASICS is a Japanese company founded in 1949 to give more people the opportunity to experience how sports and movement can have a positive impact on mental well-being.

To learn more about ASICS visit their website here: https://www.asics.com/nl/en-nl/sports/tennis/

Find us on Social Media:

Instagram: Instagram.com/FunctionalTennis

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@functionaltennis

YouTube: Functional Tennis Podcast

Coaching great Brad Stine joins guest host Dave O'Hare on this week's episode.

Brad Stine is the current coach of US Number 1 Tommy Paul and has worked with greats such as Jim Courier, Mardy Fish, Kevin Anderson and more.

He chats about:

• The imposter syndrome as a young coach
• You can't Bullsh*t tennis players
• Be the best at teaching fundamentals
• Stop playing to the stats
• Coaching is an art form, not a science

And much more.

It's one of my favourite episodes and is required listening for all Functional Tennis Fans.

Hope you enjoy

Fabio

This podcast is sponsored by ASICS. ASICS is a Japanese company founded in 1949 to give more people the opportunity to experience how sports and movement can have a positive impact on mental well-being.

To learn more about ASICS visit their website here: https://www.asics.com/nl/en-nl/sports/tennis/

Find us on Social Media:

Instagram: Instagram.com/FunctionalTennis

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@functionaltennis

YouTube: Functional Tennis Podcast

The title says it all, Tennis is difficult. Guest host Dave O'Hare kicks off his first-ever episodes as a host with Freddie Nielsen. Freddie is a former pro from Denamk, a Wimbledon doubles champ and the current Danish Davis Cup Captain.

It’s a great discussion with thoughts on compassion, anger, perfection, acceptance, competing, disagreeing and more.

It's a bit different to my usual conversations but its great to see 2 experienced tennis people chatting with plenty of lessons to learn.

I hope you enjoy it

Fabio

This podcast is sponsored by ASICS. ASICS is a Japanese company founded in 1949 to give more people the opportunity to experience how sports and movement can have a positive impact on mental well-being.

To learn more about ASICS visit their website here: https://www.asics.com/nl/en-nl/sports/tennis/

Find us on Social Media:

Instagram: Instagram.com/FunctionalTennis

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@functionaltennis

YouTube: Functional Tennis Podcast

This week former guest Dave O’Hare is back on the show.

Dave will be guest hosting a few episodes of the Functional Tennis Podcast and I ask him who he has lined up. We also chat about

• Empty locker rooms
• Been process driven
• The current ball situations
• His thoughts on making doubles better

and more.

I hope you enjoy the chat.

Fabio

This podcast is sponsored by ASICS. ASICS is a Japanese company founded in 1949 to give more people the opportunity to experience how sports and movement can have a positive impact on mental well-being.

To learn more about ASICS visit their website here: https://www.asics.com/nl/en-nl/sports/tennis/

Find us on Social Media:

Instagram: Instagram.com/FunctionalTennis

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@functionaltennis

YouTube: Functional Tennis Podcast

Today I chat with the current world number 1 junior Joel Schwarzler. Joel is from Austria with a South African mother and is transitioning to the pro tour.

We chat about:

• Early days playing tennis
• Dislike of his parents watching his matches
• Austrian inspirations
• His coach, former pro Jurgen Melzer
• Junior versus pro tour
• His 1st ATP Point
• Advice for other juniors

I hope you enjoy the chat

Fabio

This podcast is sponsored by ASICS. ASICS is a Japanese company founded in 1949 to give more people the opportunity to experience how sports and movement can have a positive impact on mental well-being.

To learn more about ASICS visit their website here: https://www.asics.com/nl/en-nl/sports/tennis/

Find us on Social Media:

Instagram: Instagram.com/FunctionalTennis

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@functionaltennis

YouTube: Functional Tennis Podcast

I speak to 15-year-old Tyra Grant, a top 10 ITF Junior this week.

We previously had her mam, Cinzia Giovinco on the show and her coach Tom Gutteridge.

Tyra is a mature hard-hitting 15-year-old. We chat about

• What it feels like to be a top 10 junior
• What is hard work to her
• Living away from her family
• Her competitive nature
• Advice for other Juniors
• Players to watch out for in the future

I hope you enjoy the show.

Fabio

This podcast is sponsored by ASICS. ASICS is a Japanese company founded in 1949 to give more people the opportunity to experience how sports and movement can have a positive impact on mental well-being.

To learn more about ASICS visit their website here: https://www.asics.com/nl/en-nl/sports/tennis/

Find us on Social Media:

Instagram: Instagram.com/FunctionalTennis

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@functionaltennis

YouTube: Functional Tennis Podcast

In this episode, join me with Branko Avramovski the father of 12 year old rising star Damyan Avramovski (aka 'Nana') from Bulgaria. We talk things junior tennis from coaching, rackets and, tournament play. 

Hope you enjoy the episode,

Fabio.

This podcast is sponsored by ASICS. ASICS is a Japanese company founded in 1949 to give more people the opportunity to experience how sports and movement can have a positive impact on mental well-being.

To learn more about ASICS visit their website here: https://www.asics.com/nl/en-nl/sports/tennis/

Find us on Social Media:

Instagram: Instagram.com/FunctionalTennis

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@functionaltennis

YouTube: Functional Tennis Podcast

Mentioned in this episode:

Asics Tennis Webinar

Reserve your spot now for February 1st as well as secure 30 days of access to the content

https://asicstennisacademy.coachtube.com/

This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis:

Chartable - https://chartable.com/privacy

Kicking off 2024 is Brandon Holt, a former All-American with a career-high ATP 180.

Brandon has a huge US Open in 2022 getting through qualifiers and then taking down US Number 1 Taylor Fritz. Brandon is also the son of former Number 1 and 3 times slam champ Tracey Austin.

We chat

• Easy decision to play college tennis
• Benefits of College tennis
• 2022 US Open
• Striking with the Saber
• Inspirations from my mam
• Advice for Juniors

I hope you enjoy the episode.

Fabio

This podcast is sponsored by ASICS. ASICS is a Japanese company founded in 1949 to give more people the opportunity to experience how sports and movement can have a positive impact on mental well-being.

To learn more about ASICS visit their website here: https://www.asics.com/nl/en-nl/sports/tennis/

Find us on Social Media:

Instagram: Instagram.com/FunctionalTennis

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@functionaltennis

YouTube: Functional Tennis Podcast

This week for our final episode of the year we have an in-depth chat with Pablo Andújar. Last week he was on the show along with Kenneth Carlsen advising junior players. Today there is more advice and stories throughout his career.

I hope you enjoy the episode.

Fabio

This podcast is sponsored by ASICS. ASICS is a Japanese company founded in 1949 to give more people the opportunity to experience how sports and movement can have a positive impact on mental well-being.

To learn more about ASICS visit their website here: https://www.asics.com/nl/en-nl/sports/tennis/

Find us on Social Media:

Instagram: Instagram.com/FunctionalTennis

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@functionaltennis

YouTube: Functional Tennis Podcast

Last week I got to spend the week at the Tecnifibre junior training camp in Valencia. Tecnibifre brought 5 of their juniors running from 11-16 years of age along with their parents and coaches for a week-long training camp. Their objective for to push the players outside their comfort zone on and off the court as well as give them advice which will be invaluable in their junior career. Tecnifibre wants to help these players as much as possible make the transition to the senior game.

Leading the on-court sessions was former world number 32 Pablo Andujar and there also was former world number 41 Kenneth Carlsen who was there as a coach with a player.

Both were so nice, full of advice, open to any questions and told great stories of life as a junior and on the tour.

This episode is them talking about their experience as a Junior, lessons they learned, advice for the juniors and the 5 juniors who got to ask them a question.

You could say this is an unplanned episode but the advice was so good I felt it had to be shared.

I hope you enjoy it.

Fabio

Ps. We had Kenneth on the podcast before and tap here if you want to know more about him

This podcast is sponsored by ASICS. ASICS is a Japanese company founded in 1949 to give more people the opportunity to experience how sports and movement can have a positive impact on mental well-being.

To learn more about ASICS visit their website here: https://www.asics.com/nl/en-nl/sports/tennis/

Find us on Social Media:

Instagram: Instagram.com/FunctionalTennis

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@functionaltennis

YouTube: Functional Tennis Podcast

This week on the podcast I speak with former world no. 65 and coach of Coco Gauff when she won the US Open title in 2023.

We discuss:

• His pro career
• Decision to retire after a road accident
• Transition to coaching
• Working with Coco Gauff and Brad Gilbert
• Advice for junior players today

I hope you enjoy!

Fabio

This podcast is sponsored by ASICS. ASICS is a Japanese company founded in 1949 with the purpose of giving more people the opportunity to experience how sports and movement can have a positive impact on mental well-being.

To learn more about ASICS visit their website here: https://www.asics.com/nl/en-nl/sports/tennis/

Find us on Social Media:

Instagram: Instagram.com/FunctionalTennis

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@functionaltennis

YouTube: Functional Tennis Podcast

This week on the podcast I speak with former world no. 63 and NCAA Champion Bradley Klahn.

We discuss:

• Advantages of college tennis
• How he dealt with multiple injuries on tour
• Deciding to end his pro career
• Transition from tennis to an office job 
• How tennis prepares you for life ahead

I hope you enjoy!

Fabio

This podcast is sponsored by ASICS. ASICS is a Japanese company founded in 1949 with the purpose of giving more people the opportunity to experience how sports and movement can have a positive impact on mental well-being.

To learn more about ASICS visit their website here: https://www.asics.com/nl/en-nl/sports/tennis/

Find us on Social Media:

Instagram: Instagram.com/FunctionalTennis

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@functionaltennis

YouTube: Functional Tennis Podcast

This week on the podcast I speak with top ATP doubles coach, Rob Morgan. Rob has coached players at the last 4 Nitto ATP Finals and is currently the main coach of world number 8 and Wimbledon Champion Wesley Koolhof.

We discuss:

• Rob's learnings over the past 4 years as a top doubles coach
• How he's improved as a coach in these past 4 years
• Importance of getting the player in the right mindset for matches
• How doubles has changed and where it's heading 
• His tennis academy "M2 Performance Academy'

Rob is a fountain of knowledge and even has some great advice for tennis parents at the end of the episode.

His previous episode with me can be found here. We talk about his journey into tennis and the start of his coaching career.

Fabio

This podcast is sponsored by ASICS. ASICS is a Japanese company founded in 1949 with the purpose of giving more people the opportunity to experience how sports and movement can have a positive impact on mental well-being.

To learn more about ASICS visit their website here: https://www.asics.com/nl/en-nl/sports/tennis/

Find us on Social Media:

Instagram: Instagram.com/FunctionalTennis

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@functionaltennis

YouTube: Functional Tennis Podcast

This week on the podcast I speak with Andy Murray's long-term S & C Coach, Matt Little. Matt works with Andy Murray to this day, alongside work for the LTA and his online conditioning programme (Contact Matt on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram if you would like to work with him)

We discuss:

• Being prepared to back up your decisions as a coach
• Regular mobility and how older players can keep fit with busy work schedules
• The importance of setting aside training blocks for physical development of pros
• What is it when players “run out of steam”? 
• The data of tennis players and how fan experience in tennis can be improved
• Sliding vs planting on a hard court

Matt is a great guy and a fountain of knowledge so I have no doubt you'll enjoy this one!

His previous episode with me can be found here. We talk about how he got into the S&C world and combined it with tennis as well as working with Andy Murray and much more.

Fabio

Pre-order the Functional Tennis Saber Junior here

This podcast is sponsored by ASICS. ASICS is a Japanese company founded in 1949 with the purpose of giving more people the opportunity to experience how sports and movement can have a positive impact on mental well-being.

To learn more about ASICS visit their website here: https://www.asics.com/nl/en-nl/sports/tennis/

Find us on Social Media:

Instagram: Instagram.com/FunctionalTennis

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@functionaltennis

YouTube: Functional Tennis Podcast

This week on the podcast I speak with 3 time International Tennis Photographer of the Year Clive Brunskill. Clive is one of the world’s best sports photographers who has been commissioned to shoot the likes of Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, Andy Murray, David Beckham along with other celebrities Hugh Jackman, Beyonce and Britney Spears. 

We discuss:

• Differences between shooting in football and tennis
• Favourite tournaments to photograph at
• Most famous and notable photographs
• Photographing the Big Four at the Laver cup
• Has the digital era made life as a photographer easier?

Hope you enjoy hearing about tennis from behind this lens!

Fabio

Have you seen the Functional Tennis Saber? Check it out here and don't miss the video of Stan Wawrinka crushing the ball.

This podcast is sponsored by ASICS. ASICS is a Japanese company founded in 1949 with the purpose of giving more people the opportunity to experience how sports and movement can have a positive impact on mental well-being.

To learn more about ASICS visit their website here: https://www.asics.com/nl/en-nl/sports/tennis/

Find us on Social Media:

Instagram: Instagram.com/FunctionalTennis

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@functionaltennis

YouTube: Functional Tennis Podcast

This week on the podcast we have Matt Terczynski. Matt is a long time friend and permanent hitting partner of top 20 player Hubi Hurkacz. 

It was great speaking with Matt as he gives in depth insights into the life of a pro hitting partner, as well as some really useful advice for those players and parents who are starting out on their journey in elite tennis. Matt loves competing and managed to earn a spot in the Boss Open ATP 250 in Stuttgart last year, so he sure has the level to be playing with the top of the game. 

We discuss:

• Great start with Hubi as his hitting partner
• Why would a player have a hitting partner
• The mindset of Hubi Hurkacz
• Why it is important to feel stress in match situations instead of just practicing 
• The key to being a hitting partner!
• Advice to players/parents on becoming great players

This episode is awesome and Matt is a great guy so hope you enjoy!

Fabio

Have you seen the Functional Tennis Saber? Check it out here and don't miss the video of Stan Wawrinka crushing the ball.

This podcast is sponsored by ASICS. ASICS is a Japanese company founded in 1949 with the purpose of giving more people the opportunity to experience how sports and movement can have a positive impact on mental well-being.

To learn more about ASICS visit their website here: https://www.asics.com/nl/en-nl/sports/tennis/

Find us on Social Media:

Instagram: Instagram.com/FunctionalTennis

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@functionaltennis

YouTube: Functional Tennis Podcast

This week on the podcast we have on another great tennis parent, Kalin Davidov. Kalin is the father of one of the world's best juniors Teo Davidov.

Teo is an ambidextrous player. I was seriously impressed with Teo's skills and attitude when I saw him reach the semi finals of the IMG Future Stars event.

We discuss:

• Kalin's background in pro sport coming from a volleyball career in Bulgaria
• His knowledge of meditation, yoga, nutrition, chinese medicine and tennis
• The commitment he has made to coaching his son and how he can become a better coach
• The reasons for wanting Teo to use both hands to play tennis
• How Teo's game will cope with the men's game
• The importance of athleticism, olympic weightlifting and controlling the mind

There's so much to learn from this episode so I hope you enjoy it!

Fabio

Have you seen the Functional Tennis Saber? Check it out here and don't miss the video of Stan Wawrinka crushing the ball.

This podcast is sponsored by ASICS. ASICS is a Japanese company founded in 1949 with the purpose of giving more people the opportunity to experience how sports and movement can have a positive impact on mental well-being.

To learn more about ASICS visit their website here: https://www.asics.com/nl/en-nl/sports/tennis/

Find us on Social Media:

Instagram: Instagram.com/FunctionalTennis

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@functionaltennis

YouTube: Functional Tennis Podcast

This week on the podcast we speak to a functional movement specialist who works specifically in tennis. He's helped to develop the movement of reigning US Open Champion Coco Gauff.

Jeff Drock has worked in the industry for nearly 20 years. Originally, Jeff played college tennis at the University of North Florida where was inducted into the Athletics Hall of Fame! Jeff has worked as the Director of Sport Science at the Rick Macci Tennis Academy in Boca Raton, Florida and in 2009, Jeff founded the Home Fitness Professionals Association that provides in-home and mobile fitness training business skills. 

In our chat, we talk about the following:

• The formidable Coco Gauff and her athleticism as a young teenager
• How Jeff got into specialising in tennis footwork and movement and how he actively improves tennis players’ movement
• Jeff shares his advice for young athletes and how they can improve their own fitness from various resources online

Hope you enjoy it!

Fabio

Have you seen the Functional Tennis Saber? Check it out here and don't miss the video of Stan Wawrinka crushing the ball.

This podcast is sponsored by ASICS. ASICS is a Japanese company founded in 1949 with the purpose of giving more people the opportunity to experience how sports and movement can have a positive impact on mental well-being.

To learn more about ASICS visit their website here: https://www.asics.com/nl/en-nl/sports/tennis/

Find us on Social Media:

Instagram: Instagram.com/FunctionalTennis

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@functionaltennis

YouTube: Functional Tennis Podcast

In this week's episode, we jump into speaking to one of the most experienced physical trainers in our sport. 

I was lucky enough to speak to Kieron Vorster, the current physical trainer of Dan Evans, Liam Broady and Sorana Cirstea. Kieron has previously worked with Tim Henman, he's been the South African Davis Cup Captain and he's lead the Strength & Conditioning at the Qatar Tennis Federation. 

In our chat, we also cover ⬇️

• Dan Evans and his physical training
• Similarities between Dan Evans & Tim Henman
• Why Djokovic's body is SO pure
• What's so impressive about Dan Evans 
• The physical screening of junior tennis players

Hope you enjoy it!

Fabio

Have you seen the Functional Tennis Saber? Check it out here and don't miss the video of Stan Wawrinka crushing the ball.

This podcast is sponsored by ASICS. ASICS is a Japanese company founded in 1949 with the purpose of giving more people the opportunity to experience how sports and movement can have a positive impact on mental well-being.

To learn more about ASICS visit their website here: https://www.asics.com/nl/en-nl/sports/tennis/

Find us on Social Media:

Instagram: Instagram.com/FunctionalTennis

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@functionaltennis

YouTube: Functional Tennis Podcast

Today I speak with Patrick Harding, long-time performance coach for F1 driver Alex Albon. Patrick spends 31 weeks a year with Alex has been working with him for six years. Patrick looks after all aspects of Alex's physical and mental performance.

Look out for some similarities with tennis. There's lots of them!

In our chat, we cover ⬇️

• Controlling boundaries with the athlete
• Building trust and relationships
• Being focussed in intense moments
• Optimising performance conditions
• How fit F1 drivers really are

Hope you enjoy it!

Fabio

Have you seen the Functional Tennis Saber? Check it out here and don't miss the video of Stan Wawrinka crushing the ball.

This podcast is sponsored by ASICS. ASICS is a Japanese company founded in 1949 with the purpose of giving more people the opportunity to experience how sports and movement can have a positive impact on mental well-being.

To learn more about ASICS visit their website here: https://www.asics.com/nl/en-nl/sports/tennis/

Find us on Social Media:

Instagram: Instagram.com/FunctionalTennis

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@functionaltennis

YouTube: Functional Tennis Podcast

Today I speak with Gary Cahill, former Irish Davis Cup & Billie Jean King Cup (formerly Fed Cup) captain as well as a previous High-Performance Director for Tennis Ireland. Gary is now the Performance Director and founder of Prodigy Tennis which provides high-performance training programs to junior tennis players. Their mission is quite simple - to produce champions. 

In today's discussion, we delve into Garry's recent research collaboration with a prominent Irish University, focusing on the experiences of tennis parents throughout their journey. 

In our chat, we cover ⬇️

• The pivotal role of each parent
• Navigating challenging decisions at critical junctures
• Factors that influence decision-making
• Challenges working with multiple coaches
• Selecting the right academy
• Key takeaways and lessons learned from his ongoing research

Hope you enjoy it!

Fabio

Have you seen the Functional Tennis Saber? Check it out here and don't miss the video of Stan Wawrinka crushing the ball.

This podcast is sponsored by ASICS. ASICS is a Japanese company founded in 1949 with the purpose of giving more people the opportunity to experience how sports and movement can have a positive impact on mental well-being.

To learn more about ASICS visit their website here: https://www.asics.com/nl/en-nl/sports/tennis/

Find us on Social Media:

Instagram: Instagram.com/FunctionalTennis

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@functionaltennis

YouTube: Functional Tennis Podcast

Today I speak to Timea Babos, a former doubles world No.1 and 4-time Grand Slam champion, as well as a former top 25 singles player. At a young age of 30, Timea tells us how her motivation and love for the game is as high as ever as she tries to move back up the rankings after injury.

Timea speaks about growing up in a tennis family in her home country of Hungary and how her sister was a hugely talented player before her, having won the prestigious NCAA college tennis championships in the United States. She sheds light on her opportunity to train in and play for Great Britain when she was younger, as well as the challenges of coming from a smaller tennis nation when working her way up through the ITFs to the WTA Tour. And finally what I think you guys as listeners will find fascinating is how Timea deals with nerves, especially in the biggest stages of the sport at Grand Slams.

Fabio

Have you seen the Functional Tennis Saber? Check it out here and don't miss the video of Stan Wawrinka crushing the ball.

This podcast is sponsored by ASICS. ASICS is a Japanese company founded in 1949 with the purpose of giving more people the opportunity to experience how sports and movement can have a positive impact on mental well-being.

To learn more about ASICS visit their website here: https://www.asics.com/nl/en-nl/sports/tennis/

Find us on Social Media:

Instagram: Instagram.com/FunctionalTennis

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@functionaltennis

YouTube: Functional Tennis Podcast

Today I speak to Craig Boynton, the coach of Hubert Hurkacz. I was lucky to meet Craig last year at the IMG Future Stars event in Greece as Hubie was playing in the exhibition match and also stayed on to train for a few days.

Going into chat I didn’t know too much about Craig and I was intrigued to find out more about his early tennis and coaching career. He gets straight into it talking about stories of Pete Sampras and Jim Courier. He also talks about the type of coach he is and how he adapts to players he has worked with. He tells us about his relationship with Hubert, we touch on his match against Novak in the Wimbledon 1/4s and he ends by giving advice for our listeners who are tennis parents.

Fabio

Have you seen the Functional Tennis Saber? Check it out here and don't miss the video of Stan Wawrinka crushing the ball

This podcast is sponsored by ASICS. ASICS is a Japanese company founded in 1949 with the purpose of giving more people the opportunity to experience how sports and movement can have a positive impact on mental well-being.

To learn more about ASICS visit their website here: https://www.asics.com/nl/en-nl/sports/tennis/

Find us on Social Media:

Instagram: Instagram.com/FunctionalTennis

YouTube: Functional Tennis Podcast

Hi

I am on the search for a Content and Marketing freelancer to help with this podcast. I thought this might be a good place to ask.

You can get all the details here.

If you know somebody who might be interested please share this with them.

Thank you

Fabio

Welcome to our 200th Episode.

Today I chat with Former Australian Open winner and current coach of Sorana Cirstea, Thomas Johansson. Thomas gives us a look back at winning the Aus Open, what changed in his life afterwards, being forced to retire, his advice on the skills needed to be able to coach males and females, characteristics of top pros and a lot more.

Hope you enjoy the episode.

Fabio

Have you seen the Functional Tennis Saber? Check it out here and don't miss the video of Stan Wawrinka crushing the ball

This podcast is sponsored by ASICS. ASICS is a Japanese company founded in 1949 with the purpose of giving more people the opportunity to experience how sports and movement can have a positive impact on mental well-being.

To learn more about ASICS visit their website here: https://www.asics.com/nl/en-nl/sports/tennis/

Find us on Social Media:

Instagram: Instagram.com/FunctionalTennis

YouTube: Functional Tennis Podcast

It’s been a while since we had a top S&C trainer on the podcast so I’m excited to chat with Dalibor Sirola, the current S&C coach of Sasha Zverev.

As well as working with Sascha, Dalibor is the head of S&C at the Piatti Tennis Centre. He has previously worked with Ljubic, Seppit, Milos, Jannik Sinner, Born Coric and Sharapova.

We chat about his role at the Piatti Tennis Center, getting confidence back into Zverev, what differentiates the top players, testing players, strength levels, flywheel technology, touching on a development model for juniors and a lot more. 

Strength trainers are probably my favourite guests to talk to and this chat did not disappoint.

Fabio

Have you seen the Functional Tennis Saber? Check it out here and don't miss the video of Stan Wawrinka crushing the ball

This podcast is sponsored by ASICS. ASICS is a Japanese company founded in 1949 with the purpose of giving more people the opportunity to experience how sports and movement can have a positive impact on mental well-being.

To learn more about ASICS visit their website here: https://www.asics.com/nl/en-nl/sports/tennis/

Find us on Social Media:

Instagram: Instagram.com/FunctionalTennis

YouTube: Functional Tennis Podcast

Today I have a quick catchup with Queens Finalist and Current ATP number 17 Alex De Minaur. Alex was visiting the Asics House of Tennis located near Wimbledon carrying out some sponsor work and I got to quickly ask him a few questions in between his work.

He tells me what high performance is for him, where the extra pop has come from in his serve this year, playing Alcaraz and he tells us his advice to be 1% better Every day.

There are also 2 bonus questions in there.

And if you enjoy it check out our original chat with Alex back in episode 83.

Enjoy

Fabio

Have you seen the Functional Tennis Saber? Check it out here and don't miss the video of Stan Wawrinka crushing the ball

This podcast is sponsored by ASICS. ASICS is a Japanese company founded in 1949 with the purpose of giving more people the opportunity to experience how sports and movement can have a positive impact on mental well-being.

To learn more about ASICS visit their website here: https://www.asics.com/nl/en-nl/sports/tennis/

Find us on Social Media:

Instagram: Instagram.com/FunctionalTennis

YouTube: Functional Tennis Podcast

This week I speak to renowned former chair umpire Carlos Ramos. Carlos has umpired over 5000 matches in a career of over 30 years. 

We chat about what life was like as an umpire on the road, umpiring all 4 slam finals and the Olympic finals. 

We also get into the umpire code of conduct, keeping focused in long matches, what he learned in umpiring over 5000 matches and I ask him, with all his experience watching the greats play coach, if could he be a tour coach.

Enjoy

Fabio

Have you seen the Functional Tennis Saber? Check it out here and don't miss the video of Stan Wawrinka crushing the ball

This podcast is sponsored by ASICS. ASICS is a Japanese company founded in 1949 with the purpose of giving more people the opportunity to experience how sports and movement can have a positive impact on mental well-being.

To learn more about ASICS visit their website here: https://www.asics.com/nl/en-nl/sports/tennis/

Find us on Social Media:

Instagram: Instagram.com/FunctionalTennis

YouTube: Functional Tennis Podcast

Today is the 5th and final part of our 5 part Asics mini-series which I recorded at the Asics house in Paris. And I chat with Marina Caiazzo, a global sports marketing expert.

Marina is a former player who trained at the Bollitieri Academy with the likes of Tommy Haas and Anna Kournikova. 

Marina worked directly for Asics for 11 years and recently set up her own consultancy business, Sama Sports and is still heavily involved with Sports Marketing for Asics.

She looks after the Asics' global sports strategy, deciding what players to work with, building long-term partnerships, characteristics she looks for in potential players. She played a big part in helping to convince the Asics board to get Novak on board when he was looking to switch from Adidas. She also gives advice for players looking for sponsorship and much more.

If you are here looking to signup for the London Saber - Tap here.

I hope you enjoy the episode

Fabio

Have you seen the Functional Tennis Saber? Check it out here and don't miss the video of Stan Wawrinka crushing the ball

This podcast is sponsored by ASICS. ASICS is a Japanese company founded in 1949 with the purpose of giving more people the opportunity to experience how sports and movement can have a positive impact on mental well-being.

To learn more about ASICS visit their website here: https://www.asics.com/nl/en-nl/sports/tennis/

Find us on Social Media:

Instagram: Instagram.com/FunctionalTennis

YouTube: Functional Tennis Podcast

Today is the 4th part of our 5-part Asics mini-series which I recorded while at the Asics house in Paris.

And I chat to Borna Coric. Borna has recently had shoulder injuries but he is now back stronger than ever and looking extremely fit. I ask him about a characteristic that defines him, his non-negotiables, advice for parents and his advice on how to be 1% better every day.

Hope you enjoy

Fabio

Have you seen the Functional Tennis Saber? Check it out here and don't miss the video of Stan Wawrinka crushing the ball

This podcast is sponsored by ASICS. ASICS is a Japanese company founded in 1949 with the purpose of giving more people the opportunity to experience how sports and movement can have a positive impact on mental well-being.

To learn more about ASICS visit their website here: https://www.asics.com/nl/en-nl/sports/tennis/

Find us on Social Media:

Instagram: Instagram.com/FunctionalTennis

YouTube: Functional Tennis Podcast

Today is the 3rd part of our 5 part Asics mini-series which I recorded while at the Asics house in Paris and I talk to Olympic champion Belinda Bencic.

Belinda chats about her characteristic on the court, aiming for perfection but not expecting it, how to be 1% better every day and some advice for tennis parents. 

Hope you enjoy

Fabio

Have you seen the Functional Tennis Saber? Check it out here and don't miss the video of Stan Wawrinka crushing the ball

This podcast is sponsored by ASICS. ASICS is a Japanese company founded in 1949 with the purpose of giving more people the opportunity to experience how sports and movement can have a positive impact on mental well-being.

To learn more about ASICS visit their website here: https://www.asics.com/nl/en-nl/sports/tennis/

Find us on Social Media:

Instagram: Instagram.com/FunctionalTennis

YouTube: Functional Tennis Podcast

Today I chat with 25-year-old Slovak Alex Molcan. Alex is currently ranked in the top 80 and has a career-high of 36. He’s coached by Novak Djokovic’s former coach Marion Vadja (listen to Marian In episode 90). Alex tells us his main characteristic on the court, the importance of focus and intensity on the practice court as well as the need to chill.

Hope you enjoy

Fabio

Have you seen the Functional Tennis Saber? Check it out here and don't miss the video of Stan Wawrinka crushing the ball

This podcast is sponsored by ASICS. ASICS is a Japanese company founded in 1949 with the purpose of giving more people the opportunity to experience how sports and movement can have a positive impact on mental well-being.

To learn more about ASICS visit their website here: https://www.asics.com/nl/en-nl/sports/tennis/

Find us on Social Media:

Instagram: Instagram.com/FunctionalTennis

YouTube: Functional Tennis Podcast

Today I chat with an Asics athlete Rohan Bopanna. Rohan was one of our first-ever guests on the podcast 4 years ago, he’s one of the nicest guys, on the tour (that I’ve met) and this year at 43 years of age he has re-entered the top 10 with some great wins throughout the year with his partner Matt Ebden. 

Rohan tells me has no cartilage in his knees and how he has managed this as well as what has changed in his game physically and mentally that has him in great form.

Enjoy!

Fabio

Ps. If you are here to find out the name of the Yoga, its called Iyengar yoga 😉

Have you seen the Functional Tennis Saber? Check it out here and don't miss the video of Stan Wawrinka crushing the ball

This podcast is sponsored by ASICS. ASICS is a Japanese company founded in 1949 with the purpose of giving more people the opportunity to experience how sports and movement can have a positive impact on mental well-being.

To learn more about ASICS visit their website here: https://www.asics.com/nl/en-nl/sports/tennis/

Find us on Social Media:

Instagram: Instagram.com/FunctionalTennis

YouTube: Functional Tennis Podcast

This week I caught up with Rene Zandbergen. Rene has worked with our podcast sponsor Asics for 22 years helping develop shoes and working alongside the world's best athletes to help continually improve the Asics range of shoes.

We talk about:

• His 22 years at Asics so far
• Working with Novak to develop his latest shoes, the Court FF3
• The differences in the 3 top Asics tennis shoes, Resolution 9, Solution Speed FF2 and Court FF3
• Finding the right shoes for Juniors
• Using the correct sole for your playing surface
• Sliding on hard courts

It's a really insightful episode into Tennis Shoes and if you are like Novak and always looking for small areas to improve this episode is for you.

Fabio

Have you seen the Functional Tennis Saber? Check it out here and don't miss the video of Stan Wawrinka crushing the ball

This podcast is sponsored by ASICS. ASICS is a Japanese company founded in 1949 with the purpose of giving more people the opportunity to experience how sport and movement can have a positive impact on mental well-being.

To learn more about ASICS visit their website here: https://www.asics.com/nl/en-nl/sports/tennis/

Find us on Social Media:

Instagram: Instagram.com/FunctionalTennis

YouTube: Functional Tennis Podcast

This week on the podcast, I meet parent and coach Cinzia Giovinco.

I met Cinzia during my week at the IMG Future Stars event in Athens, Greece. Cinzia is the parent to 11-year-old Tyson who was competing at the event. She is also the mother to US Billie Jean Cup player Tyra Grant.

In our conversation, Cinzia explains how she manages to balance the involved role in her children’s careers with her own life.

She also describes why parents are the most important influence on the development of junior players and how encouraging kids to have fun is the key to a long career.

Hope you enjoy the insight into the parents of high-level Juniors.

Fabio

Have you seen the Functional Tennis Saber? Check it out here and don't miss the video of Stan Wawrinka crushing the ball

This podcast is sponsored by ASICS. ASICS is a Japanese company founded in 1949 with the purpose of giving more people the opportunity to experience how sport and movement can have a positive impact on mental well-being.

To learn more about ASICS visit their website here: https://www.asics.com/nl/en-nl/sports/tennis/

Find us on Social Media:

Instagram: Instagram.com/FunctionalTennis

YouTube: Functional Tennis Podcast

This week is a bit different to our usual weekly interviews. Recently I was away at the IMG Future Stars which features some of the best under 12's in the world. With an idea from a previous guest I decided to document what I find makes these great tennis kids so good. I was there for a full week and it wasn't a usual tournament where the players and team would leave early if beaten so I got a good chance to watch/learn and listen and gather my thoughts.

These may not be new ideas but they are definitely a reminder of why these kids are so good.

A big thanks to IMG for having me at the event and to the Tatoi Club in Athens for offering their beautiful facilities.

I hope you enjoy the episode.

Fabio

Have you seen the Functional Tennis Saber? Check it out here and don't miss the video of Stan Wawrinka crushing the ball

This podcast is sponsored by ASICS. ASICS is a Japanese company founded in 1949 with the purpose of giving more people the opportunity to experience how sport and movement can have a positive impact on mental wellbeing.

To learn more about ASICS visit their website here: https://www.asics.com/nl/en-nl/sports/tennis/

Find us on Social Media:

Instagram: Instagram.com/FunctionalTennis

YouTube: Functional Tennis Podcast

Twitter: twitter.com/functennis

Website: www.FunctionalTennis.com

This week on the podcast, I speak to top tour coach Mark Gellard.

In our conversation, Mark explains why players need to coach themselves during the game as well as give a strong defence for on-the-court coaching.

We also chat about Mark’s work with Magda Linette and I ask him what the difference is between a top 100 player and a top twenty player.

Hope you enjoy it,

Fabio

Find out more about Mark here on his social and his own podcast account

Podcast: The Diary of a Professional Tennis Coach

Instagram: @coachgellard

Have you seen the Functional Tennis Saber?

Check it out here and don't miss the video of Stan Wawrinka crushing the ball

This podcast is sponsored by ASICS. ASICS is a Japanese company founded in 1949 with the purpose of giving more people the opportunity to experience how sport and movement can have a positive impact on mental wellbeing.

To learn more about ASICS visit their website here: https://www.asics.com/nl/en-nl/sports/tennis/

Find us on Social Media:

Instagram: Instagram.com/FunctionalTennis

YouTube: Functional Tennis Podcast

Twitter: twitter.com/functennis

Website: www.FunctionalTennis.com

This week on the podcast, I meet Amanda Jane Napier Owens - a leading sports and performance psychologist.

In our conversation, we talk about how early we should introduce pressure into the training of tennis juniors, and how we go about doing this. I ask Amanda how to get players fired up before a big game and if this really improves performance.

Dr. Owens gives some really fascinating insight into why anger isn’t effective in tennis, and we also discuss the science behind yips - and how players can stop it from happening to them.

Hope you enjoy it,

Fabio

Have you seen the Functional Tennis Saber?

Check it out here and don't miss the video of Stan Wawrinka crushing the ball

This podcast is sponsored by ASICS. ASICS is a Japanese company founded in 1949 with the purpose of giving more people the opportunity to experience how sports and movement can have a positive impact on mental well-being.

To learn more about ASICS visit their website here: https://www.asics.com/nl/en-nl/sports/tennis/

Find us on Social Media:

Instagram: Instagram.com/FunctionalTennis

YouTube: Functional Tennis Podcast

Twitter: twitter.com/functennis

Website: www.FunctionalTennis.com