Ground Pass: A Tennis Podcast

The Australian Open is officially underway and we are feeling the FOMO. We get into Federer taking over Melbourne, why the One Point Slam was the best pre-tournament idea in years, and what Aussie Open Fan Week says about where tennis is headed. Then we run through Adelaide, Auckland, and Hobart winners, the WTA Next Gen wave, how the draw works, the qualifiers we’re watching, and the first-round matchups we are circling. Plus: how we’re watching from home and what’s coming next from Ground Pass, including the OFF SEASON premiere on January 18 at 4 PM ET. - https://youtu.be/0U3F4CfUsh0?si=e0kDZH3qfxfaojX7 Links:Link send us a Question - https://www.groundpasspodcast.com/voice-memoGround Pass Patreon - https://www.patreon.com/cw/GroundPassPodcastOne Point Slam video - https://www.youtube.com/live/TengZOvRTlc?si=41jm60KZfHx1lZ-N Our Draw explanation show - https://youtu.be/2-F1wmPcnLQ?si=Xu1YJk2q0xtu7u9R Chapters:00:00 Intro - Welcome to the Australian Open05:01 Recent Tournament Recap: Adelaide, Auckland & Hobart10:10 Next Gen Players Making Waves20:55 Looking back at the Australian Open Fan Week32:13 Our Australian Open Preview41:52 Spotlight on Qualifiers47:27 Exciting Matches to Watch52:26 How to Watch the Australian Open54:53 Upcoming Projects and Wrap-UpWe have Merch!!! Ground Pass Shop - https://www.groundpasspodcast.com/ground-pass-shop 💬 Don’t forget to give us a rating and drop us a comment ⭐️Subscribe to Our Substack at - https://groundpass.substack.com Visit Our Website at - www.groundpasspodcast.com Email us at - groundpasspodcast@gmail.com Follow us for daily updates on Social:Threads: https://www.threads.net/@ground_pass Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/groundpass.bsky.social Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ground_pass Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@GroundPass TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@groundpasspodcast X: https://x.com/groundpasspodDisclaimer: This video does not contain a paid for advertisement. PR samples are denoted by the term ‘ad - gifted’. Links containing ad affiliate links are denoted by a '*'. This means that if you click on an affiliate link, go through to the retailer and purchase an item, we will receive a small percentage of your purchase. Check out our website for a full disclaimer: https://www.groundpasspodcast.com/about  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Qualifying is here, so we’re jumping in early with a full Australian Open preview featuring Lucy Deuce (Black Spin Global). We answer a Ground Pass Hotline question about watching player practices at tournaments, share a listener voice memo from the United Cup in Sydney, and break down the first week of the season across Brisbane, Auckland, Hong Kong, and the United Cup. Plus: who looks ready for a deep run, who might need more reps, the WTA next wave showing up fast, what makes Grand Slam qualifying so brutal, and the names we’re watching this week as the main draw gets close.Links:Lucy Deuce on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lucyydeuce?igsh=MWM2MGVrZDhsbjd1cA== || Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lucy.deuce?_r=1&_t=ZP-9315gur7Ev0Brad Stine Interview - https://youtu.be/tcodbF-e3EY?si=-drGONmLmLyMsvs4Sincaraz from the plane - https://x.com/skysports/status/2010721025051209946?s=46&t=34KFRaMxpc-93mq_1EOI7APrime france show - https://youtu.be/m8MMXHsO34o?si=36YJQJsvtFMi5UaXChapters:00:00 Introduction03:35 Groundpass Hotline: Viewer Questions11:19 A Voice Note from the United Cup15:57 Week 1 of the 2026 Season - United Cup, Brisbane & Auckland23:31 Who is looking good & who is not in week 133:28 The Storylines you might have missed in week 140:27 Australian Open Preview47:08 A Tangent: The Role of Coaches in Tennis52:42 Key Storylines for the Australian Open57:55 A Sincaraz Tangent 01:03:30 Understanding the Qualifying Rounds01:05:43 Spotlight on Qualifying Players01:16:26 How to Watch the Australian Open01:19:30 Upcoming Tournaments and Player Highlights01:23:35 Player of the Fortnight01:30:03 OutroWe have Merch!!! Ground Pass Shop - https://www.groundpasspodcast.com/ground-pass-shop 💬 Don’t forget to give us a rating and drop us a comment ⭐️Subscribe to Our Substack at - https://groundpass.substack.com Visit Our Website at - www.groundpasspodcast.com Email us at - groundpasspodcast@gmail.com Follow us for daily updates on Social:Threads: https://www.threads.net/@ground_pass Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/groundpass.bsky.social Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ground_pass Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@GroundPass TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@groundpasspodcast X: https://x.com/groundpasspodDisclaimer: This video does not contain a paid for advertisement. PR samples are denoted by the term ‘ad - gifted’. Links containing ad affiliate links are denoted by a '*'. This means that if you click on an affiliate link, go through to the retailer and purchase an item, we will receive a small percentage of your purchase. Check out our website for a full disclaimer: https://www.groundpasspodcast.com/about  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Season 3 starts with a guest I have been wanting to bring on for ages. Content creator Elliemajelly joins us to talk about what it’s really like traveling the tennis tour alongside her boyfriend, doubles player James Watt, and why tennis content is having a major moment right now. We also kick off the year with a United Cup Q&A (yes, the points are confusing), our new weekly newsletter Ground Pass Weekly, and a quick look at what’s next on the Aussie swing. Plus: the sponsor shakeups are wild, the player vlogs are multiplying, Arthur Fils shares a tough injury update, and Venus Williams is back.Links:Link to Sweatsuit preorder (closes january 19th) - https://www.groundpasspodcast.com/shop/gp-holiday-collectionLink send us a Question - https://www.groundpasspodcast.com/voice-memoSubscribe to Newsletter here - https://groundpass.substack.comGround Pass Patreon - https://patreon.com/GroundPassPodcast?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink Hard court article - https://open.substack.com/pub/hardcourt/p/wilson-alex-de-minaur-karen-khachanov-jiri-lehecka?utm_campaign=post-expanded-share&utm_medium=post%20viewer Chapters:00:00 Introduction to Season 312:44 Elliemajelly: The Origin of a Unique Name16:58 Transitioning from Corporate to Tennis Content Creation24:55 Challenges of Recording at Tournaments27:39 Future Plans and Aspirations in Tennis Content30:11 Excitement for Upcoming Tournaments33:00 The United Cup and Current Tennis Events37:49 Innovations in Tennis: The United Cup Experience46:45 The Return of Tennis: Highlights from the United Cup52:47 Apparel Sponsorship Shifts: A New Era in Tennis Fashion59:52 The Rise of Player Vlogs01:12:00 Upcoming Tournaments and Player Highlights01:14:10 OutroWe have Merch!!! Ground Pass Shop - https://www.groundpasspodcast.com/ground-pass-shop 💬 Don’t forget to give us a rating and drop us a comment ⭐️Subscribe to Our Substack at - https://groundpass.substack.com Visit Our Website at - www.groundpasspodcast.com Email us at - groundpasspodcast@gmail.com Follow us for daily updates on Social:Threads: https://www.threads.net/@ground_pass Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/groundpass.bsky.social Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ground_pass Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@GroundPass TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@groundpasspodcast X: https://x.com/groundpasspodDisclaimer: This video does not contain a paid for advertisement. PR samples are denoted by the term ‘ad - gifted’. Links containing ad affiliate links are denoted by a '*'. This means that if you click on an affiliate link, go through to the retailer and purchase an item, we will receive a small percentage of your purchase. Check out our website for a full disclaimer: https://www.groundpasspodcast.com/about  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Season 2 ends with a proper tennis reset. We preview the United Cup and the early-week matchups we cannot wait for, then zoom out to the cultural moment of Heated Rivalry and why tennis still struggles to embrace sports entertainment without nitpicking it to death. Plus, we unpack the Carlos Alcaraz and Juan Carlos Ferrero split, the latest on Jack Draper missing the Australian swing, and the small sign Nike might be taking tennis kits seriously again. Also, a quick tease of what’s coming next for Ground Pass in 2026.Links:Marca Article with Juan Carlos Ferrero: https://www.marca.com/tenis/2025/12/24/ferrero-forma-jugar-carlos-me-tenia-enamorado-mejor-historia.html MTP - Nick McCarvel: https://youtu.be/Kl937_u-C-U?si=HjdkOeTpSeSX1fWw MTP - Brad Stine: https://youtu.be/tcodbF-e3EY?si=ZkO6hcPyCucBHbot Off Season Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/offseasontv/ Chapters:00:00 Intro03:46 Heated Rivalry and Its Impact on Sports Media18:52 Carlos Alcaraz and Juan Carlos Ferrero's Split30:26 United Cup Preview36:18 Team Dynamics and Predictions for the United Cup41:55 Analyzing the United Cup's Impact on Player Performance47:13 Key Matches to Watch in the United Cup53:36 Tennis News and Ground Pass Updates58:40 Nike's Potential Return to Tennis Fashion01:01:48 Ground Pass Update01:09:52 What's Next On Tour?01:13:01 OutroWe have Merch!!! Ground Pass Shop - https://www.groundpasspodcast.com/ground-pass-shop 💬 Don’t forget to give us a rating and drop us a comment ⭐️Subscribe to Our Substack at - https://groundpass.substack.com Visit Our Website at - www.groundpasspodcast.com Email us at - groundpasspodcast@gmail.com Follow us for daily updates on Social:Threads: https://www.threads.net/@ground_pass Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/groundpass.bsky.social Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ground_pass Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@GroundPass TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@groundpasspodcast X: https://x.com/groundpasspodDisclaimer: This video does not contain a paid for advertisement. PR samples are denoted by the term ‘ad - gifted’. Links containing ad affiliate links are denoted by a '*'. This means that if you click on an affiliate link, go through to the retailer and purchase an item, we will receive a small percentage of your purchase. Check out our website for a full disclaimer: https://www.groundpasspodcast.com/about  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What do Jim Courier and Tommy Paul have in common? Brad Stine. In this Meet the Professionals episode, Brad takes us from the early 90s to today’s tour, breaking down what great coaching actually looks like. We talk trust, team size, travel, on-court coaching, and why tennis coaches still do not get the household-name shine of NBA or NFL coaches.Chapters:00:00 Intro00:56 Meet Brad Stine: Introduction to Coaching and Early Aspirations04:31 The Journey into Coaching06:36 Transitioning to the Pro ATP Tour10:49 Coaching in the Modern Era18:21 The Multifaceted Role of a Coach25:43 The Psychological Aspects of Coaching29:27 Building Trust with Players35:08 The Evolution of Coaching in Tennis43:11 Visibility and Recognition of Coaches50:45 Responsibility and Accountability in Coaching54:48 The Unsung Heroes of Coaching01:00:18 The Future of Tennis Coaching01:16:31 Quickfire Insights and Final Thoughts01:23:00 OutroWe have Merch!!! Ground Pass Shop - https://www.groundpasspodcast.com/ground-pass-shop 💬 Don’t forget to give us a rating and drop us a comment ⭐️Subscribe to Our Substack at - https://groundpass.substack.com Visit Our Website at - www.groundpasspodcast.com Email us at - groundpasspodcast@gmail.com Follow us for daily updates on Social:Threads: https://www.threads.net/@ground_pass Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/groundpass.bsky.social Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ground_pass Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@GroundPass TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@groundpasspodcast X: https://x.com/groundpasspodDisclaimer: This video does not contain a paid for advertisement. PR samples are denoted by the term ‘ad - gifted’. Links containing ad affiliate links are denoted by a '*'. This means that if you click on an affiliate link, go through to the retailer and purchase an item, we will receive a small percentage of your purchase. Check out our website for a full disclaimer: https://www.groundpasspodcast.com/about  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It’s our year-in-review fashion and culture edition. I’m joined by new Ground Pass contributor Kaya Courtside to break down the exhibition season and what it’s really like covering tennis behind the scenes, from UTS Finals in London to the chaos and charm of these off-season events. Then I hand out my 2025 tennis style “awards,” from best dressed and outfit of the year to the meme moments that took over our feeds. Plus, quick tennis news: the WTA’s Mercedes-Benz era begins in 2026, Garbiñe Muguruza joins Madrid’s leadership team, Serena’s testing-pool headline sparks speculation, and Next Gen is around the corner. 00:00 Introduction to the Year in Review03:12 Introducing Kaya Courtside and UTS Finals30:10 Exhibition Season and Upcoming Events31:03 Fashion and Style Awards of 202536:11 Outfit of the Year and Brand Partnerships41:58 Cultural Moments and Player Highlights45:29 Tennis Photos and Memes of the Year51:31 Most Stylish Tournament and Personality of the Year58:52 WTA News and Future Predictions01:04:44 Upcoming Projects and Wrap-UpLinks:- GP Exhibition Deep Dive Episode - https://youtu.be/fjuxg3dzIXs?si=raOH2B8XOMWO7wrD - The Real Challenger Documentary - https://youtu.be/fjuxg3dzIXs?si=raOH2B8XOMWO7wrD - Off Season Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/offseasontv?igsh=MWJhaHZ4ano4NWlpeQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr - Off Season Tiktok - We have Merch!!! Ground Pass Shop - https://www.groundpasspodcast.com/ground-pass-shop 💬 Don’t forget to give us a rating and drop us a comment ⭐️Subscribe to Our Substack at - https://groundpass.substack.com Visit Our Website at - www.groundpasspodcast.com Email us at - groundpasspodcast@gmail.com Follow us for daily updates on Social:Threads: https://www.threads.net/@ground_pass Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/groundpass.bsky.social Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ground_pass Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@GroundPass TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@groundpasspodcast X: https://x.com/groundpasspodDisclaimer: This video does not contain a paid for advertisement. PR samples are denoted by the term ‘ad - gifted’. Links containing ad affiliate links are denoted by a '*'. This means that if you click on an affiliate link, go through to the retailer and purchase an item, we will receive a small percentage of your purchase. Check out our website for a full disclaimer: https://www.groundpasspodcast.com/about  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Meet the Professionals, I sit down with tennis host, commentator, and writer Nick McCarvel to unpack what it really looks like to build a career in tennis media.Nick shares how a childhood dream in Montana turned into bylines at the New York Times and USA Today, and how that writing work eventually led him to the mic as an on-court host at Grand Slams and big events around the world. We talk about cold-calling editors, early social media experiments, and why persistence (and a lot of “no”s) still matter in 2025.Nick also pulls back the curtain on his current roles with the Olympic Channel and at tournaments like Cincinnati, Roland Garros, Wimbledon and the Australian Open. He explains how he prepares to tell players’ stories on court, deals with nerves and stage fright as an introvert, and why research and empathy are just as important as being good on camera.If you’ve ever wondered how to get into tennis journalism, presenting, or sports media more broadly, this is your masterclass.Chapters:00:00 Introduction and Background02:54 Career Journey in Tennis Journalism06:06 Transition to On-Camera Presence09:08 Connecting with Players and Audience12:03 Research and Preparation for Interviews15:01 Innovations in Tennis Presentation17:58 Advice for Aspiring Tennis ProfessionalsLinks:Nick McCarvel on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/nickmccarvel?igsh=MXU4YW1uZXQ0MGhudw==We have Merch!!! Ground Pass Shop - https://www.groundpasspodcast.com/ground-pass-shop 💬 Don’t forget to give us a rating and drop us a comment ⭐️Subscribe to Our Substack at - https://groundpass.substack.com Visit Our Website at - www.groundpasspodcast.com Email us at - groundpasspodcast@gmail.com Follow us for daily updates on Social:Threads: https://www.threads.net/@ground_pass Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/groundpass.bsky.social Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ground_pass Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@GroundPass TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@groundpasspodcast X: https://x.com/groundpasspod Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It is time for the Ground Pass Awards. Anastasia and Nick are handing out their very own trophies for the 2025 tennis season. Think Oscars energy with a very casual dress code.They run through favorite tournament of the year, best match, biggest plot twist, and the off court moments that broke the internet. From the Citi Open and Charleston to Ilkley, from the Sincaraz Roland Garros final to Madison Keys in Melbourne, it is a full season recap through the lens of Ground Pass.You will also hear their picks for breakthrough and most improved players, the tennis story of the year, and the official Ground Pass Players of the Year on the men’s and women’s side. Plus a quick fire round, bold predictions for 2026, and a love letter to small tournaments and doubles.Chapters:00:00:00 Ground Pass Tennis Oscars02:17:00 Best tournament07:59:00 Best Match15:23:00 Breakthrough Player of the Year21:27:00 Biggest Plot twist29:18:00 Best Off court moment of 202533:28:00 Quick Fire Categories42:08:00 Tennis Story of the Year47:39:00 Ground Pass Players of the YearLinks:Emma Raducanu Match Stories - https://www.instagram.com/reel/DNb5JDygQ_M/?igsh=MTQwdmlva2c5OGg5ZQ== Sincaraz Roland Garros match stories - https://youtu.be/k7mgL4GSRI4?si=rMfUXMM8oi8aAihz Muchova Point - https://www.instagram.com/reel/DRAOc4ZjIn8/?igsh=MTNudnlpdGdxdHI2Mg==Ostapenko/Townsend Match Story - https://youtu.be/3arCsp2jvvE?si=3EwPuE2NcFBSbRe0 We have Merch!!! Ground Pass Shop - https://www.groundpasspodcast.com/ground-pass-shop 💬 Don’t forget to give us a rating and drop us a comment ⭐️Subscribe to Our Substack at - https://groundpass.substack.com Visit Our Website at - www.groundpasspodcast.com Email us at - groundpasspodcast@gmail.com Follow us for daily updates on Social:Threads: https://www.threads.net/@ground_pass Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/groundpass.bsky.social Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ground_pass Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@GroundPass TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@groundpasspodcast X: https://x.com/groundpasspod Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, Anastasia and Nick break down a wildly entertaining Davis Cup. Spain overachieved. Belgium stole our hearts. Germany survived doubles chaos. And Italy completed a dominant run without Jannik Sinner. We also talk Carlos Alcaraz’s viral living room photo, Arthur Fils’ injury update, Fabio Fognini’s Dancing with the Stars era, Rafa Nadal’s return to the court, and Roger Federer’s Hall of Fame induction. We wrap up with the Ground Pass Gift Guide and preview the upcoming Ground Pass Awards.Chapters:00:00 Introduction02:36 Q&A - The Absence of the US in the Davis Cup06:49 The Evolution and Popularity of the Davis Cup17:22 The Stories that dominated Davis Cup: No Sincaraz18:29 Doubles deciders and Tiebreaks & Team Belgium26:39 Team Spain: The underdogs32:26 The dominance of Italian Tennis38:51 Other News around Tennis44:40 Mental and Physical Health in Tennis52:19 Rafael Nadal's Comeback Journey53:42 Roger Federer's Hall of Fame Induction57:01 Fabio Fognini's Dancing with the Stars Journey58:48 Groundpass Offseason Plans and Gift Guide01:03:06 Groundpass Awards Preview01:07:35 OutroLinks:⁃Ground Pass Gift Guide - https://www.groundpasspodcast.com/tournament-guides/-ground-pass-gift-guide-2025-the-best-tennis-gifts-of-the-seasonWe have Merch!!! Ground Pass Shop - https://www.groundpasspodcast.com/ground-pass-shop 💬 Don’t forget to give us a rating and drop us a comment ⭐️Subscribe to Our Substack at - https://groundpass.substack.com Visit Our Website at - www.groundpasspodcast.com Email us at - groundpasspodcast@gmail.com Follow us for daily updates on Social:Threads: https://www.threads.net/@ground_pass Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/groundpass.bsky.social Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ground_pass Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@GroundPass TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@groundpasspodcast X: https://x.com/groundpasspodDisclaimer: This video does not contain a paid for advertisement. PR samples are denoted by the term ‘ad - gifted’. Links containing ad affiliate links are denoted by a '*'. This means that if you click on an affiliate link, go through to the retailer and purchase an item, we will receive a small percentage of your purchase. Check out our website for a full disclaimer: https://www.groundpasspodcast.com/about  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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

Anastasia and Nick break down the thrilling close to the WTA season — Elena Rybakina’s flawless run in Riyadh, Aryna Sabalenka’s fiery consistency, and what Coco Gauff and Iga Swiatek’s “rebuilding” phases really mean heading into 2026. Then they pivot to the ATP Finals, unpacking Novak Djokovic’s late withdrawal, Lorenzo Musetti’s mad dash to Turin, and why the Alcaraz–Sinner rivalry now defines men’s tennis. Plus: doubles shakeups, the ATP’s new Spotify deal, and the so-called “Battle of the Sexes” rematch.Chapters:00:00 Intro01:55 Audience Q&A09:00 WTA Finals review52:22 ATP Finals Preview01:12:46 The News Around Tennis01:35:35 OutroLinks:Morgan’s Mexico City GP vlog - https://youtu.be/HDb8Ng-f2xo?si=YgjIfWUEWXeSwwb9 Players box Podcast - https://www.youtube.com/@ThePlayersBoxPodcastDoubles reels - https://www.instagram.com/reel/DQ1b3-dDhi5/?igsh=MXYxNDhnZTgzamxjdA==Hardcourt article - https://open.substack.com/pub/hardcourt/p/the-tennis-tours-content-conundrum?r=64928&utm_medium=iosWe have Merch!!! Ground Pass Shop - https://www.groundpasspodcast.com/ground-pass-shop 💬 Don’t forget to give us a rating and drop us a comment ⭐️Subscribe to Our Substack at - https://groundpass.substack.com Visit Our Website at - www.groundpasspodcast.com Email us at - groundpasspodcast@gmail.com Follow us for daily updates on Social:Threads: https://www.threads.net/@ground_pass Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/groundpass.bsky.social Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ground_pass Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@GroundPass TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@groundpasspodcast X: https://x.com/groundpasspodDisclaimer: This video does not contain a paid for advertisement. PR samples are denoted by the term ‘ad - gifted’. Links containing ad affiliate links are denoted by a '*'. This means that if you click on an affiliate link, go through to the retailer and purchase an item, we will receive a small percentage of your purchase. Check out our website for a full disclaimer: https://www.groundpasspodcast.com/about  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Anastasia and Nick recap a jam-packed week in tennis, from the glitz and glamour of the WTA Finals in Riyadh to the drama and breakthroughs at the Paris Masters. They debate the WTA’s fashion moment of the year, break down Madison Keys’ surprising serve change, and celebrate rising stars like Vicky Mboko and Janice Tjen. Plus, Valentin Vacherot continues to stun, FAA fights to reach Turin, and Bublik becomes a serious contender. It’s all happening—even after the US Open.Chapters:00:00 Intro01:08 Ground Passer Q&A07:20 WTA Finals Update08:38 Reaction to the WTA Player Photo18:22 The Tennis results so far at the WTA Finals28:52 Paris Masters Review42:01 Editing Notes!44:18 Voice Note from the Paris Masters49:28 FAA's resurgence and the chaos of figuring out who mades the YEF59:59 Bublik is a Top 15 Player!01:05:15 Hong Kong Review - The WTA Next Gen tournament01:12:51 What's coming next week on tour01:14:58 Player of the Fortnight01:21:56 OutroLinks:Link to the WTA Finals Photo - https://www.instagram.com/p/DQeKYmHkfuF/?igsh=ZmM3c2FjZHNhdXl0Sabalenka/Paolini practice clip - https://www.instagram.com/reel/DQZ2QRYkq72/?igsh=NHJicWZ4ZWVycnYxLink to the WAG episode - https://youtu.be/ms2pOe_Tffo?si=eaTDWv7lzm9TwC4QLink to the Hardcourt Article - https://open.substack.com/pub/hardcourt/p/a-definitive-guide-to-the-tennis?r=47h9qh&utm_medium=iosLink to Double H interview - https://youtu.be/b1W8amIALyg?si=AmHbwgwGe8DEd-ho•⁃Harri’s blog - https://www.harriheliovaara.fi/?fbclid=PAdGRleAN1tXdleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABpxSyBHFx9AFh0rHJzS83q7OLop6xtTiqanQSuR2T0XZLAyRihXETtd4T0NFV_aem_vMpCIEwBTKF74_BMUGP6hQWe have Merch!!! Ground Pass Shop - https://www.groundpasspodcast.com/ground-pass-shop 💬 Don’t forget to give us a rating and drop us a comment ⭐️Subscribe to Our Substack at - https://groundpass.substack.com Visit Our Website at - www.groundpasspodcast.com Email us at - groundpasspodcast@gmail.com Follow us for daily updates on Social:Threads: https://www.threads.net/@ground_pass Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ground_pass TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@groundpasspodcast  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this bonus episode of Ground Pass, Anastasia is joined by Jessica from Hard Court and Emily Snyder — partner of Shanghai Masters champion Valentin Vacherot — for a deep dive into the evolving “WAG-scape.” They discuss how tennis girlfriends and wives are reshaping fan culture, influencer partnerships, and visibility in the sport. Emily shares her whirlwind love story, how she balances her own career in sports business, and what life looks like as her boyfriend rockets into the ATP Top 40.Chapters:00:00 Intro to the WAG-scape09:29 Who is a WAG?10:37 How did Emily & Valantin meet?17:09 Emily's Intro to the tennis world23:50 Emily's Career Development37:45 How Emily supports Val in his career44:12 What's next for Emily47:16 OutroLinks:WAG-scape article on Hardcourt Substack - https://open.substack.com/pub/hardcourt/p/a-definitive-guide-to-the-tennis?r=47h9qh&utm_medium=iosEmily on TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@emilysnyderr?_t=ZP-90zYVXelZrL&_r=1Emily on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/emilysnyyder?igsh=NGIyOGhxZm5ybnl2We have Merch!!! Ground Pass Shop - https://www.groundpasspodcast.com/ground-pass-shop 💬 Don’t forget to give us a rating and drop us a comment ⭐️Subscribe to Our Substack at - https://groundpass.substack.com Visit Our Website at - www.groundpasspodcast.com Email us at - groundpasspodcast@gmail.com Follow us for daily updates on Social:Threads: https://www.threads.net/@ground_pass Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/groundpass.bsky.social Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ground_pass Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@GroundPass TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@groundpasspodcast X: https://x.com/groundpasspod Disclaimer: This video does not contain a paid for advertisement. PR samples are denoted by the term ‘ad - gifted’. Links containing ad affiliate links are denoted by a '*'. This means that if you click on an affiliate link, go through to the retailer and purchase an item, we will receive a small percentage of your purchase. Check out our website for a full disclaimer: https://www.groundpasspodcast.com/about  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Anastasia and Nick are back for a full episode as the 2025 tennis season winds down. This week, they preview the WTA Finals in Riyadh — from format and field breakdowns to the Elena Rybakina vs. Mirra Andreeva qualification drama — and dive into the final Masters of the year in Paris. Plus: the ATP’s new Saudi Masters event, Davis Cup updates, and how the fall swing revealed just how worn out players are after a long year.Chapters:00:00 Intro04:06 Audience Q&A07:39 WTA Finals Preview36:38 Preview of the Paris Masters48:58 Tour News Round-Up01:00:28 Winners this Week on Tour01:11:07 Tournaments This Week On Tour01:13:11 OutroWe have Merch!!! Ground Pass Shop - https://www.groundpasspodcast.com/ground-pass-shop 💬 Don’t forget to give us a rating and drop us a comment ⭐️Subscribe to Our Substack at - https://groundpass.substack.com Visit Our Website at - www.groundpasspodcast.com Email us at - groundpasspodcast@gmail.com Follow us for daily updates on Social:Threads: https://www.threads.net/@ground_pass Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/groundpass.bsky.social Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ground_pass Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@GroundPass TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@groundpasspodcast X: https://x.com/groundpasspod Disclaimer: This video does not contain a paid for advertisement. PR samples are denoted by the term ‘ad - gifted’. Links containing ad affiliate links are denoted by a '*'. This means that if you click on an affiliate link, go through to the retailer and purchase an item, we will receive a small percentage of your purchase. Check out our website for a full disclaimer: https://www.groundpasspodcast.com/about  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, Anastasia and Nick take on one of the most debated topics in tennis — exhibitions. From the Six Kings Slamin Saudi Arabia to Laver Cup, Hopman Cup, and UTS, they unpack why players play them, why fans argue about them, and how events like these actually shape tennis culture.They explore the three main types of exhibitions — money events, charity exhibitions, and rival tours — and what makes each unique. Plus, a packed week in tennis.And Players of the Fortnight: Valentin Vacherot and Tereza Valentova.Chapters:00:00 Intro01:27 Audience Question09:10 All about Tennis Exhibitions10:03 The Controversy of Exhibitions12:18 What is An Exhibition14:23 Type 1 - The Money Exo21:01 Type 2 - Charitable Exo24:11 Type 3 - Competitive Exo30:22 Why do players Play Exo30:43 The Appeal of Exhibitions for Players33:23 Reason 1: Mental Breaks35:45 Reason 2: Money37:44 Reason 3: Experiment & Train40:48 Audience Perception49:02 Exo's help promote the sport & The Issue of SA52:04 Concluding Thoughts on Enjoying Tennis53:08 Last week in Tennis54:29 ATP Update01:02:34 WTA Update01:08:50 Injury Woes01:11:25 Upcoming Tournaments01:13:05 Player of the Fortnight: Vacherot and Valentova01:20:39 OutroLinks:Fedal South African Exhibition: https://youtu.be/BA5ti_6rFro?si=f1yK79J8iWlBKVic Hailey Baptiste On Tour With Tokyo: https://groundpass.substack.com/p/on-tour-with-hailey-baptiste-tokyoNothing Major interview with Valentin Vacherot: https://youtu.be/lzQxsTPBxHs?si=3PEcAXqgiFe-VfB0 We have Merch!!! Ground Pass Shop - https://www.groundpasspodcast.com/ground-pass-shop 💬 Don’t forget to give us a rating and drop us a comment ⭐️Subscribe to Our Substack at - https://groundpass.substack.com Visit Our Website at - www.groundpasspodcast.com Email us at - groundpasspodcast@gmail.com Follow us for daily updates on Social:Threads: https://www.threads.net/@ground_pass Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/groundpass.bsky.social Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ground_pass Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@GroundPass TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@groundpasspodcast X: https://x.com/groundpasspod  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Anastasia breaks down the most surprising and satisfying weekend in tennis — the all-American final in Wuhan and the cousin showdown in Shanghai. From Coco Gauff perfecting the art of “winning ugly” to Valentin Vacherot and Arthur Rinderknech’s once-in-a-lifetime Masters final, this episode captures everything that made the weekend unforgettable.Chapters:00:00 Intro00:21 Coco Gauff's Journey to the Wuhan Final05:53 Jessica Pagula's Gritty Path to the Final10:46 The All-American Final: Gauff vs. Pagula18:54 The Cousin Final: A Unique Tennis Story36:33 Wrap-Up and Upcoming EventsLinks:Hailey Baptiste On Tour With post - https://groundpass.substack.com/p/on-tour-with-hailey-baptiste-beijingJessica Pegula post Sabalenka Press Conference transcript - https://www.groundpasspodcast.com/bestweekintennis Link to Winning Ugly Book - https://amzn.to/42CCYW9 Lost Boys Video - https://youtu.be/9maE1Nb8e3o?si=kxwhVV5cnVUSFKk8Quote from Vacherot’s Coach - https://www.groundpasspodcast.com/bestweekintennis Also We have Merch!!! Ground Pass Shop - https://www.groundpasspodcast.com/ground-pass-shop 💬 Don’t forget to give us FIVE STARS and drop us a comment ⭐️Subscribe to Our Substack at - https://groundpass.substack.com Visit Our Website at - www.groundpasspodcast.com Email us at - groundpasspodcast@gmail.com Follow us for daily updates on Social:Threads: https://www.threads.net/@ground_pass Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/groundpass.bsky.social Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ground_pass Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@GroundPass TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@groundpasspodcast X: https://x.com/groundpasspod  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Beijing wrapped, Shanghai rolls—and we’ve got a voice note from Eddie McGhee (Tennis Asia) on what it’s like on the ground in Shanghai: humidity, facial-recognition entry, and a downtown fan zone screen. Plus: Anisimova’s title, Learner Tien’s breakout, Double-H back in the winner’s circle, Americans in Shanghai, and Players of the Fortnight: Eva Lys and Jerry Shang. Q&A lightning round too.Chapters:00:00 Intro01:59 Catching Up on Asian Tennis17:30 Voice Note from Eddie of Tennis Asia30:50 WTA Insights: Beijing Tournament Dynamics55:25 Q&A Session: Listener Questions01:00:59 Upcoming Tournaments and Player Highlights01:02:57 Players of the Fortnite: Celebrating Achievements01:08:45 OutroLinks:Meet the Players: Henry Patten & Harry Heliovarra - https://youtu.be/b1W8amIALyg?si=qma0_egV9H9fsET3 Match Stories Playlist - https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLMv2o_TqSl7Z2nZcXDbu7X8edwtWJsBL4&si=CLYiT48EYcWIq-jR Eddie From Tennis Asia Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@TennisAsiaTV/videosEddie From Tennis Asia X: https://x.com/tennisasia?s=21&t=34KFRaMxpc-93mq_1EOI7A Also We have Merch!!! Ground Pass Shop - https://www.groundpasspodcast.com/ground-pass-shop 💬 Don’t forget to give us FIVE STARS and drop us a comment ⭐️Subscribe to Our Substack at - https://groundpass.substack.com Visit Our Website at - www.groundpasspodcast.com Email us at - groundpasspodcast@gmail.com Follow us for daily updates on Social:Threads: https://www.threads.net/@ground_pass Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/groundpass.bsky.social Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ground_pass Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@GroundPass TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@groundpasspodcast X: https://x.com/groundpasspod  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ground Pass is turning 2! 🎉 In this special birthday episode, Anastasia and Nick look back on how Ground Pass began, what it stands for, and how it’s grown into a home for new and curious tennis fans.They revisit the mission to make tennis more accessible, share the stories that shaped the show (including that first-ever voice memo), and reveal what it’s like building the podcast with just the two of them behind the mic. You’ll hear their first live tennis memories, favorite moments, dream collaborations, and what they want Year 3 to look like — more listener stories, more guides, and more chances to help fans experience tennis from the ground up.Plus, audience Q&A! From Ben Shelton’s first Slam to Coco Gauff’s serve, US Open ticket tips, and the reality behind Ground Pass merch — your questions answered.🎂 Happy Birthday to us… and to all Ground Passers who’ve been here since day one or just joined the family.Chapters:00:00 Birthday Celebrations and Groundpass Introduction02:48 The Origins of Groundpass18:16 The Evolution of Ground Pass30:47 Get to know Anastasia & Nick51:35 Audience Q&A01:04:10 The Future of Ground PassLinks:Our Merch graphic designer: Yevheniia Petrova - https://www.instagram.com/yev.hen.iia?igsh=Z2xrb2VjZXBzdGZl Match Stories: The Lost Boys - https://youtu.be/9maE1Nb8e3o?si=hepJlBSTSWaOzs7Z Ground Pass Tournament Guides - https://www.groundpasspodcast.com/tournament-guides Also We have Merch!!! And its on Sale for our birthday!Ground Pass Shop - https://www.groundpasspodcast.com/ground-pass-shop 💬 Don’t forget to give us FIVE STARS and drop us a comment ⭐️Subscribe to Our Substack at - https://groundpass.substack.com Visit Our Website at - www.groundpasspodcast.com Email us at - groundpasspodcast@gmail.com Follow us for daily updates on Social:Threads: https://www.threads.net/@ground_pass Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/groundpass.bsky.social Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ground_pass Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@GroundPass TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@groundpasspodcast X: https://x.com/groundpasspod  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week’s mini pod covers three big topics:🎾 The Asian Swing – ATP action in Tokyo & Beijing, WTA 1000 in Beijing, Challenger winners, and the growing “Ground Pass Effect.”✈️ Our New Substack Series – On Tour With… featuring players like Ethan Quinn and Hailey Baptiste, following their first (or second) Asian swing experiences.🎂 Ground Pass Turns 2! We’re celebrating with special birthday content, a bonus episode, merch discounts, and listener Q&A.📅 Don’t forget: send your questions and voice notes by Friday, October 3 at 10PM ET for our special birthday episode dropping October 4.Chapters:00:00 Intro01:00 Asian Swing Recap26:07 On Tour With... Substack Series30:24 Its Our Birthday & Whats Up this week in TennisLinks:Chinese Fans Nicknames for players - www.groundpasspodcast.com/asian-swing-chinese-fans Meet The Player: Eliot Spizzirri - https://youtu.be/5rT6hbsJJWI?si=uRSfdVXStz2dNLM9 On Tour With Ethan Quinn Tokyo - https://open.substack.com/pub/groundpass/p/on-tour-with-ethan-quinn-in-tokyo?r=47h9qh&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=false Also We have Merch!!!Ground Pass Shop - https://www.groundpasspodcast.com/ground-pass-shop💬 Don’t forget to give us FIVE STARS and drop us a comment ⭐️Subscribe to Our Substack at - https://groundpass.substack.comVisit Our Website at - www.groundpasspodcast.comEmail us at - groundpasspodcast@gmail.comFollow us for daily updates on Social:Threads: https://www.threads.net/@ground_passBlue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/groundpass.bsky.socialInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ground_passYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@GroundPassTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@groundpasspodcastX: https://x.com/groundpasspod Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Anastasia (recording from California) and Nick tackle the Asia swing’s time-zone brain melt, introduce our new Substack series On Tour With… (featuring Ethan Quinn’s first trip to Asia), and relive a wild team-events fortnight: Spain-Denmark grit, Belgium’s upset over Australia, and a tense USA-GB semifinal at the BJK Cup. We also unpack the Taylor Townsend IG controversy, share a listener voice note straight from the Korea Open (Pimm’s + Coke?!), debate the value of the Laver Cup, and crown our Players of the Fortnight: Rafael Collignon and Janice Tjen.Links:On Tour With Ethan Quinn - https://groundpass.substack.com/p/on-tour-with-ethan-quinn-in-chengduEllie Ma Jelly: Documenting following her boyfriend on tour - https://www.instagram.com/elliemajelly?igsh=MWdteHU4Zjlkd2gxcA==Served Live Podcast with Team Captains - https://youtu.be/8tj4Qh4WbrI?si=shKXvY4tuw60LHTk Also We have Merch!!!Ground Pass Shop - https://www.groundpasspodcast.com/ground-pass-shopChapters00:00 Introduction and Time Zone Challenges02:45 Recap of Previous Episodes and Meet the Professionals05:31 The Asian Swing & New Substack Series: On Tour With12:54 Cultural Sensitivity and Recent Controversies24:07 A Voice Note from the Korea Open30:47 Emerging Players from Underrepresented Countries32:47 Team Tennis - Davis Cup, BJK Cup & Laver Cup33:42 Davis Cup Recap43:17 Billie Jean King Cup51:15 The Laver Cup: A Different Kind of Team Spirit01:10:35 Next Week on Tour...01:14:10 Player of the Fortnight💬 Don’t forget to give us FIVE STARS and drop us a comment ⭐️Subscribe to Our Substack at - https://groundpass.substack.comVisit Our Website at - www.groundpasspodcast.comEmail us at - groundpasspodcast@gmail.comFollow us for daily updates on Social:Threads: https://www.threads.net/@ground_passBlue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/groundpass.bsky.socialInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ground_passYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@GroundPassTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@groundpasspodcastX: https://x.com/groundpasspod Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.