The Functional Tennis Podcast

I randomly came across the Yonex popup while in Melbourne and inside Darren Cahill (Coach of Jannik Sinner) was having a Q&A with some people so I joined in briefly.Darren a former player has previously worked with Lleyton Hewitt, Andre Agassi and Simona Halep.The importance of resilience in tennis successBuilding strong habits for consistent performanceWhy Yannick Sinner’s parents stayed out of coachingTurning setbacks into opportunities for growthThe transition from player to coach and team-buildingThe sound quality is lower than normal as I only had my phone and it was noisy but there's plenty to learn in this short recording.Finally a big thanks to Asics Tennis for flying me down to Melbourne to help launch their new Asics Gel Resolution X.FabioThis podcast is sponsored by ASICS. ASICS is a Japanese company founded in 1949 to give more people the opportunity to experience how sports and movement can have a positive impact on mental well-being.To learn more about ASICS visit their website here: https://www.asics.com/nl/en-nl/sports/tennis/Find us on Social Media:Instagram: Instagram.com/FunctionalTennisTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@functionaltennis

Let's learn about Swing Speed, modern tennis and the New Tecnifibre T-Fight which has just launched.The next-gen forehand has evolved and requires faster swing speed and more manoeuvrability. Tecnifibre has been tracking this with their tecnilab programme and today the head customizer Dieter Calle joins me alongside the Tecnifibre Chief Marketing Office Matthieu Bauduin to discuss why and how it has changed and how the. new T-Fight is aligned to these changes. If you're interested in tennis and equipment there is plenty to learn in this episode and a new racket to consider for your game that pros such as Medvedev and Iga Swiatek are usingTakeaways: The evolution of tennis rackets has led to a significant decrease in weight and swing weight, making them more manoeuvrable for modern players. Customization of rackets is crucial for players, as it allows them to achieve optimal performance tailored to their specific playing style. The new Technifibre T-Fight racket is designed for the fast-paced nature of contemporary tennis. Players today often prefer lighter rackets that still provide power and stability, shifting away from heavier models. The input from top players during the development of the T-Fight was invaluable, guiding its specifications and design. Technifibre's focus on player feedback ensures that its products align with the needs of both amateur and professional players.

Jesper De Jong, a rising Dutch tennis player, shares his journey from a young athlete to competing on the world stage, including his experiences qualifying for his first Grand Slam and playing against top players like Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz. With a steady rise in rankings and a strong team behind him, Jesper emphasizes the importance of consistency and hard work in achieving his goals. He discusses the challenges of balancing training in a beautiful yet distracting location like Bali, while also reflecting on the camaraderie fostered by training with teammates. Jesper candidly reveals the impact of his battle with mononucleosis on his career trajectory, and how he has managed to regain and build upon his form. As he looks forward to breaking into the top 100, he highlights the significance of enjoying the sport and maintaining a healthy mindset throughout his journey.Takeaways: Jesper De Jong emphasizes the importance of enjoying tennis, especially during the early years of training. He shares his journey from a tennis novice to competing against top players like Alcaraz and Sinner. The experience of qualifying for his first Grand Slam brought immense relief and joy. Jesper highlights the significant role of team spirit during preseason training in Bali. He reflects on the differences in playing styles between top players like Sinner and Alcaraz. The support from the Dutch Federation was crucial in shaping his early professional career. This podcast is sponsored by ASICS. ASICS is a Japanese company founded in 1949 to give more people the opportunity to experience how sports and movement can have a positive impact on mental well-being.To learn more about ASICS visit their website here: https://www.asics.com/nl/en-nl/sports/tennis/Find us on Social Media:Instagram: Instagram.com/FunctionalTennis

Czech tennis player Linda Noskova joins Fabio Molle to discuss her impressive rise in the WTA rankings, achieving a spot in the top 25 by maintaining a consistent mindset and dedication to continuous improvement. At just 20 years old, Linda reflects on her journey since winning the French Open junior title in 2021 and shares insights on the importance of playing junior tournaments as a foundation for success. She emphasizes the significance of having realistic goals and the long journey it takes to transition from juniors to the professional circuit. Linda also touches on the supportive Czech tennis landscape, which has historically produced many great players, and the confidence that comes from competing against familiar faces from her junior days. As she looks ahead to her goals for 2025, Linda expresses her excitement for the upcoming season in Australia, focusing on her passion for the sport rather than the pressure of defending points.Takeaways: Linda Noskova emphasizes the importance of consistency in achieving success in tennis. She believes that enjoying the competitive nature of tennis has driven her passion. Transitioning from junior to professional tennis requires significant mental and physical adaptation. Noskova highlights the historical influence of Czech tennis legends on current players' aspirations. She shares that her commitment to continuous improvement guides her training and competition. Being grounded and focusing on personal development rather than rankings shapes her approach. This podcast is sponsored by ASICS. ASICS is a Japanese company founded in 1949 to give more people the opportunity to experience how sports and movement can have a positive impact on mental well-being.To learn more about ASICS visit their website here: https://www.asics.com/nl/en-nl/sports/tennis/Find us on Social Media:Instagram: Instagram.com/FunctionalTennisTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@functionaltennis

Jaime Faria, a promising 21-year-old Portuguese tennis player, has made an impressive leap in his career, climbing from a rank of 411 to a career-high 116 this year. Despite not being the top junior in Portugal and facing tough competition, Jaime chose to remain with the Portuguese Tennis Federation rather than pursue college tennis in the U.S. His journey is marked by an incredible run that includes winning four Futures titles and two Challenger titles, showcasing his determination and talent. In our conversation, Jaime opens up about his rise through the rankings, the support he received from the federation, and his aspirations to break into the top 100. With a bright future ahead, Jaime's positive attitude and hard work are sure to inspire aspiring players everywhere.FabioThis podcast is sponsored by ASICS. ASICS is a Japanese company founded in 1949 to give more people the opportunity to experience how sports and movement can have a positive impact on mental well-being.To learn more about ASICS visit their website here: https://www.asics.com/nl/en-nl/sports/tennis/Find us on Social Media:Instagram: Instagram.com/FunctionalTennisTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@functionaltennis

Join me, Fabio Molle, as I share my top 13 favorite products for tennis players that make perfect gifts for the upcoming season. From rackets to shoes, grips to training aids, I've curated a list that caters to every tennis enthusiast, whether they are just starting or are seasoned players. One of the highlights of this episode is the Bablot Pure Aero, which has been voted our Racket of the Year for the second consecutive year, alongside the Wilson Blade as a close second. I also dive into my personal favourites from Asics shoes. Plus, I’ll touch on some essential gear like grips, tennis balls, and even tech products that can enhance your game. Tune in for some great recommendations that will surely delight any tennis lover!The productsWilson BladeBabolat Pure AeroFunctional Tennis SaberSolinco Hyper G (I forgot to mention these!!)ASICS Solution Speed FF3ASICS Court FF3 NovakWilson US Open BallDunlop ATP BallTecnifibre Endurance Duffel BagTecnifibre Endurance BackpackOura Ring (10% Off newest Ring)Whoop (30 day trial)Swing Vision (Free Gift)Let me know what else should be on this list!FabioThis podcast is sponsored by ASICS. ASICS is a Japanese company founded in 1949 to give more people the opportunity to experience how sports and movement can have a positive impact on mental well-being.To learn more about ASICS visit their website here: https://www.asics.com/nl/en-nl/sports/tennis/Find us on Social Media:Instagram: Instagram.com/FunctionalTennisTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@functionaltennis

What does it truly mean to "make it" as a tennis player? In this episode, I delve into this question with Belgian player Kimmer Coppejans, a former junior French Open champion who reached the top 100 for a brief period. Kimmer shares his journey through the highs and lows of professional tennis, including the mental challenges he faced, such as the yips and the struggle to regain confidence after injuries. He discusses the importance of consistency and the evolving landscape of the sport, where even players ranked outside the top 100 can pose serious threats. Additionally, Kimmer reflects on balancing life as a professional athlete with family responsibilities and the insights gained from participating in the ATP Player Mentoring Program, which aims to prepare players for life after tennis.FabioThis podcast is sponsored by ASICS. ASICS is a Japanese company founded in 1949 to give more people the opportunity to experience how sports and movement can have a positive impact on mental well-being.To learn more about ASICS visit their website here: https://www.asics.com/nl/en-nl/sports/tennis/Find us on Social Media:Instagram: Instagram.com/FunctionalTennisTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@functionaltennis

French tennis player Laurent Lokoli joins the Functional Tennis Podcast to share his journey through the highs and lows of professional tennis. He emphasizes the importance of focusing on individual game styles rather than just results, advising young players to stay true to their strengths. Throughout the conversation, Laurent discusses players' challenges on the circuit, including mental health and the pressures of consistency at different levels, from futures to the ATP tour. He reflects on his experiences qualifying for Grand Slams and the emotional rollercoaster that comes with the sport. As he looks ahead to his future, Laurent expresses a desire to help others and continue sharing his love for tennis through his YouTube channel.Hope you enjoyFabioThis podcast is sponsored by ASICS. ASICS is a Japanese company founded in 1949 to give more people the opportunity to experience how sports and movement can have a positive impact on mental well-being.To learn more about ASICS visit their website here: https://www.asics.com/nl/en-nl/sports/tennis/Find us on Social Media:Instagram: Instagram.com/FunctionalTennisTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@functionaltennis// Photo credit of Larent : Dumè Alfonsi

Jason Jung joins the Functional Tennis podcast to share his journey as a professional tennis player, including the challenges he faced with injuries and the decision to switch national representation to Taiwan. He discusses the financial and personal motivations behind this choice, highlighting how it opened doors for sponsorships and competitive opportunities. Jason candidly reflects on his struggles during a tough year in 2017, where he faced numerous first-round exits, and how a pivotal win at the University Games revitalized his career. The conversation also touches on the rigorous travel schedule of professional players and the mental toll it can take, especially toward the end of the season. As Jason prepares for fatherhood, he shares his thoughts on whether he would encourage his child to pursue tennis, balancing his expertise with the challenges of the sport.I chat with Jason Jung and we discuss, his ups and downs as a player, whether he would go back to college looking back on his career and why players are on edge late in the tennis season.This podcast is sponsored by ASICS. ASICS is a Japanese company founded in 1949 to give more people the opportunity to experience how sports and movement can have a positive impact on mental well-being.To learn more about ASICS visit their website here: https://www.asics.com/nl/en-nl/sports/tennis/Find us on Social Media:Instagram: Instagram.com/FunctionalTennisTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@functionaltennis

6-time grand slam coach Wim Fissette joins us on the Functional Tennis Podcast to chat about his coaching career. Wim set a high standard for himself winning 3 out of the first 6 slams he coached at.Wim worked with some of the best players in the past 15 years such as Kim Clijsters, Sabine Lisicki, Simona Halep, Victoria Azarenka, Johanna Konta, Angelique Kerber and recently finished working with Naomi Osaka. With Iga Swiatek recently finishing with her 3-year coach Tomasz Wiktorowski, is Wim the man to take the job.He tells us a bit about his coaching journey with each player, some anecdotes and learnings throughout his coaching career.Hope you enjoy it.FabioThis podcast is sponsored by ASICS. ASICS is a Japanese company founded in 1949 to give more people the opportunity to experience how sports and movement can have a positive impact on mental well-being.To learn more about ASICS visit their website here: https://www.asics.com/nl/en-nl/sports/tennis/Find us on Social Media:Instagram: Instagram.com/FunctionalTennisTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@functionaltennis

Today I speak to 23-year-old US College graduate Lulu Sun who has had an impressive run since graduating from the University Of Texas.In only 1 year of College Tennis, she rose to number 3 in the rankings and over the past 12 months on the WTA tour she has risen from no.210 to her current ranking of no.40.We chat about her early junior days, the importance of education and college tennis, why she switched nationality from Switzerland to New Zealand, her quailes to quarterfinals run at Wimbledon this year and her secrets to her rankings jump.Hope you enjoy and learnFabioThis podcast is sponsored by ASICS. ASICS is a Japanese company founded in 1949 to give more people the opportunity to experience how sports and movement can have a positive impact on mental well-being.To learn more about ASICS visit their website here: https://www.asics.com/nl/en-nl/sports/tennis/Find us on Social Media:Instagram: Instagram.com/FunctionalTennisTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@functionaltennis

Part 2 of the 2024 Functional Tennis Racket of the year breakdown with Jonas Eriksson (aka Tennisnerd). We chat about round 2 and 1/4's results as well as a semi final previewaJonas is one of the leading racket experts and puts out great reviews on his YouTube channel which you can see here.Head over to the Functional Tennis Instagram stories to get voting.Finally a shoutout to Tennis Warehouse Europe who are sponsoring this event along with the Shoe of the Year which will run in. a few weeks. You can get details on all the rackets over on the Tennis Warehouse Europe site here.Finally, we will run a giveaway with the prize of the winning racket, sign up here to enter.Enjoy the episodeFabioThis podcast is sponsored by ASICS. ASICS is a Japanese company founded in 1949 to give more people the opportunity to experience how sports and movement can have a positive impact on mental well-being.To learn more about ASICS visit their website here: https://www.asics.com/nl/en-nl/sports/tennis/Find us on Social Media:Instagram: Instagram.com/FunctionalTennisTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@functionaltennis

The racket of the year is back and Jonas Eriksson (aka Tennisnerd) jumps on to chat about results from round 1 and previews round 2.Jonas is one of the leading racket experts and puts out great reviews on his YouTube channel which you can see here.Head over to the Functional Tennis Instagram stories to get voting.Finally a shoutout to Tennis Warehouse Europe who are sponsoring this event along with the Shoe of the Year which will run in. a few weeks. You can get details on all the rackets over on the Tennis Warehouse Europe site here.Finally, we will run a giveaway with the prize of the winning racket, sign up here to enter.Enjoy the episodeFabioThis podcast is sponsored by ASICS. ASICS is a Japanese company founded in 1949 to give more people the opportunity to experience how sports and movement can have a positive impact on mental well-being.To learn more about ASICS visit their website here: https://www.asics.com/nl/en-nl/sports/tennis/Find us on Social Media:Instagram: Instagram.com/FunctionalTennisTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@functionaltennis

In episode 235 of the Functional Tennis Podcast, I sit down with Sandra Zaniewska, coach of WTA Top 20 player Marta Kostyuk. Sandra, a former pro herself with wins over the likes of Ons Jabeur and Ash Barty, transitioned into coaching at a young age and has since worked with top names like Petra Martic and Alizé Cornet.Sandra shares her journey from player to coach, her experiences leading the development of high-performance players at the Mouratoglou Tennis Academy, and her role with the Champ'Seed Foundation. We dive deep into the dynamics of coaching, exploring key themes like respect, communication, and trust. Plus, we tackle the big question: who’s really in charge—player or coach?I hope you enjoy this insightful conversation!FabioThis podcast is sponsored by ASICS. ASICS is a Japanese company founded in 1949 to give more people the opportunity to experience how sports and movement can have a positive impact on mental well-being.To learn more about ASICS visit their website here: https://www.asics.com/nl/en-nl/sports/tennis/Find us on Social Media:Instagram: Instagram.com/FunctionalTennisTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@functionaltennisAnd check out our famous Saber tennis training racket here

I chatted with pro doubles strategist Will Boucek. Will works with numerous ATP/WTA doubles pros, and USTA and helps amateurs improve their doubles.We chat about how Will got into doubles strategy and created a niche for himself, patterns he has noticed, analysing Carlos and Rafa as doubles players as well as tips and tactics for doubles players.Will also has a weekly newsletter and podcast where he shares doubles tips to help you improve your doubles and you can check it out here.Enjoy the episodeFabioThis podcast is sponsored by ASICS. ASICS is a Japanese company founded in 1949 to give more people the opportunity to experience how sports and movement can have a positive impact on mental well-being.To learn more about ASICS visit their website hereFind us on Social Media:Instagram: Instagram.com/FunctionalTennisTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@functionaltennis

Former top Junior and College Tennis player Govind Nanda joins me on the podcast.Govind has left University and is making a push back up the rankings where during his College days at UCLA he got to a high of 339 ATP which is impressive for a College tennis player. He chats about his early tennis days, the decision to play college tennis, training with Novak Djokovic and more.hope you enjoy and learnFabioThis podcast is sponsored by ASICS. ASICS is a Japanese company founded in 1949 to give more people the opportunity to experience how sports and movement can have a positive impact on mental well-beingTo learn more about ASICS visit their website here: https://www.asics.com/nl/en-nl/sports/tennis/Find us on Social Media:Instagram: Instagram.com/FunctionalTennisTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@functionaltennisYouTube: Functional Tennis Podcast

Today I chatted to Justin Van Malderen, 3rd generation in the Luxilon family business. Luxilon manufactures great strings used by many top pros.Justin tells us all about the Luxlilon beginnings, who owns the company, how strings are made, what % of the top pros use Luxilon and more.I hope you enjoy this episodeFabioThis podcast is sponsored by ASICS. ASICS is a Japanese company founded in 1949 to give more people the opportunity to experience how sports and movement can have a positive impact on mental well-being.To learn more about ASICS visit their website here: https://www.asics.com/nl/en-nl/sports/tennis/Find us on Social Media:Instagram: Instagram.com/FunctionalTennisTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@functionaltennisYouTube: Functional Tennis Podcast

I dug through the audio archives and found my chat with Wimbledon Finalist Jasmine Paolini when she was a top 70-ranked player only a few years ago. She talks about what's needed to be 1% better every day, patience, challenges along the way and the struggle to qualify for slams!! It’s a short but insightful partner.Hope you enjoyFabioThis podcast is sponsored by ASICS. ASICS is a Japanese company founded in 1949 to give more people the opportunity to experience how sports and movement can have a positive impact on mental well-being.To learn more about ASICS visit their website here: https://www.asics.com/nl/en-nl/sports/tennis/Find us on Social Media:Instagram: Instagram.com/FunctionalTennisTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@functionaltennisYouTube: Functional Tennis Podcast

I speak to Irish former pro Conor Niland who has just released a book called The Racket which documents his tennis journey from the first time he picked up a racket until retirement.Conor reached a career-high ATP 129 and made Grand Slam appearances. He recites many stories from all aspects of his journey from the junior Irish circuit, going to boarding school in the UK, missed opportunities at Bollettieri, College tennis at UCLA, turning pro, Davis Cup and more.It’s a great insight into how hard it is to become a tennis player and it leaves you with questions. I asked Conor some of the questions that entered my mind while reading the book.I hope you enjoy the episode.FabioThis podcast is sponsored by ASICS. ASICS is a Japanese company founded in 1949 to give more people the opportunity to experience how sports and movement can have a positive impact on mental well-being.To learn more about ASICS visit their website here: https://www.asics.com/nl/en-nl/sports/tennis/Find us on Social Media:Instagram: Instagram.com/FunctionalTennisTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@functionaltennisYouTube: Functional Tennis Podcast

Mini episode this week with current WTA number 63 Diane Parry.I met Diane at the Asics Rally for Your Mind event in central Paris. We discussed:Playing in Paris as ParisianHer 1 handed backhandAdvice for parents/playersThe best advice she has receivedLouis Rouach who runs event activations for Asics also tells us about the Rally for Your Mind event.FabioThis podcast is sponsored by ASICS. ASICS is a Japanese company founded in 1949 to give more people the opportunity to experience how sports and movement can have a positive impact on mental well-being.To learn more about ASICS visit their website here: https://www.asics.com/nl/en-nl/sports/tennis/Find us on Social Media:Instagram: Instagram.com/FunctionalTennisTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@functionaltennisYouTube: Functional Tennis Podcast