Tennis IQ Podcast

Chris Harwood, PhD is a Professor of Sport Psychology at Nottingham Trent University and an Honorary Professor of Loughborough University in the UK. He is currently the Director of the Sport, Health and Performance Enhancement (SHAPE) research centre at NTU where his research interests lie in the integration of psychological principles into youth sport settings and the roles of the coach, parents, and the wider organisational support system. Prior to his training and registration as a Sport Psychologist, Chris was head coach and then Director of Tennis at Loughborough University in the 1990s, and has worked as lead psychologist in professional football and as lead psychologist for the Lawn Tennis Association in the UK. Chris has been a long standing member of the WTA tour player development advisory panel and supports junior and pro players, their families and support teams in his private practice. He still enjoys competing as a masters tennis player for his County team in the UK. Chris developed the 5Cs framework as a user-friendly method of integrating key concepts of psychology into player development programmes and environments. The 5Cs are commitment, communication, concentration, control, and confidence.To learn more about Josh and Brian's backgrounds and sport psychology businesses, go to TiebreakerPsych.com and PerformanceXtra.com. If you have feedback about the show or questions on the mental game in tennis you can email us at tennisiqpodcast@gmail.com. If you’re enjoying the show please rate us on your favorite podcast platform including Apple Podcasts and Spotify and write a review. Don’t forget to subscribe on YouTube or your podcast platform of choice (Apple Podcasts, Spotify, etc.) to stay up to date on future episodes.

In this episode, Brian and Josh discuss the multi-faceted relationship between passion and performance (The Dualistic Model of Passion). The co-hosts review the applications of this research for tennis performance, and cover how athletes can improve performance and foster subjective well-being via harmonious passion.Research article: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/j.1467-6494.2007.00447.xTo learn more about Josh and Brian's backgrounds and sport psychology businesses, go to TiebreakerPsych.com and PerformanceXtra.com. If you have feedback about the show or questions on the mental game in tennis you can email us at tennisiqpodcast@gmail.com. If you’re enjoying the show please rate us on your favorite podcast platform including Apple Podcasts and Spotify and write a review. Don’t forget to subscribe on YouTube or your podcast platform of choice (Apple Podcasts, Spotify, etc.) to stay up to date on future episodes.

In this episode, Brian and Josh discuss the concept of precommitments as a means for setting intentions for coping with challenges and adversity. Tennis is tough; can you precommit to enjoying yourself, learning, and embracing the challenge? Precommiting to such behaviors gives you a greater chance of following through.To learn more about Josh and Brian's backgrounds and sport psychology businesses, go to TiebreakerPsych.com and PerformanceXtra.com. If you have feedback about the show or questions on the mental game in tennis you can email us at tennisiqpodcast@gmail.com. If you’re enjoying the show please rate us on your favorite podcast platform including Apple Podcasts and Spotify and write a review. Don’t forget to subscribe on YouTube or your podcast platform of choice (Apple Podcasts, Spotify, etc.) to stay up to date on future episodes.

In this episode, Brian and Josh discuss the importance of embracing boredom and the mundane in an athlete’s journey towards improvement. They discuss a recent LinkedIn post by Alex Auerbach in which he noted that athletes who embrace boredom during training and competition tend to excel and have longer careers. The co-hosts share their responses to his post and include their own observations about the role of the "boring" aspects of training.LinkedIn Post by Alex Auerbach - https://www.linkedin.com/posts/alexauerbachphd_after-10-years-in-pro-sports-ive-seen-activity-7377311042604838912-kyaS/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop&rcm=ACoAAAs8MQgB9r-w4UDn97T-PgScxfDwzNBQCKgTo learn more about Josh and Brian's backgrounds and sport psychology businesses, go to TiebreakerPsych.com and PerformanceXtra.com. If you have feedback about the show or questions on the mental game in tennis you can email us at tennisiqpodcast@gmail.com. If you’re enjoying the show please rate us on your favorite podcast platform including Apple Podcasts and Spotify and write a review. Don’t forget to subscribe on YouTube or your podcast platform of choice (Apple Podcasts, Spotify, etc.) to stay up to date on future episodes.

In this episode, Brian and Josh discuss how to attain greatness through adaptability and balance. The co-hosts discuss various chapters from Brian Johnson’s book Areté, which emphasize the importance of these two skills. Lastly, they review how tennis players can become more adaptable over time and find better balance in their tennis journeys.To learn more about Josh and Brian's backgrounds and sport psychology businesses, go to TiebreakerPsych.com and PerformanceXtra.com. If you have feedback about the show or questions on the mental game in tennis you can email us at tennisiqpodcast@gmail.com. If you’re enjoying the show please rate us on your favorite podcast platform including Apple Podcasts and Spotify and write a review. Don’t forget to subscribe on YouTube or your podcast platform of choice (Apple Podcasts, Spotify, etc.) to stay up to date on future episodes.

In this episode, Brian and Josh talk about a recent article from the Journal of the Philosophy of Sport regarding "talent loss." The co-hosts outline the three central views of talent loss from the article, share personal experiences and discuss various pro tennis players who have navigated life changes and this type of loss. Additionally, they offer suggestions that tennis players can incorporate to prepare for this in advance.Article - https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/epdf/10.1080/00948705.2024.2420364?needAccess=trueSponsored by Geau Sport - GeauSport.com - Exclusive Discount Code for 10% Off - TennisIQ10To learn more about Josh and Brian's backgrounds and sport psychology businesses, go to TiebreakerPsych.com and PerformanceXtra.com. If you have feedback about the show or questions on the mental game in tennis you can email us at tennisiqpodcast@gmail.com. If you’re enjoying the show please rate us on your favorite podcast platform including Apple Podcasts and Spotify and write a review. Don’t forget to subscribe on YouTube or your podcast platform of choice (Apple Podcasts, Spotify, etc.) to stay up to date on future episodes.

In this episode, Brian and Josh cover how tennis players can build the skill of reframing situations and shifting perspective. The co-hosts discuss why reframing is an important skill for players, review situations where it’s important to be able to reframe, and offer suggestions for how tennis players can shift their perspective in the moment as well as for the long-term.Sponsored by Geau Sport - GeauSport.com - Exclusive Discount Code for 10% Off - TennisIQ10To learn more about Josh and Brian's backgrounds and sport psychology businesses, go to TiebreakerPsych.com and PerformanceXtra.com. If you have feedback about the show or questions on the mental game in tennis you can email us at tennisiqpodcast@gmail.com. If you’re enjoying the show please rate us on your favorite podcast platform including Apple Podcasts and Spotify and write a review. Don’t forget to subscribe on YouTube or your podcast platform of choice (Apple Podcasts, Spotify, etc.) to stay up to date on future episodes.

In this episode, Brian and Josh cover the 2025 U.S. Open Championships. They discuss various themes and sport psychology concepts that emerged from the tournament, particularly by champions and finalists Aryna Sabalenka, Amanda Anisimova, Carlos Alcaraz, and Jannik Sinner.To learn more about Josh and Brian's backgrounds and sport psychology businesses, go to TiebreakerPsych.com and PerformanceXtra.com. If you have feedback about the show or questions on the mental game in tennis you can email us at tennisiqpodcast@gmail.com. If you’re enjoying the show please rate us on your favorite podcast platform including Apple Podcasts and Spotify and write a review. Don’t forget to subscribe on YouTube or your podcast platform of choice (Apple Podcasts, Spotify, etc.) to stay up to date on future episodes.

In this episode, Brian and Josh discuss whether double faulting is solely a technical issue, a mental issue, or a combination of the two. Recently Coco Gauff decided to start working with biomechanical expert Gavin MacMillan to help her overcome her increase in double faults. The co-hosts discuss the Gauff's coaching change, review the causes of double faults, and offer suggestions for how tennis players can approach their first serves and second serves in more effective ways.Article: https://tennisnow.com/News/2025/news/gauff-fires-coach-daly-aims-to-sharpen-serve.aspxSponsored by Geau Sport - GeauSport.com - Exclusive Discount Code for 10% Off - TennisIQ10To learn more about Josh and Brian's backgrounds and sport psychology businesses, go to TiebreakerPsych.com and PerformanceXtra.com. If you have feedback about the show or questions on the mental game in tennis you can email us at tennisiqpodcast@gmail.com. If you’re enjoying the show please rate us on your favorite podcast platform including Apple Podcasts and Spotify and write a review. Don’t forget to subscribe on YouTube or your podcast platform of choice (Apple Podcasts, Spotify, etc.) to stay up to date on future episodes.

In this episode, Brian and Josh discuss the connection between commitment and enthusiasm. Using several quotes as inspiration, they review how tennis players can demonstrate commitment to their journey, show commitment to their goals, and how they can pursue their chosen journey and goals with enthusiasm and zest.Sponsored by Geau Sport - GeauSport.com - Exclusive Discount Code for 10% Off - TennisIQ10To learn more about Josh and Brian's backgrounds and sport psychology businesses, go to TiebreakerPsych.com and PerformanceXtra.com. If you have feedback about the show or questions on the mental game in tennis you can email us at tennisiqpodcast@gmail.com. If you’re enjoying the show please rate us on your favorite podcast platform including Apple Podcasts and Spotify and write a review. Don’t forget to subscribe on YouTube or your podcast platform of choice (Apple Podcasts, Spotify, etc.) to stay up to date on future episodes.

In this episode, Brian and Josh discuss the concept of momentum in tennis. First, they define the term, then they discuss the research about momentum in tennis and question whether momentum objectively exists. They review ways for tennis players to build streaks of points, and also ways to approach things differently when momentum seems to be working against them.Sponsored by Geau Sport - GeauSport.com - Exclusive Discount Code for 10% Off - TennisIQ10To learn more about Josh and Brian's backgrounds and sport psychology businesses, go to TiebreakerPsych.com and PerformanceXtra.com. If you have feedback about the show or questions on the mental game in tennis you can email us at tennisiqpodcast@gmail.com. If you’re enjoying the show please rate us on your favorite podcast platform including Apple Podcasts and Spotify and write a review. Don’t forget to subscribe on YouTube or your podcast platform of choice (Apple Podcasts, Spotify, etc.) to stay up to date on future episodes.

In this episode, Brian and Josh utilize a recent article about Taylor Fritz as inspiration to discuss the path of wisdom for elite competitors. In the discussion, they discuss specific aspects of Fritz's perspectives on success and achievement, and compare those to the perspectives of elite competitors like Kobe Bryant and Rafael Nadal. This episode also discusses a model of stages of wisdom for tennis players, and how to evolve to a place of enlightenment.Interview with Taylor Fritz - https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2025/jun/25/taylor-fritz-wimbledon-tennis-grand-slamSponsored by Geau Sport - GeauSport.com - Exclusive Discount Code for 10% Off - TennisIQ10To learn more about Josh and Brian's backgrounds and sport psychology businesses, go to TiebreakerPsych.com and PerformanceXtra.com. If you have feedback about the show or questions on the mental game in tennis you can email us at tennisiqpodcast@gmail.com. If you’re enjoying the show please rate us on your favorite podcast platform including Apple Podcasts and Spotify and write a review. Don’t forget to subscribe on YouTube or your podcast platform of choice (Apple Podcasts, Spotify, etc.) to stay up to date on future episodes.

In this episode, Brian and Josh respond to a listener's question regarding resetting between points and handling emotions on the court. The co-hosts talk about how tennis players can focus on their competitive and fighting skills in addition to their tennis skills and strokes while playing. Additionally, they highlight the importance of the between-point routine, and discuss how using “green light” and “yellow light” routines can help players in different situations that come up.Sponsored by Geau Sport - GeauSport.com - Exclusive Discount Code for 10% Off - TennisIQ10To learn more about Josh and Brian's backgrounds and sport psychology businesses, go to TiebreakerPsych.com and PerformanceXtra.com. If you have feedback about the show or questions on the mental game in tennis you can email us at tennisiqpodcast@gmail.com. If you’re enjoying the show please rate us on your favorite podcast platform including Apple Podcasts and Spotify and write a review. Don’t forget to subscribe on YouTube or your podcast platform of choice (Apple Podcasts, Spotify, etc.) to stay up to date on future episodes.

In this episode, Brian and Josh discuss how to handle training and rest leading up to tournaments. They review how players can approach their tournament schedule for the year to ensure that it aligns with their goals and vision for themselves. Additionally, they examine the importance of rest mentally and physically, and share anecdotes of professional and recreational players who chose to prioritize rest and recovery.Sponsored by Geau Sport - GeauSport.com - Exclusive Discount Code for 10% Off - TennisIQ10To learn more about Josh and Brian's backgrounds and sport psychology businesses, go to TiebreakerPsych.com and PerformanceXtra.com. If you have feedback about the show or questions on the mental game in tennis you can email us at tennisiqpodcast@gmail.com. If you’re enjoying the show please rate us on your favorite podcast platform including Apple Podcasts and Spotify and write a review. Don’t forget to subscribe on YouTube or your podcast platform of choice (Apple Podcasts, Spotify, etc.) to stay up to date on future episodes.

In this episode, Brian and Josh discuss the 2025 Wimbledon Championships. Iga Świątek won the women’s singles title over Amanda Anisimova 6-0, 6,0, and Jannik Sinner won the men’s singles title over Carlos Alcaraz 4-6, 6-4, 6-4, 6-4. The co-hosts discuss the women’s and men’s singles championship matches and review sport psychology themes that they observed from the tournament.Sponsored by Geau Sport - GeauSport.com - Exclusive Discount Code for 10% Off - TennisIQ10To learn more about Josh and Brian's backgrounds and sport psychology businesses, go to TiebreakerPsych.com and PerformanceXtra.com. If you have feedback about the show or questions on the mental game in tennis you can email us at tennisiqpodcast@gmail.com. If you’re enjoying the show please rate us on your favorite podcast platform including Apple Podcasts and Spotify and write a review. Don’t forget to subscribe on YouTube or your podcast platform of choice (Apple Podcasts, Spotify, etc.) to stay up to date on future episodes.

In this episode, Brian and Josh discuss the impact of deep breathing for tennis players. They review the benefits of breathing from a scientific perspective, discuss how tennis players can breathe more effectively during points, and cover how specific breathing exercises can be utilized off the court. The conversation was based on a recent article from The Athletic (linked below) which examined how elite athletes from different backgrounds are utilizing breathing in different performance contexts.Article from The Athletic- https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6321893/2025/05/01/the-science-is-clear-deep-breathing-can-be-a-game-changer-for-anyone-elite-athletes-agree/How To Breathe Perfectly In Tennis (Top Tennis Training)https://youtu.be/E0iUIDQpMHA?si=w0McR5tjHIlpACsTo learn more about Josh and Brian's backgrounds and sport psychology businesses, go to TiebreakerPsych.com and PerformanceXtra.com. If you have feedback about the show or questions on the mental game in tennis you can email us at tennisiqpodcast@gmail.com. If you’re enjoying the show please rate us on your favorite podcast platform including Apple Podcasts and Spotify and write a review. Don’t forget to subscribe on YouTube or your podcast platform of choice (Apple Podcasts, Spotify, etc.) to stay up to date on future episodes.

In this episode, Brian and Josh discuss the benefit of going backwards or forwards in time to gain perspective and to perform better in the present. They talk about how looking back to one’s past journey can lead people to find perspective, give themselves more credit, and be proud of the path they’ve taken and progress they’ve made. Additionally, they discuss the benefits of being able to envision someone’s desired future self and to plan accordingly by taking steps today that their future self will be proud of.To learn more about Josh and Brian's backgrounds and sport psychology businesses, go to TiebreakerPsych.com and PerformanceXtra.com. If you have feedback about the show or questions on the mental game in tennis you can email us at tennisiqpodcast@gmail.com. If you’re enjoying the show please rate us on your favorite podcast platform including Apple Podcasts and Spotify and write a review. Don’t forget to subscribe on YouTube or your podcast platform of choice (Apple Podcasts, Spotify, etc.) to stay up to date on future episodes.

Roland Garros 2025 has wrapped up with Coco Gauff winning the women’s singles title over Aryna Sabalenka 6-7(5), 6-2, 6-4, and Carlos Alcaraz winning the men’s singles title over Jannik Sinner 4-6, 6-7(4), 6-4, 7-6(3), 7-6(2). In this episode, Brian and Josh discuss the women’s and men’s singles championships, and review sport psychology themes that the co-hosts observed within the tournament and the championship matches.To learn more about Josh and Brian's backgrounds and sport psychology businesses, go to TiebreakerPsych.com and PerformanceXtra.com. If you have feedback about the show or questions on the mental game in tennis you can email us at tennisiqpodcast@gmail.com. If you’re enjoying the show please rate us on your favorite podcast platform including Apple Podcasts and Spotify and write a review. Don’t forget to subscribe on YouTube or your podcast platform of choice (Apple Podcasts, Spotify, etc.) to stay up to date on future episodes.

This episode focuses on ADHD in sport, and features an interview with Dr. Josephine Perry. Dr. Josephine Perry is a Chartered Sport Psychologist who works with record breaking athletes, performers on the stage and screen and senior leaders in business, medicine and law. She helps her clients understand themselves, their purpose and their values and teaches them the skills to overcome their mental barriers so they feel comfortable and confident when they perform. Josephine has a PhD from the London School of Economics in political communications and used these skills working in large corporations, charities and government as a corporate communications director for 15 years. She retrained in Sport Psychology having caught the bug for competing in Ironman races and realizing she might perform better if she used her brain as well as her body. She now splits her time between working with high performers, lecturing at the Open University and writing. She has published 5 books and regularly comments on performance psychology in the media including BBC Breakfast, ITN News, BBC Ten O’Clock News and Women’s Hour.ADHD in Sport: Strategies for SuccessTo learn more about Josh and Brian's backgrounds and sport psychology businesses, go to TiebreakerPsych.com and PerformanceXtra.com. If you have feedback about the show or questions on the mental game in tennis you can email us at tennisiqpodcast@gmail.com. If you’re enjoying the show please rate us on your favorite podcast platform including Apple Podcasts and Spotify and write a review. Don’t forget to subscribe on YouTube or your podcast platform of choice (Apple Podcasts, Spotify, etc.) to stay up to date on future episodes.

In this episode, Brian and Josh discuss the benefits of generating positive affect on and off the court. According to PositivePsychology.com, “positive affectivity refers to positive emotions and expression, including cheerfulness, pride, enthusiasm, energy, and joy. Negative affectivity is negative emotions and expression, which includes sadness, disgust, lethargy, fear, and distress”. Positive affect can be generated intentionally when players utilize certain behaviors prior to and during matches, including meditation and gratitude.To learn more about Josh and Brian's backgrounds and sport psychology businesses, go to TiebreakerPsych.com and PerformanceXtra.com. If you have feedback about the show or questions on the mental game in tennis you can email us at tennisiqpodcast@gmail.com. If you’re enjoying the show please rate us on your favorite podcast platform including Apple Podcasts and Spotify and write a review. Don’t forget to subscribe on YouTube or your podcast platform of choice (Apple Podcasts, Spotify, etc.) to stay up to date on future episodes.