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Control the Controllables

Author: Dan Kiernan

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Dan Kiernan, Director of SotoTennis Academy in Spain has created a podcast to entertain, educate and energise the tennis community. Hear Dan pick the brains of professional tennis players, coaches, parents, and others involved in High Performance Tennis.
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Listen to our very special US Open Review episode brought to you by Novellus, as we are joined by the 2025 Women’s Doubles Champions Gaby Dabrowski and Erin Routliffe!The pair who are coached by CTC Host Dan Kiernan, share their journey to their second Grand Slam title, and answer questions from our panellists and listeners.Our panel also look back on the highs and lows of what was a very eventful 3 weeks at Flushing Meadows, which saw both Carlos Alcaraz & Aryna Sabalenka crowned Champions for the second time.Joining Dan on our Grand Slam panel are:-Denmark´s Davis Cup Captain and 2012 Wimbledon Doubles Champion, Freddie NielsenSports broadcaster and former CNN anchor Candy Reid GB Coach Calvin Betton who is currently working with Henry Patten & Harri Heliövaara.Episode Highlights:-Erin and Gaby tell us how they celebrated their win in New YorkHow they got through a tough QF match which saw them fight back from 6-0 2-1 down.Mixed doubles should be a merit-based entry system to ensure fairness.Who can possibly compete with Alcaraz and Sinner?The importance of mental resilience in overcoming challenges during tournaments.What happened to Medvedev, Tsitsipas and Zverev.Anisimova's emotional response to losing the final highlights the pressure of major tournaments.Coco Gauff's coaching changes may have added unnecessary stress before the US Open.Plus many anecdotes from Gaby, Erin and the panel from throughout the fortnight! Enjoy!Head to our CTC YouTube channel to watch the episode and follow us on Instagram @ctc.podcast for all the latest news and clips from the show!
A fortnight on from the much anticipated new mixed doubles format at the US Open, Dan chats to Andrea Vavassori on his win with fellow Italian, Sara Errani As the only specialist doubles team invited to enter, they saw off some of the top singles tennis players in the world to successfully defend their US Open Mixed Doubles title.In this live YouTube episode, Dan is joined by Vavassori to talk about the excitement surrounding the event, the energy from the crowds and why winning the event in New York was so important for the doubles game.They also discuss the importance of social media in promoting doubles, and Andrea´s journey from growing up in Turin to a career high doubles ranking of 6 in the world.He also answers questions from CTC listeners, including what he thinks are the key attributes to be a good doubles partner.This is a great listen!Episode Highlights:-They discuss the challenges of gaining respect for doubles players, and the need for stronger partnerships amongst players.The potential to create stars in doubles tennis and why building a brand is essential.Andrea shares insights on his journey as a player, and the dynamics of playing with Sara Errani.Why he decided to specialise in doubles when he was top 130 in the world in singles.How beneficial the Italian tennis community is by being supportive and close-knit.Andrea gives his advice for tennis players starting out on the Futures tour.Head to our CTC YouTube channel to watch the live episode with Andrea.You can also follow us here: Instagram | Tiktok | X
US Open 2025 LIVE Preview

US Open 2025 LIVE Preview

2025-08-2401:12:28

With the US Open getting underway today, we´re bringing you the Live YouTube episode of our US Open 2025 PreviewDan was joined by CTC favourite and Denmark´s Davis Cup Captain Freddie Nielsen to look at what we can expect from the final Grand Slam of 2025.Listen to them break down the best match ups in the draw, give their dark horses to watch out for and potential winners. Plus, how the unique atmosphere that Flushing Meadows provides can affect player performance.Head to our CTC YouTube channel and remember to like & subscribe to listen to all of Dan´s LIVE updates from the US Open.
The US Open Mixed Doubles has been the talk of tennis the past few days. The new format has been debated for months, and now it´s over, opinion is still divided!Host Dan Kiernan jumps on to today´s CTC Short to recap the event in New York and look at why it has stirred up such strong feelings in the tennis world. With Sara Errani and Andrea Vavassori beating Iga Swiatek & Casper Ruud to sucessfully defend their title, Dan looks at why this feels like a victory for all doubles players.What did you think of the new format? Message us on Instagram or send us an email to ctc.podcast@sototennis.com and let us know!
In today's episode, we have the Danish star August Holmgren. Straight after his incredible run at Wimbledon, reaching the 3rd round with 2 matches that lasted 5 sets across qualifying and main draw, before playing Alex De Minaur. And directly following Wimbledon, he went on to win his next Challenger tournament in Granby. August attended the University of San Diego and advanced to the NCAA individual final, where he faced a certain Ben Shelton. Reached a career high of 144 in the world and climbing every year. You guys will love his mindset on steady and consistent progress and blocking out the noise.Talking points:August’s incredible run at 2025 Wimbledon, making round 3 and playing Alex De Minaur.The feeling of winning his 1st and most recent Challenger tour titles.Growing up and playing tennis in Demark.Battling through 2 matches that latest 5 sets at Wimbledon and winning them both.Dealing with heat stroke and vomiting during a match.Playing college and becoming the No. 1-ranked college player in the nation at the University of San Diego.Playing Ben Shelton in the NCAA individual final.How August fights and blocks out demons during his matches.The main differences aspiring tennis players should know between the Future and Challenger tour.Links mentioned in the episode - Ep 108 Holger Rune: https://www.controlthecontrollables.co.uk/episode-108-holger-rune-no-doubt/Ep 251 Adam Blicher: https://www.controlthecontrollables.co.uk/adam-blicher-getting-to-know-ourselves-rather-than-changing-ourselves/Ep 254 Ethan Quinn: https://www.controlthecontrollables.co.uk/ethan-quinn-on-the-challenges-of-rising-up-the-atp-rankings/Don't forget to head to our YouTube Channel and like and subscribe to watch clips and now full episodes of Control The Controllables: www.youtube.com/@ctc.podcastFollow August Holmgren on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/augustholmgren/?hl=enThanks for listening!Control The Controllables.
In today´s episode we speak to American pro tennis player Tristan Boyer.Tristan has a career high ranking of 109 in the world, and played college tennis at Stanford University.He shares his experiences of moving up the rankings as he tries to break the ATP top 100. From playing Futures as a junior, to winning Challenger events after turning pro in February 2023, to playing top players like Tommy Paul and Alex De Minaur.Episode Highlights:-Tristan reflects on the challenges of managing expectations during tough seasons.He shares insights on the role of coaches in his development.Tristen shares his thoughts on the non-negotiables for success in tennis. Why the ability to play to your own strengths is crucial in tennis.Why he recommends College tennis for personal and tennis development.The differences in playing futures, challengers and ATP matches.Links Mentioned in this Episode:-Episode 254: Ethan QuinnEpisode 258: Taro DanielFollow Tristan on InstagramSotoTennis AcademyDon´t forget to head to our CTC YouTube Channel to watch clips and full episodes from the show.
In today´s episode Dan speaks to 2025 Wimbledon Champions Lloyd Glasspool and Julian Cash.Glasspool and Cash made history at SW19, becoming the first all-British pair to win the Mens Doubles title since 1936. A week on from lifting their first Grand Slam trophy, they tell us all about their run to the title, how they are feeling and if it has sunk in yet.Episode highlights:-What went through Lloyd´s mind as he served for the Championship.Julian talks us through how he almost had to withdraw with injury in the first round!How winning Queens & Eastbourne in the lead up to Wimbledon helped their confidence.Here how they celebrated ... and the now infamous 153 baby Guinness receipt.How this has changed their mindset moving forward into the rest of 2025 and beyond.Catch all of our Wimbledon Live episodes on YouTube, and don´t forget to hit Subscribe to watch all the latest guests from the world of tennis.
Wimbledon 2025 LIVE Review

Wimbledon 2025 LIVE Review

2025-07-1501:11:53

Wimbledon 2025 did not disappoint! From early upsets, unexpected runs by qualifiers (and alternates!), to two new Wimbledon champions in Sinner and Swiatek, it´s been an exciting 2 weeks at SW19!And the sun shone throughout!CTC Host Dan Kiernan went live on YouTube to review all of the action with our Grand Slam panellists:-Denmark´s Davis Cup Captain and 2012 Wimbledon Doubles Champion, Freddie NielsenTop S&C Coach Kieron Vorster who has worked with Liam Broady, Dan Evans, Tim Henman and Wayne Ferreira.Head to our CTC YouTube channel and hit Subscribe to listen to all of Dan´s LIVE updates from Wimbledon.
Our CTC LIVE series is back for Wimbledon 2025! Dan will be rounding up all the action from the Championships, joined by special guests from the world of tennis.Who is winning each final?These are shorter episodes that we´ll bring you throughout the tournament to provide you with insights and a round-up of the biggest talking points of the tournament. Today, Dan is joined by two CTC fan favourites, Calvin Betton and Freddie Nielsen!Episode Highlights:- Reviewing the Men's Singles semi-finalsReviewing the Women's Doubles semi-finalsPredictions and breakdown for the Finals this weekendAll the information you need to stay up to date with the action ahead of the finals! Catch each episode live on YouTube by searching 'Control the Controllables Podcast' and following our Instagram and Twitter (X) for the latest times! If you have any questions you'd like Dan or our guests to answer live on the episode, please send them through any of our social media channels, sure to get back to you! CTC Instagram: www.instagram.com/ctc.podcastCTC Tiktok: www.tiktok.com/@controlthecontrollablesCTC X: www.x.com/ctc__podcast Thanks for listening! Control The Controllables.
Our CTC LIVE series is back for Wimbledon 2025! Dan will be rounding up all the action from the Championships, joined by special guests from the world of tennis.These are shorter episodes that we´ll bring you throughout the tournament to provide you with insights and a round-up of the biggest talking points of the tournament. Today, Dan is joined by Mel South, commentator and former WTA top 100 player. As well as Will Boucek, host of the Doubles Only podcast. Episode Highlights:- The amazing Men's doubles semi-finals were filled with many emotions, with Hijikata and Pel making the final after being alternates!Dan's former player, Lloyd Glasspool making his 1st Wimbledon final.Swiatek making the final dominantly.An emotional Mixed doubles final with Siniakova winning her 1st Mixed doubles title alongside Sem Verbeek.Dan's long-time favourite and dark horse, Amanda Anisimova, making her 1st Grand Slam final, beating the world No.1 Aryna Sabalenka.Prediction and analysis for the women's doubles semi-finalsPrediction and analysis for the Men's semi-finals.Catch each episode live on YouTube by searching 'Control the Controllables Podcast' and following our Instagram and Twitter (X) for the latest times! If you have any questions you'd like Dan or our guests to answer live on the episode, please send them through any of our social media channels, sure to get back to you! CTC Instagram: www.instagram.com/ctc.podcastCTC Tiktok: www.tiktok.com/@controlthecontrollablesCTC X: www.x.com/ctc__podcast Thanks for listening! Control The Controllables.
Our CTC LIVE series is back for Wimbledon 2025! Dan will be rounding up all the action from the Championships.Today's episode, we talk about the singles and doubles semi-finals, mixed doubles final and all the action from day 10.We are joined by podcast host, journalist, and former CNN sports anchor Candy Reid.These are shorter episodes that we´ll bring you throughout the tournament to provide you with insights and a round-up of the biggest talking points of the day. Episode Highlights:- Dan reflecting on Gaby and Erin's 2025 Wimbledon.Bencic making the Wimbledon semi-finals just over a year after giving birthCobolli's incredible run and Wimbledon.Sinner does not seem to be affected despite heavy elbow strapping.Preview for both the men's and women's singles semi-finals. Preview for both the men's and women's doubles semi-finalsPreview for the mixed final. Each episode is LIVE on YouTube by searching 'Control the Controllables Podcast' and following our Instagram and Twitter (X) for the latest times! CTC Instagram: www.instagram.com/ctc.podcastCTC Tiktok: www.tiktok.com/@controlthecontrollablesCTC X: www.x.com/ctc__podcast
Our CTC LIVE series is back for Wimbledon 2025! Dan will be rounding up all the action from the Championships.These are shorter episodes that we´ll bring you throughout the tournament to provide you with insights and a round-up of the biggest talking points of the day.Episode Highlights:- Talking about the heartbreaking moment Grigor Dimitrov had to go off the court due to injury for the 5th Grand Slam in a row. Gaby Dabrowski and Erin Routliffe making it into the Quarter Finals at Wimbledon. The emotions of Cobolli's team when making it into the next round. Preview of today's matches with what to look out for. As well as a breakdown of wheelchair tennis with it starting today and the main rivals for men's, women's and doubles.  Each episode is LIVE on YouTube by searching 'Control the Controllables Podcast' and following our Instagram and Twitter (X) for the latest times! CTC Instagram: www.instagram.com/ctc.podcastCTC Tiktok: www.tiktok.com/@controlthecontrollablesCTC X: www.x.com/ctc__podcast
Our CTC LIVE series is back for Wimbledon 2025! Dan will be rounding up all the action from the Championships, joined by special guests from the world of tennis.These are shorter episodes that we´ll bring you throughout the tournament to provide you with insights and a round-up of the biggest talking points of the tournament. Today, Dan is joined by Tom Linley, a hitting partner at Wimbledon this year. Hitting with players such as Novak Djokovic, Grigor Dimitrov, Jakub Mensik, Elena Rybakina, and so many more. Episode Highlights:- Tom is talking about what it is like to train with ATP and WTA players whilst at the championships. The conditions and the realities of being a hitting partner at Wimbledon. The biggest stories over the 1st week at Wimbledon. Big matches to watch out for going forward And ending with a Wimbledon celebrity quiz! Each episode is LIVE on YouTube by searching 'Control the Controllables Podcast' and following our Instagram and Twitter (X) for the latest times!If you have any questions you'd like Dan or our guests to answer live on the episode, please send them through any of our social media channels, sure to get back to you! CTC Instagram: www.instagram.com/ctc.podcastCTC Tiktok: www.tiktok.com/@controlthecontrollablesCTC X: www.x.com/ctc__podcast Thanks for listening!Control The Controllables.
Our CTC LIVE series is back for Wimbledon 2025! Dan will be rounding up all the action from the Championships.These are shorter episodes that we´ll bring you throughout the tournament to provide you with insights and a round-up of the biggest talking points of the day.Today, Dan is joined by Erin Routliffe's coach and head coach of Penn State's tennis program, Bruce Lipka.Episode Highlights:-Cultural differences play a role in how players adapt to international tournaments.More seeded players falling.Oliver Tarvet's debut on Centre Court and Emma Radacanu beating the 2023 Wimbledon Champion in straight sets.Coaches have a crucial role in developing players both on and off the court.College tennis is becoming a legitimate pathway to professional tennis careers.Celebrity sightings at major tournaments can add excitement to the event.The mental aspect of tennis is as important as the physical side.Players need to establish daily rituals to maintain consistency while travelling. Each episode is LIVE on YouTube by searching 'Control the Controllables Podcast' and following our Instagram and Twitter (X) for the latest times!CTC Instagram: www.instagram.com/ctc.podcastCTC Tiktok: www.tiktok.com/@controlthecontrollablesCTC X: www.x.com/ctc__podcastThanks for listening!
Our CTC LIVE series is back for Wimbledon 2025! Dan will be rounding up all the action from the Championships.These are shorter episodes that we´ll bring you throughout the tournament to give you insights and a round-up of the biggest talking points of the day.In our Day 1 Recap, Dan is joined by the coach of Elmer Moller and Holmgren and Denmark´s Davis Cup captain, Freddie Nielsen.And Top S&C Coach Kieron Vorster who has worked with Liam Broady, Dan Evans, Tim Henman and Wayne Ferreira.Episode Highlights:-Is tournaments such as Halle, Eastobourne good preparation for WimbledonWhy are so many seeded players going out in round 1Freddie’s player August Holmgren progressing to Round 2 after a straight sets victoryMatches to watch out for on Day 3 Each episode is LIVE on YouTube by searching 'Control the Controllables Podcast' and following our Instagram and Twitter (X) for the latest times!CTC Instagram: www.instagram.com/ctc.podcastCTC Tiktok: www.tiktok.com/@controlthecontrollablesCTC X: www.x.com/ctc__podcastThanks for listening!
Our CTC LIVE series is back for Wimbledon 2025! Dan will be rounding up all the action from the Championships.These are shorter episodes that we´ll bring you throughout the tournament to give you insights and a round-up of the biggest talking points of the day.In our Day 1 Recap, Dan is joined by the coach of Elmer Moller and Holmgren and Denmark´s Davis Cup captain, Freddie Nielsen.Episode Highlights:-Men´s seeds Holger Rune, Griekspoor, Medvedev and more who are already out.How are the players coping with the Wimbledon weather.Freddie reflects on Elmer Moller's Wimbledon debut against Francis TiafoeBritish players including Sonay Kartal, Oliver Tarvet and Billy Harris who are through to round 2.Each episode is LIVE on YouTube by searching 'Control the Controllables Podcast' and following our Instagram and Twitter (X) for the latest times!CTC Instagram: www.instagram.com/ctc.podcastCTC Tiktok: www.tiktok.com/@controlthecontrollablesCTC X: www.x.com/ctc__podcastThanks for listening!
Wimbledon 2025 LIVE Preview

Wimbledon 2025 LIVE Preview

2025-06-3001:00:13

Our favourite Grand Slam here at Control the Controllables is underway! Our panellists are back to chat through everything we can expect from Wimbledon 2025.Dan went live on YouTube from SW19 for this year´s Wimbledon Preview episode. You can listen to everything they discussed, including which players to watch out for, predictions to pick up the titles and their potential popcorn match-ups. 🍿.Joining CTC Host Dan Kiernan on our Live Preview was:-Denmark´s Davis Cup Captain and 2012 Wimbledon Doubles Champion, Freddie NielsenTop S&C Coach Kieron Vorster who has worked with Liam Broady, Dan Evans, Tim Henman and Wayne Ferreira.Head to our CTC YouTube channel and hit Subscribe to listen to Dan´s LIVE updates from Wimbledon over the next fortnight. And follow us on Instagram to watch what Dan and CTC Producer Harry are up to during the tournament.
Taro Daniel is an American-Japanese pro tennis player and Olympian who´s reached a career high of 58 in the world.He joins Dan to chat through his tennis journey from his upbringing in Japan, the United States and Spain, to wins over some of the biggest names in the sport including Novak Djokovic, Andy Murray, Casper Ruud & Ben Shelton. Taro speaks openly about the highs and lows of constantly touring, the challenges of maintaining mental health in a competitive environment, and how tennis has changed post-COVID. Episode Highlights:The importance of team dynamics and personal relationships in navigating the ups and downs of his career. Find out the big changes he´s witnessed on the tour since going pro in 2010.The advantages some junior payers had in their training being born in the noughties compared to the nineties!Taro tells us his toughest ever opponent and who he likes playing the least.Links Mentioned in this Episode:-Follow Taro Daniel on InstagramSotoTennis AcademyEpisode 25: John Millman You can now watch clips and full episodes of Control the Controllables on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@ctc.podcast
What a French Open we were given this year, with what many are calling the greatest final of all time between Carlos Alcaraz & Jannik Sinner! In this episode, our Grand Slam panelists break down all the action from Roland Garros which saw Alcaraz & Coco Gauff crowned Singles Champions.GB´s Neal Skupski also makes a special appearance after reaching the final of the Men´s Doubles with fellow Brit Joe Salisbury.Joining CTC host Dan Kiernan are:-Freddie Nielsen: 2012 Wimbledon Men's Doubles Champion, Denmark´s Davis Cup Captain and coach to Elmer Møller.Kieron Vorster: Top Strength and Conditioning coach who´s worked with Dan Evans, Liam Broady and Sorana Cirstea.Episode Highlights include:-The significance of the incredible mens final on tennis history.Sinner´s resilience despite losing the final.Neal Skupski shares valuable insights from his fortnight in Paris.How rivalries in tennis can be friendly yet competitive.Coco Gauff's victory showcased her potential as a star for now and the future.Sabalenka's reaction post-match raised questions about sportsmanship.Lois Boisson’s amazing run to the semi-finals and climbing 296 places the WTA rankings.British success in wheelchair tennis & the juniors.If you enjoy this episode, please take a moment to subscribe and leave a review on Apple Podcasts! Your support helps us reach more tennis players, coaches and parents who need these insights.
Spain has dominated tennis for more than 2 decades, but is their reign finally coming to an end?The country has seen a drop in the number of top 100 players in both the mens and women´s game.In today´s episode we speak to US Coach Chris Lewit who has spent the past 20 years studying Spanish tennis to discuss why this is. We look at the current state and future of tennis in Spain, the impact of more international players training in the country, and why he thinks modernising training methodologies is needed to keep Spain dominant on the world stage.Topics we look into include:Generational shifts in attitudes towards tennis.Has training more international players rather than native Spaniards had an affect?The serve is often neglected in traditional Spanish training.Does this generation of players have the willingness to suffer and sacrifice like Nadal did?Does Carlos Alcaraz represent a new generation of Spanish players with a different style?The future of Spanish tennis depends on evolving methodologies and focusing on grassroots development.Links Mentioned in this episode:-Check out Chris Lewit´s book: The Secrets of Spanish TennisSupport Dan´s 15K Your Way Challenge to raise money for Alzheimer´s Society UKFollow Control the Controllables on Instagram to keep up with all the latest on the show!Find out more about SotoTennis Academy in Spain!
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