Ground Pass: A Tennis Podcast

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.

Anastasia sits down at the Cincinnati Open with Brian Garber, coach of Ethan Quinn, for a candid conversation about the realities of life as a pro tennis coach. From starting out feeding balls to kids and ladies’ teams, to learning under Brad Stine, to now guiding one of America’s most promising young players, Brian shares his coaching philosophy, the importance of relationships, and what it takes to survive the grind of the ATP Tour.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 and Nick wrap up the final Grand Slam of the year with a full US Open 2025 review. From Carlos Alcaraz defeating Jannik Sinner in their third final of the season, to Aryna Sabalenka defending her title against Amanda Anisimova, we break down the biggest matches and storylines.We also highlight Taylor Townsend’s run, Granollers & Zeballos’ doubles win, the fan experience on site (ticket prices, Armstrong vs Ashe, presidential delays), and our Players of the Fortnight. Plus, what’s next on the WTA and ATP tours with Guadalajara, São Paulo, and the Davis Cup tie in Delray Beach.CHAPTERS00:00 Grand Slam Season Reflection Intro02:29 Men's Doubles Final Heartbreak07:08 Women's Singles Final Analysis17:16 The Future of Women's Tennis23:19 Men's Singles Final Recap36:56 Tournament Review: Highlights and Lowlights01:08:34 Upcoming Tournaments and Player Of the Fortnight01:13:11 Player of the Fortnight: Celebrating Achievements01:17:44 Outro👉 Let us know your favorite match or moment from the US Open in the comments!Also We have Merch!!!Ground Pass Shop - https://www.groundpasspodcast.com/ground-pass-shop💬 Don’t forget to give us a LIKE and SUBSCRIBE 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.

The second part of our US Open Threads series dives into the fashion highs, lows, and surprises of the 2025 US Openwith Ian Mondul of 40 Love. Anastasia and Ian go through their faves (Musetti, Sabalenka, Venus, Townsend, Sinner/Alcaraz), the biggest misses (Draper’s Vuori debut, Tiafoe’s tiger stripes, Adidas Y-3 backlash), plus surprises like Paolini’s shimmering ASICS dress and doubles teams turning out in matching kits.We wrap with overall takes on the rise of individuality in tennis fashion, why women’s kits outshone men’s, and the colors that ruled the Open: red and purple.📺 Watch the video version on YouTube for slides and style breakdowns.🎧 Listen to Part 1 with Jessica Schiffer (Hard Court) for the fashion x high-fashion crossover. - https://youtu.be/TkzNGPbDCUE?si=cz81m5wdIwXl42bFChapters00:00 Intro & Ian’s background04:15 Faves (Musetti, Sabalenka, Townsend, Venus, Sinner, Alcaraz, doubles teams)33:26 Misses (Draper, Tiafoe, On, Adidas Y-3)53:39 Surprises (ASICS shimmer, Lehecka, Townsend, Nike walkout kits)1:03:04 Overall takes: sleeveless era, individuality, women’s kits better than men’s01:11:00 OutroAlso We have Merch!!!Ground Pass Shop - https://www.groundpasspodcast.com/ground-pass-shop💬 Don’t forget to give us a LIKE and SUBSCRIBE 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 and Nick break down all the semifinal action from the US Open and set the stage for finals weekend. We cover Sabalenka’s battle with Pegula, Anisimova’s win over Osaka, Alcaraz’s straight-sets victory over Djokovic, and Sinner’s strong run past Felix Auger-Aliassime. Plus: doubles storylines, including Dabrowski & Routliffe’s win and Salisbury & Skupski’s historic run.We close with previews of the women’s final — Aryna Sabalenka vs Amanda Anisimova — and the blockbuster men’s final: Jannik Sinner vs Carlos Alcaraz for the trophy and the No. 1 ranking.CHAPTERS00:00 Introduction and New Setups01:57 Semifinals Recap03:54 Aryna Sabalenka v Jessica Pegula10:44 Amanda Anisimova V Naomi Osaka22:38 Men's Semi-Finals: Djokovic vs. Alcaraz37:57 Jannik Sinner V Felix Auger Aliassime48:56 Women's Double Final Recap & Men's Doubles Final Preview53:52 Men's Doubles Final Preview: British Hopes58:16 Finals Preview58:37 Women's Final Preview: Sabalenka vs. Anisimova01:05:28 Men's Final Preview: Sinner vs. Alcaraz01:08:56 Thank you and OutroAlso We have Merch!!!Ground Pass Shop - https://www.groundpasspodcast.com/ground-pass-shop💬 Don’t forget to give us a LIKE and SUBSCRIBE 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.

In Part 1 of our US Open Threads series, Anastasia is joined by journalist Jessica Schiffer (Hard Court) to explore how tennis and high fashion are becoming inseparable. From luxury house partnerships (Gucci/Sinner, LV/Alcaraz, Miu Miu/Coco, Burberry/Tommy) to Jack Draper’s brand shift, the rise of WAG-fronted campaigns, and jewelry deals, we break down what feels authentic—and what doesn’t. We also gush over Lorenzo Musetti’s Bottega era and take a victory lap for Venus Williams’s US Open looks (Khaite, Phillip Lim, Who Decides War) including her Althea Gibson nod and that iconic racquet bag. Plus: why the ATP is formalizing style with pre-Open styling suites, and what we want next for the WTA.Part 2—our brand-by-brand Hits & Misses—is up next.—Guest: Jessica Schiffer, founder of Hard Court, the weekly tennis style/business newsletter.Watch the video version on YouTube to see the looks we reference.Chapters00:00 Intro01:29 Who is Jessica Schiffer of Hard Court06:00 Jack Drapers new Deal07:31 Brand Partnerships and Player Identity09:21 The Rise of WAGs in Tennis12:43 Luxury Brands and Tennis Collaborations19:57 Jewelry Trends in Tennis Fashion24:31 The Allure of Lorenzo Musetti28:31 Venus Williams: A Fashion Icon at the US Open35:37 ATP's Fashion Marketing Initiative40:19 WTA's Fashion Opportunities and Challenges44:25 OutroSubscribe to Ground Pass for more: on-site stories, guides, and style talk.Part 2 (Hits & Misses) drops next.Also We have Merch!!!Ground Pass Shop - https://www.groundpasspodcast.com/ground-pass-shop💬 Don’t forget to give us a LIKE and SUBSCRIBE 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.

The US Open semifinals are here, and Ground Pass has you covered. Anastasia is joined by Mitch Michals to break down the quarterfinals and preview tonight’s semifinals in New York.They dive into:Jannik Sinner’s unstoppable form and Felix Auger-Aliassime’s nervy four-set battleDjokovic vs. Fritz and the infamous headband momentAlcaraz’s locked-in run to the semisNaomi Osaka vs. Amanda Anisimova: a redemption story on the biggest stageJessica Pegula steady as ever, Sabalenka chasing her first slam of the yearA look ahead at the women’s doubles final featuring Taylor Townsend & Katerina SiniakovaThe semifinal lineup is set — and it’s a movie.Chapters00:00 Quarterfinal Recap and Semifinals Preview02:51 Men's Quater finals Recap03:00 Jannik Sinner V Lorenzo Musetti06:26 Felix Auger Aliassime v Alex De Minaur11:10 Taylor Fritz V Novak Djokovic16:47 Carlos Alcaraz V Jiri Lecheka21:50 Women's Quaterfinal recap - Sabalenka walkover26:56 Osaka v Muchova31:46 Anisimova v Swiatek37:48 Semi Final Preview - Womens43:43 Semi Final Preview - Men49:17 Women's Doubles Final Preview52:27 OutroAlso We have Merch!!!Ground Pass Shop - https://www.groundpasspodcast.com/ground-pass-shop💬 Don’t forget to give us a LIKE and SUBSCRIBE 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 and Nick take you through all the stories from Rounds 3 & 4 of the US Open 2025. From Taylor Townsend’s showdown with Barbora Krejčíková to Naomi Osaka’s big night against Coco Gauff, plus Felix Auger-Aliassime’s run and Jannik Sinner lighting up Ashe. We also get into doubles, the new virtual queue, and set up the quarterfinal matches.Chapters:0:00 – Intro2:48 – Calm after the storm4:05 – Taylor Townsend v Barbora Krejčíková14:28 – US Open or Czech Open20:20 – Naomi Osaka26:14 – Coco Gauff31:01 – Felix Auger-Aliassime38:07 – Jannik Sinner/Ashe51:24 – Virtual queue55:18 – Doubles58:44 – Quarterfinal matches1:06:26 – ConclusionsAlso We have Merch!!!Links:Taylor Townsends Press Conference - https://youtu.be/JGet76nPxfA?si=wznqOByRTkJHLcps Ground Pass Shop - https://www.groundpasspodcast.com/ground-pass-shop💬 Don’t forget to give us a LIKE and SUBSCRIBE 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 and Nick are back on Ground Pass with a full roundup of Rounds 1 and 2 at the US Open. From Taylor Townsend’s fiery clash with Jelena Ostapenko, to Venus Williams lighting up the night session, to Emma Raducanu’s return and Carlos Alcaraz cruising into form — we break down the biggest wins, surprises, and early exits shaping the tournament.Jack On the line's interview with Gavin McMillian - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hx8UvG5i62Also We have Merch!!!Links:Taylor Townsends Press Conference - https://youtu.be/JGet76nPxfA?si=wznqOByRTkJHLcps Ground Pass Shop - https://www.groundpasspodcast.com/ground-pass-shop💬 Don’t forget to give us a LIKE and SUBSCRIBE 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.