Today on the Lucky Letcord Podcast tennis Hall of Famer Steve Flink stops by to break down his thoughts on Novak Djokovic's 2024 season. It has a season that has not met the 24-time major champion's lofty standards, but Flink believes that we have not seen the best of the Serbian legend in 2024. He gives his thoughts on Djokovic's performance at Wimbledon, and his 2024 in general, and points ahead to this year's US Open. Flink also talks about the remarkable rise of Carlos Alcaraz, and singles out a key contributor to the Spaniard's stunning summer. And where does it all leave World No.1 Jannik Sinner? Flink, who has just returned from his 55th Wimbledon, has thoughts on that as well. We also look at the women's side, which was wide open this year, and featured a feel good final between Barbora Krejcikova and Jasmine Paolini in the final. Nothing against the matchup, but Flink would prefer to see the top players in the women's game performing better at Wimbledon? Why were they not in the mix on finals weekend this year, and will Iga Swiatek ever find her footing on the grass. Finally we conclude with the performance of the American men and women at Wimbledon as we look at head to the summer and the US Open. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Lucky Letcord Podcast, Richard Pagliaro and Erik Gudris join to break down Wimbledon 2024: Topics discussed: Krejcikova – How did she pull this off?  Carlitos – what impressed us the most about him during Wimbledon? Iga on grass – is there hope?  What’s next for Novak? Has hiw window for 25 passed him by?  Was it a failure for Sinner, losing to Medvedev? He’s No 1 in the rankings but it feels like he’s a distant No.2 now  Most pleasant surprise for you guys?  Grass is a dangerous surface? But is it more dangerous than it used to be? If so what can be done about it?  American breakdown – who impressed? Who disappointed?  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this week's special preview podcast, Erik Gudris and Richard Pagliaro join Chris Oddo to look ahead to the Wimbledon fortnight. Here are the topics we canvas: Can we really read anything into the grass court warm up results as indicators before Wimbledon? Maybe it’s recency bias but I have my eyes on Keys / Kasatkina. I’d say yes. Huge experience for Alcaraz/ Swiatek/ I think you can pick out positives, and maybe not sweat the negatives.  The draw’s out, did it change anything about the way you view this Wimbledon playing out? To me it worked in Swiatek’s favor a bit because the bottom half is stacked.  Is Djokovic the best men’s grass-court player in history if he wins this title? Federer 192-29 on grass with 19 titles. Djokovic 109-18 with eight titles.             DJOKOVIC 3-1 VS FEDERER AT GRASS AND 3-0 VS FEDERER IN WIMBLEDON FINALS Has Swiatek played herself into favorite status with her performance at Bad Homburg?  How is this year’s draw different, with Russian and Belarusian players in the mix again? How will Wimbledon’s decision to allow them to play impact the fortnight?  What is your most outrageous pick for a run to the semis or beyond? How much has Alcaraz improved on grass – and as a player in general – since last Wimbledon? Won his final 10 sets at Queens. Using the slice. Returning aggression.  Is Medvedev a tad overlooked as a grass-court talent? 35-19 with a title on grass. 8-4 at Wimbledon, missed last year but made second week for the first time in 2021 (Hurkacz) Can we expect anything from Berrettini or Kyrgios?  What do we make of Venus Williams and what does it mean for Wimbledon to have her in the draw?  What do we think of Wozniacki’s comeback? 30 titles No.1 for 71 weeks Slam champion going to be 33. physicality???!!! Your favorite first-rounder, men’s and women’s? You’re favorite potential round of 16 matchup and why? (just one)  Jabeur v Kvitova or Muchova v Sabalenka You’re winners and why? (men’s and women’s)  Does Gauff have a better shot at Swiatek on grass than any other surface? Has lost all 14 sets against her… (AND ONLY ONCE WON MORE THAN FOUR GAMES IN A SET V IGA) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today on the Lucky Letcord Podcast we are joined by Noah Rubin to talk about the inspiration behind the growing tennis social media presence "Behind the Racquet." Noah talks about the origin of the Instagram page, how he shoots the raw photos, and his plans for a gallery showing down the road. He also talks about some of the emotional stories that players have revealed via Behind the Racquet and talks about its role in today's sports social media landscape. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today on the Lucky Letcord Podcast we are live at the BNP Paribas Open, staring down from Stadium 4 bleachers as Naomi Osaka and her team are the first once to commence practice. Just another day in tennis paradise... Join the lucky letcord for an exclusive interview with Aryna Sabalenka. The World No.9 reacts to her second-round victory over Ajla Tomljanovic and tells us why she is so darn good in third sets. She also talks about her chemistry with longtime coach Dmitry Tursunov, her memories of her epic encounter with Naomi Osaka at last year's U.S. Open and her excitement about this year's Fed Cup semis [but not about traveling to Australia for the tie in April]. After the jump we preview a busy day at Indian Wells and reflect on the Williams sisters, noting how we should never take the fact that the Williams sisters are playing Indian Wells for granted. There's also a quick look at Naomi Osaka's win over Kristina Mladenovic and a chat on the Felix Auger-Aliassime's epic win over Stefanos Tsitsipas. Thanks for joining us and don't forget to tell your friends about us if you like the show! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Canadian tennis is off the hook in 2019 and much of the buzz is due to 18-year-old wunderkind Bianca Andreescu. The rising phenom joins Chris Oddo to talk about her breakout 2019, her eclectic style of tennis, how she feels about Simona Halep, what the vibe is like between her and Felix Auger-Aliassime and Denis Shapovalov and how high she wants to go in the rankings in 2019. Join us for this chat and our breakdown of Friday's action at the BNP Paribas Open! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Special guest Olga Savchuk drops by the Lucky Letcord Podcast to talk about her life after tennis. The Former World No.79 talks about her blossoming broadcasting career, her current role as a coach, and gives her views on the future of Ukrainian Tennis. Scroll to 4:00 to check out the interview in its entirety! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on the Lucky Letcord Podcast Richard Pagliaro joins to talk about Naomi Osaka's stunning split with coach Sascha Bajin. He believes that the sky is not falling for the World No.1. We also discuss the impressive title run of Gael Monfils at Rotterdam while also making a point not to overlook the notable performances put in by Stan Wawrinka and Kei Nishikori. We take a peek at the latin swing and admit that we are both mightily impressed by Marco Cecchinato's clay-court game. And we wonder how good American Reilly Opelka might become as we discuss his breakthrough title at the New York Open. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tennis Hall of Famer Steve Flink joins the Lucky Letcord Podcast to break down the incredible performance of World No.1 Novak Djokovic at the 2019 Australian Open. Flink believes that Djokovic has what it takes to make a push for the all-time Grand Slam titles record, and he thinks that push will continue this spring on the clay. We discuss the final with Nadal and wonder what type of a monster year Djokovic will have in 2019. We discuss the amazing achievement of Naomi Osaka and wonder what makes her game so special. We look at the rise of Stefanos Tsitsipas and the fall of Sascha Zverev. What enabled Tsitsipas to make his breakthrough and what is holding Zverev back? We also talk about the shocking finish to Serena Williams' 2019 Australian Open. How will the 23-time major champion recover from her heartbreaking loss to Karolina Pliskova? Episode Specifics: 0:00 - 2:50 INTRO 2:50 Interview with Steve Flink Begins 3:40 Flink on the Final between Rafa and Nole 5:20 Was it surprising how defensive Nadal played? 6:15 How did Djokovic flip the script on Nadal's serve? 7:45 Is Djokovic ready to defeat Nadal on the terre battue? 9:30 How many Slams might Djokovic win in 2019? 11:15 Is Djokovic approaching Masters and smaller events differently now that he's focusing more on winning major titles? 16:20 What does Naomi Osaka have that the other young talents of the game don't have right now? 18:15 Is Serena Williams running out of time and what does she need to do to get back on top of the sport? 19:37 A discussion of two players that seem to be, at least in the short term, headed in different direction: Stefanos Tsitsipas and Alexander Zverev. Thanks for listening! Please rate and review on iTUnes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/the-lucky-letcord-podcast/id1141129184?mt=2 Join us on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2Gp7fldUc5oL8kZjzW9tdI Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today's edition of the Lucy Letcord Podcast we ring in the new year by getting pumped up for the 2019 Australian Open! Richard Pagliaro, Tennis Now's Editor joins the show to talk about several burning topics including: 1. Naomi Osaka's tennis and Naomi Osaka's mind 2. Aryna Sabalenka's brilliant run in Shenzhen 3. Speaking of Osaka and Sabalenka, which player is going to have the better season? 4. The women's game is deep, but which players standout among the early favorites for Slam glory in Melbourne (hint: Kerber) 5. Novak Djokovic is the Aussie Open favorite, but do we think less of his chances after he suffered a loss to Roberto Bautista Agut in Doha? 6. Roger Federer was brilliant at Hopman Cup and he's also a six-time champion in Melbourne. What are his chances of taking the title? 7. Kei Nishikori finally cracked the duck in Brisbane by snapping his three year title drought--does this make him a legit contender in Melbourne. 8. Hopman Cup was once again the perfect way to ring in the tennis new year -- so why then we ask does IT HAVE TO GO AWAY? We discuss its fate, and possible alternatives... Thanks for listening, please subscribe, rate and review on iTunes, and HAPPY NEW YEAR! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on the Lucky Letcord Podcast we chat with rising American Mackie McDonald. The former NCAA singles and doubles champion made a massive mark on the ATP Tour in 2018, rising 100 spots in the rankings to finish at 76 in the world. After qualifying for the Australian Open and winning his first Grand Slam main draw match, McDonald would press on and turns heads at Wimbledon, where he reached the second week. ***The interview begins at 2:30*** 3:52 McDonald on what changed for him in 2018. 4:25 We asked the 23-year-old about what it was like to face the best players that the sport has to offer, and what ranking goal he has set for 2019. Other topics discussed: 5:45 Are there some things that work in college and challengers that don’t cut it at ATP level? 7:00 How the run in Australia was a spark for the whole campaign. 7:45 How does a higher ranking change the way he will plan for 2019? 8:48 How big was making the second week of Wimbledon for his confidence, and why is he a natural fit for grass? 11:30 What does he pick up when he watches players of similar stature like Kei Nishikori and David Goffin on tour? 14:10 How mental toughness is a key to his success. 15:15 What are some of the other memories that made 2018 special? 20:00 What will McDonald and team work on in Florida as they prepare for the Aussie summer? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this week's edition of the Lucky Letcord Podcast, Tennis Now editor Richard Pagliaro joins the show to discuss the week that was in tennis. We break down the Paris Masters which featured a breakthrough Masters 1000 title from 22-year-old Russian Karen Khachanov. Richard thinks this big man is destined for greatness not unlike his Paris predecessor Marat Safin and maybe even more. We also discuss the brilliant semifinal between Novak Djokovic and Roger Federer. What does it say about the state of one of tennis's greatest rivalries and what does it tell us about Roger Fededer's hopes of reclaiming glory at the majors in 2019? We also wonder about Djokovic in the present? Did he simply hit the wall in Paris and will be back, as menacing as ever, to rule the World Tour Finals next week in London? Other topics discussed: The improved form of Dominic Thiem on hardcourts will certainly help him get his ranking higher in the future, but is he a future No.1? Kei Nishikori has been brilliant all season--he's our fairy tale pick in London--but why does he struggle to win the big one? Thanks to all for listening! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's semi-final time at the WTA Finals in Singapore and we're chatting with veteran tennis journalist Ros Satar of Britwatch Sports. Ros joins the Lucky Letcord from Singapore, where she is covering the 5th and final Singapore edition of the WTA Finals. We break down the week that was in Singapore, and chat about what went wrong for those who didn't reach the semis. Other topics discussed: Caroline Wozniacki's rheumatoid arthritis diagnosis and how the Dane could be a big inspiration in 2019. Naomi Osaka's wild ride, how it ended and what she might do next. Angelique Kerber: A great season ends without a coach? Of course, we preview today's blockbuster semifinal matchups between Elina Svitolina and Kiki Bertens and Sloane Stephens and Karolina Pliskova. Finally Ros tells us who is going to win the whole darn thing! Thanks for listening! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this week's Lucky Letcord Podcast Richard Pagliaro joins Chris Oddo to discuss the happenings at Madrid and look ahead to Rome. Some show notes: Discussion of Carlitos in Madrid and his clay game | 19-1 on clay this season, 58-12 overall | Is it his best surface, even though he says he prefers clay? Question for Richard: IS ALCARAZ YOUR RG FAVORITE AT THE MOMENT, KEEPING IN MIND IT COULD CHANGE IF NOVAK PLAYS WELL IN ROME?  Rafa on the brink/ Nole let’s wait and see -- what does the status of Nadal and Djokovic mean for the rest of the tour and how do we feel about the chances of our 22-time Grand Slam champions, given that they are way behind in their preparation? Sabalenka gets it done in Madrid | 5 finals already this year, previous career best was four | 29-4 on the season | We ask Richard: what’s the difference in your opinion?  IS IGA STILL THE PLAYER TO BEAT ON THE SLOWER CLAY?  Reminder: Keep an eye on Sinner... Sinner - 40-18 (.833 lifetime) on clay 5-1 this year… quarterfinal at rome last year / week two at RG three years in a row!  WTA others: Krejcikova / Kasatkina / Ons Jabeur (if healthy) / Garcia/ Sakkari / Gauff / Kudermetova / Ostapenko  HUGE OPPORTUNITY FOR ATP PLAYERS WITH RAFA QUESTIONS, RUUD QUESTIONS, NOLE INJURY CLOUD, MEDVEDEV NOT AS DANGEROUS ON THIS SURFACE -  GAUFF’S STRUGGLES? How can she shore up her game in time for Roland-Garros, where she is defending runner-up points? A discussion on #CakeGate? Really, you think silencing the doubles finalists is a viable solution, Madrid? Wow.... Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on the Lucky Letcord Podcast Tennis Now's Editor joins Chris Oddo to talk about an amazing week in tennis. We actually didn't plan to do a podcast this week, but so many amazing achievements went down we felt it was only right. We discuss: 1. The incredible titles of Stefanos Tsitsipas, Kyle Edmund and Karen Khachanov and what that means for each going forward? 2. What are the upsides of the aforementioned players and which player will reach the Top 10 first? 3.Which of the three will be No.1, if any? 4. We also discuss the first four Days of the WTA Finals and take a crack at picking a winner. Don't laugh, we don't claim to be smart. 5. We finish with a discussion of Daria Kasatkina. She's won a big title in Moscow and now resides in the Top 10--can she go higher and is she ready to win a Slam NOW? THANKS FOR LISTENING! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on the Lucky Letcord Podcast Tennis Now's editor Richard Pagliaro joins to help us debate the WTA's year-end awards. 1. Player of the Year Halep/Wozniacki/Kerber/Osaka/Kvitova 2. Doubles Team of the Year 3. Most Improved 4. Best Newcomer 5. Comeback Player of the year Then we dive into a discussion of Novak Djokovic's amazing performance at Shanghai, asking: 1. Is he going to finish the year No.1? 2. How long is this run going to continue? 3. What is it about him that makes him such a force? We also discuss our picks for coach of the year, making mention of many significant coaching contributions in 2018, and of course, leaving a few out (sorry Jan Dewitt!) And finally -- what should we make of Roger Federer's performance in Shanghai and what can we expect from the Swiss now that Novak Djokovic has returned to dominance? Thanks for listening! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On today's edition of the Lucky Letcord Podcast we dial up 14-year-old Coco Gauff, who is currently off training at the Patrick Mouratoglou Tennis Academy, to discuss her new feature on Whistle Sports, called "No Days Off." Gauff is the reigning Roland Garros Girls' Singles champion, and she's the youngest to win that title in 25 years. She's also the youngest U.S. Open Girls' Singles finalist in history. We caught up with the Florida-born world traveler to discuss her blossoming career, what it's been like to compete at the pro level and how Patrick Mouratoglou and his academy have impacted her career. We also discuss her family and how they are helping her achieve her dreams, what she plans to for the rest of the year and how she feels about being labeled as the next Serena Williams so young. The interview begins at the 2:00 mark of the podcast. Before you listen, jump over to Whistle Sports and watch the seven-minute video for the series "No Days Off." https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oEhvQJ_OlDI Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today on the Lucky Letcord Podcast Tennis Now's Editor Richard Pagliaro joins to talk about the stellar achievement of Naomi Osaka, who becomes the first Grand Slam champion in Japanese tennis history by defeating Serena Williams in a final that was--unfortunately--marred by controversy. We discuss: 1. It's vitally important to start with the real star of the day -- her name is Naomi Osaka. 2. Should Carlos Ramos have been more flexible and issued a soft warning to Serena Williams. 3. Serena's complex relationship with the U.S. Open -- why? 4. What was it like being there--Richard gives the scoop. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today on the Lucky Letcord Podcast we take a peek inside the inner workings of the 2018 U.S. Open as we chat with tournament host and presenter Blair Henley to find out: What's it like to talk to champion's moments after some of their greatest achievement? How in the heck do you manage to get all those player name's pronounced correctly? Who is that strange dancing lady on Granstand? What have been Blair's favorite moments of this year's tournament? Is it really THAT HOT IN NYC? How is the business end of the Open shaping up and what do the men's semifinals look like? How should Roger Federer announce his retirement to the world? Yeah, we discussed a lot! Thanks to Blair for making herself available! Follow her on Twitter @BlairHenley! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today on the Lucky Letcord Podcast we wonder out loud... Has Roger Federer lost the fire in the belly? Is Rafael Nadal's rough draw going to catch up with him when he meets Del Potro? What does Dominic Thiem's breakout U.S. Open say about his future on hardcourts? There's a roof over tonight's Women's semifinals? Huh? Can Naomi Osaka stay hot and run the table in NYC? Will Serena Williams still be winning majors when she's 46? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today at LLC Pod we break down Day 7. Empty Promises from Nick Kyrgios what needs to be done? How about Alexander Zverev and Elina Svitolina, what do they need to do to breakthrough? How good is Dominic Thiem on hardcourts now and will it be good enough to compete with three-time USOpen champ Nadal? Sloane Stephens title defense = on track in NYC Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today on the Lucky Let we look at the similarities between the comebacks of Victoria Azarenka and Stan Wawrinka, who both fell today in straight sets. Of course we look back at Serena Williams victory over her sister Venus. We talk a bit about how Serena's Quarter of Death has now become, well, less deadly. We give a nod to Rafa and Sloane, the defending champs who both came through today. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today on the Lucky Letcord Podcast the venerable Steve Flink joins us moments after Angelique Kerber's 6-3, 6-3 victory over Serena Williams in the Wimbledon Ladies' Singles final. We talk about the importance of Kerber's victory, how she got it done, and what went wrong for Serena as well as where she might go from here. We also preview Sunday's men's singles final, which features a rejuvanated Novak Djokovic and Kevin Anderson. Of course we debate the topic that has been on everybody's mind since Day 11 brought us a 6 hour, 36 minute semifinal that tossed the final weekend's scheduling into disarray. Should we or shouldn't we go to a fifth-set breaker at all majors? Steve weighs in on that and the bizarre twist to Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic's semifinal, which was played over two days and under a roof despite bright sunny skies on Saturday at Wimbledon. As, always, thanks for listening, and please, if you like the podcast, please take the time to rate and review us on iTunes. Thanks -- the management. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today's episode of the Lucky Letcord Podcast we look at the domination of American women at the Championships. Americans have won 57 Ladies' Singles titles at Wimbledon, 21 more than the next closest nation, and the Williams sisters have dominated the lawns of the All England Club like no other duo since 2000, winning 12 of the 18 Ladies' Singles titles at SW19. Serena will bid for her eighth Wimbledon title on Saturday against Germany's Angelique Kerber, and we preview what could be an historic day for Williams while also looking at two American future stars, Cori "Coco" Gauff and Claire Liu. Thanks for listening and enjoy Day 11 of the Championships! As always, a rate and review fo the podcast would be helpful. Thanks -- the management. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on the Lucky Letcord Podcast Richard Pagliaro joins host Chris Oddo to break down a fun week of February tennis across the globe. We start with Iga Swiatek's run of dominance in Doha and then enter a discussion of Aryna Sabalenka's goal of chasing the No.1 ranking. Is it even possible? What would it take? What do we think of Sabalenka's attitude? Next, we move to Rotterdam where Daniil Medvedev has made a strong statement of intent by claiming the title. Jannik Sinner, the runner-up who falls to 0-5 lifetime vs Medvedev, was also strong. What did we see from Medvedev that we have not seen of late? Next, it's over to Buenos Aires, where Carlos Alcaraz made a swift return to the podium by winning his 7th career title. How good did he look and what makes this teenager one of the most compelling watches in the sport right now? Meanwhile, another player, Austria's Dominic Thiem, continues to struggle - what gives? We also discuss Novak Djokovic's 377th week at No.1 and Taylor Fritz' push for the top five. Thanks for listening!!!! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today on the Lucky Letcord Podcast we are joined by Wimbledon Channel Presenter Nick McCarvel.  Nick is a rising tennis journalist that works for all four of the majors as well as many other tennis tournaments and outlets. He can currently be found fom now until the end of the Wimbledon fortnight on the Wimbledon Channel.  Follow the Wimbledon Channel on Twitter here Today we discussed Nick's beginnings as a tennis journalist, from his first New York Times byline, which came at Wimbledon in 2009 (oops) and discuss his transition from behind the scenes covering the Grand Slam beat as a USA Today contributor to his current role behind the camera.  We discuss the art of the interview and Nick's philosophy on putting the athlete first.  We discuss the one interview that Nick would most like to conduct.  And, of course, WE BREAK DOWN DAY 8!!!! It's women's quarterfinals day at Wimbledon and we're all pretty darn excited about it.  Thanks to Nick for joining us and thanks to all our listeners.  Visit the Wimbledon Channel by firing up your Wimbledon app and clicking on the big Wimbledon Channel Box.  You could also visit the Wimbledon Channel playlist on YouTube. Or just go to Wimbledon.com.  Cheerio!  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today's edition of the Lucky Letcord Podcast sponsored by Tennis Express we preview Wimbledon's manic Monday with the venerable Steve Flink. Steve was inducted into the International Hall of Fame in 2017 for his intrepid work as a tennis journalism and he is attending Wimbledon for the 42nd consecutive year. Topics discussed: The chaotic first week on the women's side, in which an unprecedented number of seeds failed to reach the second week. The rise of Serena Williams, through the chaos. The intrigue on the bottom half of the men's singles draw where Rafael Nadal, Novak Djokovic and Juan Martin del Potro are all jockeying for position to reach the final. We also hear from: Daria Kasatkina on her amazing success returning serve in week one. Kasatkina also weighs in on the seeds scattering (hint: she doesn't care) Karen Khachanov talks about how he adapts his game for grass as he prepares to face Novak Djokovic in the round of 16. Jelena Ostapenko talks about bouncing back from a difficult Roland Garros. As always, thanks for listening, and please rate and review us on iTunes if you have a moment--it would mean a lot to us. Thanks! -- the management. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Australian Tennis Journalist Matt Trollope (@MattyAT) joins the podcast to discuss a massive Day 6 at Wimbledon for the Aussie stars. Topics discussed include: Thoughts on the struggles of Top 10 seeds on the women's side at Wimbledon. A take on rise of 19-year-old Alex de Minaur. The role of Lleyton Hewitt in de Minaur's development and Hewitt's overall effect on Australian tennis. The play of Nick Kyrgios with a look-ahead to his clash with Kei Nishikori. A nod to undercovered and steadily improving Matthew Ebden. What can we expect from Ash Barty on Day 6? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today on the Lucky Letcord Podcast we break down the unprecedented carnage that seeds have seen in the first two rounds at Wimbledon. We chat briefly with Stefanos Tsitsipas about the "dive heard 'round Wimbledon." We ask Dominiki Cibulkova why she serves like she's 10-feet tall at Wimbledon. Denis Shapovalov talks about wanting to win at Wimbledon too much. We say farewell to Frenchman Julien Benneteau after his final singles match at Wimbledon and ask him about his memories and what's next. Thanks for listening -- please rate and review on iTunes if you like the show! --the Management Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today on the Lucky Let Cord Podcast we hear from Denis Shapovalov ahead of his second-round tilt with Benoit Paire and discuss Caroline Wozniacki's comments about Ekaterina Makarova after the Dane was knocked out of Wimbledon on Day 3. We also briefly dig into Serena Williams serving and sense of humor, and hear a take from Roger Federer on the anniversary of his epic 2008 Wimbledon final with a man named Rafa. Thanks for listening! Please rate and review on Itunes and tell your friends... -- the management Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We break down a frantic Day 1 of Wimbledon, hearing from Denis Shapovalov about his Day 2 matchup with Jeremy Chardy, and getting a lesson in match point saved history from Agnieszka Radwanska. We also discuss Roger Federer's Mega Uniqlo deal and Stefanos Tsitsipas' first Wimbledon win. Now we must sleep! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brad Gilbert of ESPN and Reem Abulleil of Sport 360 and Wimbledon.com join Chris Oddo to talk all things Wimbledon on the eve of Wimbledon. Talking Points, Brad Gilbert interview: 1:40 Brad Gilbert's on Roger Federer's Current grass-court form 2:37 What does Borna Coric's Halle tite mean? 3:43 Does Federer have a bad draw, and does it even matter? 5:05 A look at Nadal (and Brad is tabbing him to win) 7:45 Is there any hope for Shapovalov, Tsitsipas and Coric this year at Wimbledon? 9:45 Brad guesses his Wimbledon record perfectly. 10:45 Brad talks about playing on Centre Court for the one and only time. 14:25 Brad tabs Petra Kvitova for the title. 17:20 will Novak Djokovic have a major under his belt by the end of the season? Talking points, Reem Abulleil interview: 23:15 Reem discusses the many hats she's wearing at Wimbledon this year. 24:15 An introduction to the qualifying scene at Roehampton 26:30 We discuss the key qualifying storylines. 30:20 What did we learn from Serena Williams presser re: Deadspin article? 31:55 Wait, Roger Federer was tested by anti-doping seven times in a month? 34:38 A pair of Tunisian's will bid to make their mark at Wimbledon on Day 1 38:10 Is Nick Kyrgios a contender at Wimbledon? He sounds focused, says Reem. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jose Higueras joins the Tennis Now podcast to talk about his role as the USTA's Director of coaching. Items discussed: The steady progress of American youngsters, but Higueras cautions that the hard part is just beginning. Why Jose took the job and how his role with USTA has evolved. The beautiful new USTA facility near Orlando, Florida. Who was the toughest player Higueras ever faced? Is best-of-three or best-of-five better at majors? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A discussion of greatness in sport, with Serena Williams as the lead example. Diving into the implications of her Nike ad, which dubs her the greatest athlete of all-time. We chat with USA Today columnist Nick McCarvel about Williams and the ubiquitous advertisement. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week's Tennis Now Podcast features former ATP star Taylor Dent. The former world No. 21 currently heads the Dent Tennis Academy and coaches breakout American star Jared Donaldson. We chat with Dent about Donaldson's breakout success in New York, as well as the present and future of his academy. Plus, what it was like to train with Roger Federer in Dubai for three weeks, and which players could make a run for the men's singles title. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week the Lucky Letcord Podcast welcomes special guest Aleks Kovacevic. A former NCAA All-American at Illinois, Kovacevic has transitioned seamlessly to the ATP Tour over the last 18 months. He was 370 in the rankings this time last year but now sits at 125 -- a stone's throw from the top 100 -- after claiming his maiden challenger title in Cleveland on Sunday. Host Chris Oddo talks to the 24-year-old about the difficulties of transitioning into the pro game and the highs and lows of his first formative months on tour. We run through Kovacevic's journey to South Korea last year, where he made his ATP debut in Seoul and powered into the semifinals with wins over Miomir Kecmanovic, Jason Tseng and Mackenzie McDonald. It's not so much about hitting a high level, Kovacevic tells the podcast, it's about hitting a high level consistently. Kovacevics talks about his difficult trip to Australia this year and then reflects on what it was like watching his good friends JJ Wolf and Ben Shelton battle for a spot in the quarterfinals in Melbourne. Naturally, there were some mixed emotions but ultimately the rise of the American men is giving Kovacevic reason to believe he can soon be there too. We also get an inside view on the emotional pitfalls of spending life on the road full-time, and get a coaching update. Thanks to Aleks for joining and thanks to y'all for listening!!!! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on the Tennis Now Podcast we preview the 2016 U.S. Open draw. Tennis Channel columnist Steve Flink joins to talk about Monica Puig and Juan Martin del Potro's chances of backing up their Olympic success and debate the chances of Andy Murray and Novak Djokovic. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this edition of the Tennis Now Tennis Podcast we talk about the race to No. 1 in the WTA, plus Karolina Pliskova, Marin Cilic and more. Tennis Now contributor Erik Gudris joins us to debate. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Richard Pagliaro, managing editor at TennisNow.com, and former U.S. Olympian Andrea Leand review the gold-medal runs of Andy Murray, who outdueled a resurgent Juan Martin del Potro in the final, and surprising Monica Puig. They also look at this week’s WTA event in Cincinnati, where Angelique Kerber can displace Serena Williams atop the rankings. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on the Tennis Now Podcast we relive the glory of an unbelievably compelling week of tennis in Rio. We tip our caps to those who didn't medal and pay homage to some of the greatest achievements of the Games. Tennis Now Richard Pagliaro joins the podcast to talk about the implications of Andy Murray's back-to-back Gold medals plus the raw emotions of an Olympics that featured inspiring performance from Monica Puig, Rafael Nadal, Juan Martin del Potro and more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tennis Now's Tennis Podcast- Rio Olympic Podcast Aug 10. A new podcast with Host Chris Oddo and Richard Pagliaro Tennis guru's. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Richard Pagliaro joins Chris Oddo to break down the finals of the 2023 Australian Open. We pay special attention to Novak Djokovic, and his incredible triumph in Melbourne, where he won his 22nd major and 10th AO title, discussing everything from his post-victory emotions to his hamstring to his bulletproof game and aura. Of course we've got time for Stefanos Tsitsipas after a breakthrough run to the final in Melbourne - what did the Greek do right? What did he do wrong? Moving on to Aryna Sabalenka, the first-time Slam winner who took out Aryna Sabalanka in an absolutely epic final, we talk about the Belarussian's passion and dedication, how she rebuilt her serve - and her mindset - to conquer this massive challenge. And what does the AO tell us about the aura of Iga going forward? We made time for a brief discussion of it, naturally. Then onto Stefano Vukov and Elena Rybakina and the controversy that surrounded them in Melbourne. What can we take away? How can we all grow from this? Thanks for listening! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Alex Gruskin of Cracked Racquets joins Chris Oddo to talk about the fantastic performances of the American men at this year's Australian Open. You can find Alex's brilliant work at Crackedracquets.com, he hosts several podcasts, covering NCAA tennis and the pro game as well, and also works as a commentator for the Tennis Channel. Cracked Racquets Gruskin on Twitter: Topics discussed: Tommy Paul -- why is he the last American standing and what is his long-term upside? How is the Paul of 2023 different from previous versions of himself, which elements of his arsenal have been sharpened and why is he able to muster such success against the Top-5? What are his chances against Novak Djokovic and what could the rest of the season look like for him? Ben Shelton -- how has this kid come from out of nowhere to be such a force? What are his assets, why are they so effective and what are some of the elements of his game that could improve to make him even better? Shelton has emerged as a fan favorite - what is it about him that makes fans gravitate to him? JJ Wolf - He was edged by Shelton in the round of 16, but he's clearly another American on the rise. What are his weapons and how has he changed since his college tennis days? He's kinda cool, and Alex says if it's true, it's mainly due to his sister... Sebi Korda -- will the smooth striker one day be best in class for the Americans? Fritz and Tiafoe - They didn't join the party for long in Australia, but for now they are the leaders. Next, a breakdown of the women's singles final between Aryna Sabalenka and Elena Rybakina, followed by a discussion of Friday night's men's semifinals, which Tsitsipas fans are gonna love... Thanks for joining Alex! Make sure you follow Mr. Gruskin on Twitter and check out all his work -- trust us, you will learn a lot about tennis from this passionate tennis freak! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Richard Pagliaro and Erik Gudris join host Chris Oddo to talk about a wonderful week one in Melbourne. Topics Discussed: Rafa's future? Is there more glory to come? If not Novak, then who? A discussion of potential winners of the men's singles crown in Melbourne, and the form and fitness of the nine-time champ. Iga's aura, is it still intact? Netflix curse? Is it real? Is it fun? Is it annoying? Can it be all three? Andy Murray, let us count the ways we love you. Sam Stosur, let us count the ways we love you. American men, y'all are so good! Sebastian Korda and the art of closing matches. An improving work in progress. So much more! Thanks for listening and supporting! Emotional moments of week one (our faves) ENJOY WEEK TWO!!!! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Erik Gudris, Tennis Now's resident film buff, joins the podcast to discuss Netflix new tennis docuseries, Break Point, and Richard Pagliaro joins to help Erik break down the draws and key storylines at the 2023 Australian Open. Host Chris Oddo, as always, is there to lend moral support! Thanks for listening! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join Chris Oddo and Richard Pagliaro as we look back at an eventful opening week of the 2023 tennis season and look forward to the Australian Open. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The New York Times journalist spent more than two decades chronicling the fantastic career of Roger Federer, and in his book he turns over every rock to find out more about the formative years of the legendary Swiss, so that we may better comprehend what made Federer the player he was. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

ON this week's Wimbledon preview podcast Richard Pagliaro and Erik Gudris join host Chris Oddo to break down the men's and women's singles draws at this year's Championships. Key topics discussed: What to expect from Novak Djokovic Andy Murray's last dance Iga Swiatek's tricky draw and lack of grass matches Coco Gauff's chances We reveal our picks for the singles titles Our fave first-round matchups Unseeded and dangerous players Who will make a better commentator: Nick Kyrgios or John Isner? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Richard Pagliaro and Erik Gudris join host Chris Oddo to talk all things US Open, including Serena Williams, the men's and women's singles draw, Rafael Nadal and Daniil Medvedev and what the absence of Novak Djokovic means for the tournament and going forward. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Richard Pagliaro joins Chris Oddo not long after the Wimbledon draws were released to talk about who landed where and what the key storylines are for the Championships in 2022. Join us for in-depth discussions on the following: Serena Williams - how did she look at Eastbourne and what can we really expect from her at SW19? Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic - who got the better draw? Matteo Berrettini - is he the No.2 favorite based on his performance at Stuttgart and Queen's? Bianca Andreescu - what makes her a threat on the grass? Is Petra Kvitova finding her mojo? If not Iga Swiatek, then which woman could raise the Venus Rosewater Dish? Key first-round matchups, now that we have the draw. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices