Ground Pass: A Tennis Podcast

Meet the Professionals with Mike Cation, the voice of Challenger tennis. We talk commentary reps, relationships, journalistic ethics, and how to break into tennis jobs through volunteering and college tennis. Plus a quick tour check-in as Medvedev wins Dubai by walkover and Tiafoe reaches the Acapulco final.  Links:Off Season Ep 4 - https://youtu.be/8UTohuZL-oY?si=8ue6NlazOwcIEf23 Ground Pass Substack - https://groundpass.substack.com/Ground Pass Shop - https://www.groundpasspodcast.com/shop Ground Pass Patreon - https://www.patreon.com/cw/GroundPassPodcastChapters:00:00 Intro05:12 Current Events in Tennis: Dubai and Austin Tournaments10:18 Meet the Professional: Mike Cation's Journey in Tennis Commentary19:23 Building Relationships in Tennis: The Key to Success21:30 The Art of Commentary: Skills and Learning Process28:55 The Role of a Commentator: Insights and Relationships with Players36:21 Navigating the Changing Landscape of Sports Media40:59 Advice for Aspiring Tennis ProfessionalsWe have Merch!!! Ground Pass Shop - https://www.groundpasspodcast.com/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 is back from Delray Beach and has thoughts. A lot of them. This week, we get into why February might just be the best month on the tennis calendar, what it was actually like on the ground at the Delray Beach Open, and why the draw felt more like a 500 than a 250. We also break down Jessica Pegula winning Dubai, the WTA’s new Tour Architecture Council, the debate around getting rid of 250-level events, and whether anyone can actually stop Carlos Alcaraz right now. Plus: player clips from Taylor Fritz, Casper Ruud, and Coleman Wong on tour life, 250s, and representing Hong Kong on the pro circuit. And we have an update on what the OFF SEASON cast is up to as the US spring swing kicks off.Links:Off Season Ep 3 - https://youtu.be/K77vLeZhyho?si=Cwx2jn7oeG6Gl4Kn  Ground Pass Substack - https://groundpass.substack.com/Ground Pass Shop - https://www.groundpasspodcast.com/shop Ground Pass Patreon - https://www.patreon.com/cw/GroundPassPodcastChapters:00:00 Technical Difficulties and Weather Woes01:59 Delray Beach Tournament Overview09:52 The Future of 250 Tournaments24:39 Dubai Tournament Highlights29:38 The WTA rethinking their schedule33:20 Jessica Pegula's Consistency and Victory38:11 The Impact of Alex Eala on Tennis42:32 Doha: Sinner searching, Alcaraz unstoppable48:46 Goran Ivanisevic is back51:07 February: The Best Month for Tennis56:17 Upcoming Tournaments and Player Highlights01:03:05 OutroWe have Merch!!! Ground Pass Shop - https://www.groundpasspodcast.com/shop  💬 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 is on the road in Florida after covering the Dallas Open in person and she is breaking down what made it such a great “small tournament, big tennis” week. We talk atmosphere, access, and why Dallas felt like a stadium-within-a-stadium event. Then we jump to Doha where Karolina Muchova wins the title, Victoria Mboko breaks into the Top 10, and Mirra Andreeva’s poise keeps leveling up. Plus, Qinwen Zheng returns, Rotterdam and Buenos Aires check-ins, Destanee Aiava’s retirement post, and a packed “what’s next” slate led by Dubai, Doha (men), Rio, and a seriously stacked Delray field. Players of the Fortnight: Elisabetta Cocciaretto and Jack Pinnington Jones.Links:Off Season Ep 3 - https://youtu.be/K77vLeZhyho?si=Cwx2jn7oeG6Gl4Kn  Ground Pass Substack - https://groundpass.substack.com/Bryan Shelton Interview - https://youtu.be/U1IOObky2UE?si=KogAEfpDK4rcMMIR Destanee Aiava instagram post - https://www.instagram.com/p/DUu-THaE6KR/?igsh=MThrdTFqa3ZmcHN2Nw==Chapters:00:00 Introduction02:24 Dallas Open Experience16:44 Doha: The feel good Tournament29:42 Tournament Updates: Rotterdam and Buenos Aires34:16 Destanee Aiava retires at 2638:14 Upcoming Tournaments: Dubai and Delray Beach Preview49:15 Players of the Fortnight: Rising Stars in Focus53:52 OutroWe have Merch!!! Ground Pass Shop - https://www.groundpasspodcast.com/shop  💬 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 is on the ground in Dallas for her first Dallas Open, kicking off the season’s first mini-pod from a hotel room after a long travel day. She recaps a busy post–Australian Open week across the tours, from Emma Raducanu’s return to a final in Cluj-Napoca and Katie Boulter’s title in Ostrava, to Sara Bejlek’s breakthrough WTA 500 win in Abu Dhabi. On the ATP side, Felix Auger-Aliassime stays red hot indoors by defending his Montpellier crown, plus a quick Davis Cup check-in and what’s next with Doha and the February swing. Finally, it’s an OFF SEASON roundup week, with Hailey Baptiste surging in Abu Dhabi, Ethan Quinn delivering in his first Davis Cup appearance, and Colton Smith defending his Challenger title.  Links:Off Season Ep 1: https://youtu.be/0U3F4CfUsh0?si=YA0OxZ7OKP_9rUKF Off Season Ep 2: https://youtu.be/XwysI8QBSgk?si=Yr2b6fmxsM8qwk2t Chapters:00:00 Intro01:47 Dallas Open Coverage Begins03:56 WTA Highlights: Brits Shine09:06 ATP Insights: Indoor Kings and Davis Cup13:31 Off-Season Athletes Making Waves17:55 Upcoming Tournaments and Events21:48 Merchandise Updates and Community EngagementWe have Merch!!! Ground Pass Shop - https://www.groundpasspodcast.com/shop  💬 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.

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

We finally gets the semi-finals we were waiting for. We break down Carlos Alcaraz vs Alexander Zverev and Jannik Sinner vs Novak Djokovic, including the cramping debate, the breakpoint chaos, and what it all means for a historic final. Plus, quick hits on Aryna Sabalenka vs Elina Svitolina, Elena Rybakina vs Jessica Pegula, the doubles and wheelchair finals, and a few tournaments we are tracking beyond Melbourne. Also, last call for the Ground Pass sweatsuit drop.Links:Ground Pass Sweatsuits: https://www.groundpasspodcast.com/shop/p/us-summer-swing-heavyweight-tee-2025-sfkbw-cz6zw-amx89Off Season YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@OffSeasondocChapters:00:00 Australian Open Semi-Finals Recap04:07 Women's Semi-Finals Overview13:38 Men's Semi-Finals Highlights19:49 Djokovic vs. Sinner: A Clash of Generations23:50 Historic Final: Alcaraz vs. Djokovic28:20 Doubles and Wheelchair Events Overview34:14 Other Tournaments happening37:03 OutroWe have Merch!!! Ground Pass Shop - https://www.groundpasspodcast.com/shop 💬 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 Australian Open quarterfinals are done. The seeds mostly held, the men’s side stayed tidy, and the women gave us the sharper tension. We break down Alcaraz vs De Minaur, Zverev vs Learner Tien, Sinner’s control against Shelton, and Djokovic’s strange path into the semis after Musetti’s injury. On the WTA side, we talk Jovic’s lesson-filled loss to Sabalenka, Svitolina’s shocker over Gauff, Rybakina finding her edge, and Pegula’s ultra-clean run. Plus: doubles unpredictability, quick notes from the Philippines Open and San Diego, and a bigger question. Do fans actually want the behind-the-scenes hallway cameras?Links:Ground Pass Sweatsuits: https://www.groundpasspodcast.com/shop/p/us-summer-swing-heavyweight-tee-2025-sfkbw-cz6zw-amx89Carlos Alcaraz Press Conference: https://youtu.be/alLz7Ru3-VQ?si=wZ0ZajdEKdA_cxpn Off Season YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@OffSeasondocChapters:00:00 Quarterfinal Review and Tournament Overview02:12 Men's Quarterfinal Highlights11:02 Musetti's Injury and Djokovic's Path16:10 Women's Quarterfinal Insights27:21 Doubles Drama and Surprises30:31 Semifinals Lineup31:30 Other Tournaments in the mix35:08 Ground Pass Admin37:52 Behind the Scenes Cameras: A Controversial Topic46:00 OutroWe have Merch!!! Ground Pass Shop - https://www.groundpasspodcast.com/ground-pass-shop 💬 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.

Round three and four are in the books, and we are looking ahead to a stacked quarterfinal slate. We talk WTA Next Gen fearlessness (Mboko, Jovic, Andreeva), the conversation around confidence and “earning it,” and why Learner Tien is still not getting the respect he deserves. Plus: the Sinner heat and roof drama, Djokovic’s “luck” conversation, a quick doubles check-in, and a shoutout to the Philippines Open and the energy Alex Eala is bringing to tennis in Southeast Asia.Also, last call to pre-order the Ground Pass sweatsuit before the end of January.Links:Ground Pass Sweatsuits: https://www.groundpasspodcast.com/shop/p/us-summer-swing-heavyweight-tee-2025-sfkbw-cz6zw-amx89Lucy Deuce: https://www.instagram.com/lucyydeuce?igsh=MWM2MGVrZDhsbjd1cA==Islandtennisgirl: https://x.com/islandtennisace?s=21&t=34KFRaMxpc-93mq_1EOI7ATennis Asia: https://youtube.com/@tennisasiatv?si=ERjg30f0d-OZzJvDChapters:00:00 Introduction to the Australian Open Review02:30 Round Three and Four Highlights04:39 Emerging Talents in Women's Tennis10:08 Men's Side: Learner Tien16:38 Luck of the Draw24:35 Doubles Dynamics29:11 Quarterfinals Preview37:23 Emerging Tennis Markets: The Philippines and BeyondWe have Merch!!! Ground Pass Shop - https://www.groundpasspodcast.com/ground-pass-shop 💬 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 is the Grand Slam fashion episode. I am joined by Ian Mondul of 40 Love Tennis to break down the Australian Open fits that are actually moving the needle. We talk Naomi Osaka’s runway moment and why it is more tennis heritage than people think, Sabalenka’s new Gucci partnership, Musetti’s perfect Bottega era, and the brand-by-brand kit audit from Nike and Adidas to Wilson, New Balance, Lacoste, and more. Plus a quick detour into the heat drama from Sinner vs Eliot Spizzirri and why this match put Eliot on the map.Links:40Love on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/fortylovetennis?igsh=ZG1na3d2ZjhvZm9kOff Season: Episode 1 - https://youtu.be/0U3F4CfUsh0?si=1LG59ziOx1V-mYfR Hardcourt Newsletter - https://substack.com/@hardcourt?r=64928&utm_medium=ios&utm_source=profile&shareImageVariant=lightTim Henman on TNT - https://www.instagram.com/reel/DTvXne_kZDo/?igsh=MWczbnRwNHEzNGN2OQ==Chapters:00:00 Welcome and Weather Check02:29 Australian Open Day 7 Recap03:24 Stan Wawrinka's Last Match07:56 Naomi Osaka's Withdrawal09:26 Elliot Spizzirri vs. Jannik Sinner19:58 Australain Open Threads22:22 Naomi Osaka's Runway36:58 Embracing Individuality in Tennis Fashion38:26 Luxury Collaborations: A New Era in Tennis47:24 Brand by Brand break down47:40 Nike & Adidas55:27 New Balance and Yonex01:01:03 Wilson01:05:04 Lululemon and ASICS01:10:43 Fila, Lacoste & ON01:17:38 The Others - Jomo, Head, CP Company, Penguin01:24:23 Our Favorite Outfits of the TournamentWe have Merch!!! Ground Pass Shop - https://www.groundpasspodcast.com/ground-pass-shop 💬 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.

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