Ground Pass: A Tennis Podcast

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 Intro

04:06 Audience Q&A

07:39 WTA Finals Preview

36:38 Preview of the Paris Master...

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.

And Players of the Fortnight: Valentin Vacherot and Tereza Valentova.

Chapters:

00:00 Intro...

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 Intro

00:21 Coco Gauff's Journey to the Wuhan Final

05:53 Jessica Pagula's Gritty Path to the Final

10:46 The All-American Final: Gauff vs. Pagula

18:54 The Cousin Final: A Unique Tennis Story

36:33 Wrap-Up and Upcoming Events

Li...

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 Intro

01:59 Catching Up on Asian Tennis

17:30 Voice Note from Eddie of Tennis Asia

30:50 WTA Insights: Beijing Tournament Dynamics

55:25 Q&A Session...

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 listen...

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.

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 Et...

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...

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...

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.

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.

CHAPTERS

00:00 Introductio...

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...

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:

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 – Intro

2:48 – Calm after the storm

4:05 – Taylor Townsend v Barbora Krejčíková

14:28 – US Open or Czech Open

20:20 – Naomi Osaka

26:14 – Coco Gauff

31:01 – Felix Auger-Aliassime

38:07 – Jannik Sinner...

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=Hx8UvG5i62

Also We have Merch!!!

Links:

Taylor Townsends Press Conference - http...

Its the start of the middle weekend at the US Open and the grounds are littered with doubles. Doubles here there and everywhere. If you are trying to navigate the teams and who to follow we got you covered.

From favorites Taylor Townsend and Katerina Siniakova to sleepers like Panova/Guo. And even the Legend Venus Williams is in the mix.

On the mens side is a very British affair with Salisbury/Skupski trying to make a run and even THE MARCUS WILLIS is in the draw.

Anastasia is joined...

Alex Eala rise like a phoenix, Daniil Medvedev crashes and burns, Venus Williams' reminds us of her greatness and Carlos Alcaraz cuts his hair. These are the Match Stories that caught our attention in round 1 of the US Open

Chapters

00:00 - Intro

00:17 - Alex Eala

07:46 - Daniil Medvedev

16:59 - Venus Williams

20:14 - Coco Gauff

23:45 - Gael Monfils

25:27 - Carlos Alcaraz

27:00 - Outro

WE HAVE MERCH!!!

Shop now for the Founder's Discount till August 30th...

On this episode of Ground Pass, Anastasia is joined by Eugene and Lucy from Black Spin Global to break down Serena Williams’ surprise appearance at Maria Sharapova’s Hall of Fame induction. The conversation dives into the history and growth of the Black Spin Global platform, and the players of color to keep an eye on at this year’s US Open.

At Ground Pass, we love shining a light on the people in the tennis media space doing great work—and Eugene and Lucy are two of the very best.

✨ Find Black Spin Global he...

When you do something twice, it becomes a tradition… right? Right?!

We’re back on the grounds of the US Open for our 2nd annual preview episode with Coach B — Brian Bradley. He may live in Los Angeles, but as a born-and-raised New Yorker, the Open is always a homecoming.

Anastasia and Coach B chat about:

If you tuned in last year, you know how mu...

The summer swing is heating up—literally. Anastasia recaps the finals of the Cincinnati Open, where Iga Swiatek battled Jasmine Paolini for the women’s title and Jannik Sinner faced off against Carlos Alcaraz in yet another chapter of their growing rivalry.

But this episode isn’t just about the scorelines. Anastasia dives into the best and worst moments from a week that had it all:

Recorded from the grounds of the Cincinnati Open, this mini pod recaps the action from Canada and the first few days in Cincy. We celebrate Ben Shelton and Victoria Mboko’s big wins, Naomi Osaka’s impressive run, and two standout doubles finals in Montreal and Toronto. Plus, we share updates from the Cincinnati Open so far, including press conference moments with Coco Gauff and Maria Sakkari.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on Ground Pass, Anastasia and Nick are back with a full-length episode packed with tennis storylines from the Canadian Open and a preview of what’s ahead in Cincinnati. We break down Naomi Osaka’s new coaching setup, Amanda Anisimova’s bounce-back, and why Victoria Mboko’s win over Coco Gauff was absolute cinema. Plus, a big rant on why Alexei Popyrin’s 2024 Canada title deserves more respect, doubles teams you should be watching, and a lot of dispatch updates ahead of our on-site coverage at the Cincinnati Open. Also, the US Open has… a dating show?? We’ve got tho...

Washington Post sports writer Ava Wallace joins Anastasia from Ground Pass to unpack the 2025 Citi Open. From Venus Williams’ joyful return to the pro tennis tour, to Leylah Fernandez’s run to the final, to a finals lineup nobody predicted — this is a full, unfiltered recap of one of the most vibrant tournaments on the U.S. summer swing.

Topics include:

– Venus’ comeback and her impact on the sport

– The challenge of playing at home for Hailey Baptiste & Frances Tiafoe

– Why the Citi Open crowds are the best in tennis

– A close...

In this solo mini pod, Nick recaps the week in tennis while Anastasia is on-site at the Citi Open. We break down the winners across ATP and WTA clay events, including Shapovalov’s hard-court return in Los Cabos. Plus, we dive into important injury news from Ons Jabeur and Zheng Qinwen, and look ahead to what’s shaping up to be an electric week in Washington DC. Expect doubles drama, wild card legends, and a stacked women’s field.

CHAPTERS

00:00 Weekly Tennis Update: Highlights and Events

02:54 ATP Updates

06:13 WTA Updates

0...

We’re back with our full Wimbledon 2025 recap! Iga Swiatek drops a double bagel in the women’s final, Jannik Sinner wins his first Slam—and the new era of tennis is officially here. We unpack both finals, the best and worst moments from the tournament, and why this felt like a true generational handoff. Plus, we take you inside the Newport Open, talk about Bill Ackman’s infamous doubles wildcard, and preview the absolutely stacked Citi Open. Our Players of the Fortnight: Caty McNally and Eliot Spizzirri. Let’s go.

🎥 More from this episode:

➤ Meet the...

We’re down to the final four—now two! Anastasia and Nick recap the Wimbledon 2025 semifinals and preview a finals weekend filled with storyline-rich matchups: Amanda Anisimova’s comeback arc continues after her stunner against Aryna Sabalenka, while Iga Swiatek dismantles Belinda Bencic with the kind of form that wins majors.

On the men’s side, Carlos Alcaraz squeezes past Taylor Fritz, and Jannik Sinner breezes past an injured Novak Djokovic in a match that felt like watching Novak 2.0 take over the baton. We also break down a wild doubles semifinal (shoutout to Hijikata & Pèll!), toast to...

Wimbledon Round 4 delivered high drama—and heartbreak. In this episode, Anastasia and Nick unpack a brutal day of tennis headlined by Grigor Dimitrov’s devastating injury while leading Jannik Sinner. They also dive into standout performances from Mirra Andreeva, Iga Swiatek, and Ben Shelton, the rise of Flavio Cobolli, and the unexpected power of listening to matches on the radio. Plus, a quick dispatch from the Hall of Fame Open in Newport and the latest on electronic line calling drama. Sports is cruel—but we’re still watching.

Chapters

00:00 Intro

01:42 Round 4 wrap up Duration: 00:35:30

NOTE: Said Aryna was the only player left in the top 11 but meant in her section of the draw not the whole tournament. She is the only player left in the top ten in the top half of the draw. 

The seeds keep falling, the storylines keep building, and Ground Pass is here to break it all down. Anastasia is joined by tennis broadcaster Mitch Michals to unpack Round 3 of Wimbledon 2025—including the end of Barbora Krejcikova’s title defense, Emma Raducanu’s battle with Aryna Sabalenka, and the rising tide of British players led by Sonay Kar...

Here’s to all the seeds we lost in Round 2. Wimbledon 2025 is fully in its unpredictable era, and Ground Pass is here for every twist.

In this episode, Anastasia recaps the standout moments from Day 3 and Round 2—including big breakthroughs, major exits, and a little tennis history in the making.

Highlights include:

The grass is not greener for the seeds this year.

In this episode of Ground Pass, Anastasia is joined by special guest Ian Modul of 40 Love Tennis to break down a first round full of upsets, breakthroughs, and style moments at Wimbledon 2025. With Nick on-site in London, he shares his take via voice note at the end of the show—but in the meantime, Anastasia and Ian cover all the early drama from SW19.

We get into:

We’re previewing Wimbledon 2025! Anastasia and Nick break down the draws, highlight the must-watch first-round matchups (yes, we see you Kenin vs. Townsend), and debate which qualifiers could shake things up. We talk seedings, surface matchups, sneaky threats in both draws, and the matches we’re most hyped to see. Plus: how to watch Wimbledon in your country, the return of Ground Pass screenings in Brooklyn, and a nod to the best doubles matchup of the tournament.

Whether you’re new to tennis or a longtime fan, this episode sets the tone for a spectacular Wimbledon.

Grass season doesn’t wait for anyone. Anastasia and Nick break down the biggest results from the past two weeks — including titles for Marketa Vondrousova, Alexander Bublik, and Carlos Alcaraz — and why the transition from clay to grass is one of the most unpredictable stretches on tour. They also dive into Wimbledon qualifying, the rise of McCartney Kessler, and the soon-to-be-iconic US Open Mixed Doubles Championship entry list (yes, Alcaraz & Raducanu). Plus: a special interview with Citi Open chairman Mark Ein on what makes DC one of the best tournaments of the summer.

Links:

It’s been a chill week post-Roland Garros, and we’re taking it easy with a mini Ground Pass catch-up. We talk:

– The return of women’s tennis to Queen’s Club for the first time in 50 years

– Emma Raducanu, Qinwen Zheng, and McCartney Kessler making moves

– Tatjana Maria’s wild run from qualies to champion

– Coco Gauff’s NYC media tour and Sloane Stephens’ iconic RG looks

– Taylor Fritz continues his domination over Zverev

– Updates from Ilkley and Berlin, plus a voice memo from Kvittycat

Short and sweet...

We’re still processing.

In our Roland Garros 2025 finale recap, Anastasia and Nick reflect on an unforgettable weekend of tennis. From Carlos Alcaraz’s 5-set thriller against Jannik Sinner to Coco Gauff’s second Slam title, we talk through every twist, stat, and sprint to a bar screen.

💥 Was Sinner vs Alcaraz the greatest match ever?

💬 Did Aryna Sabalenka’s post-match comments go too far?

🎥 Why TNT’s U.S. debut in Grand Slam coverage actually worked

👀 Players of the Fortnight: Lois Boisson and Colton Smith

🎾 Plus: Explaining un...

As Roland Garros wraps up, Anastasia calls in Lucy and Eugene from Black Spin Global for a bonus episode full of tips, tea, and truths about the grass court season. From what to expect at Queen’s Club (hint: posh vibes and pricey drinks) to why Eastbourne might actually be a hidden gem, this episode is a must-listen if you’re thinking of attending any UK tournaments this summer. Plus, they break down the Roland Garros quarterfinals—including the drama around Musetti and the fairytale run of Lois Boisson.

💬 Don’t forget to give us 5 stars and drop us...

Round 4 at Roland Garros 2025 gave us everything: a fairytale wild card run, a clay-court classic, and a few surprise quarterfinalists.

Anastasia and Nick dive into Lois Boisson’s stunning upset of Jessica Pegula and why she’s now the name on everyone’s lips in Paris. We break down Mirra Andreeva’s win over her friend Daria Kasatkina, Iga Świątek’s revealing press conference after surviving Elena Rybakina, and what Sasha Bublik’s tears tell us about his growth as a player.

Also in this episode:

– Why Tiafoe’s in US Open mode

Ground Pass went live in Brooklyn for a special crossover event with The Rennae Stubbs Tennis Podcast and Caitlin Thompson of Racquet magazine to break down Week 1 of Roland Garros 2025.

From early upsets to the rise of American players, and whether there’s just too much tennis, we covered it all—with a crowd, coffee, and some hot takes.

🎾 Topics include:

– The biggest surprises so far at RG

– TNT’s new coverage and what it means for casual fans

– A live audience Q&A

– And a few strong opinions...

Round 3 brought us drama, injuries, breakthroughs—and short shorts. Anastasia and Nick dive into the biggest stories from Roland Garros, including Arthur Fils’ heartbreaking withdrawal, Jack Draper’s top-5 energy, and Hailey Baptiste and Ethan Quinn continuing their rise. Plus: the Iga-Rybakina clash looms, Musetti vs Rune promises vibes and tension, and we gear up for grass season (yes, already). Also: a preview of Ground Pass’s first live podcast event with The Rennae Stubbs Tennis Podcast.

🎾 Matches discussed:

– Svitolina vs Pera

– Alcaraz vs Dzumhur

– Draper vs Fonseca

– Sabalenka vs Anisimov...

Our favorite tradition is back — the Ground Pass Grand Slam Fashion Roundup — and Roland Garros is serving looks. Anastasia is joined by special guest Kaya (@kayacourtside), the tennis style expert taking over TikTok and Instagram, to break down all the kits from Round 2.

We get into:

🎾 Which brands nailed it (Wilson, we see you)

👟 Custom kicks and collabs we want more of

🧢 Why Nike’s men’s kits had us yelling “Hamburglar”

🔥 The rise of tennis as a lifestyle and fashion sport

🚨 Plus, the best on-court storylines heading into Round...

Round 1 of Roland Garros 2025 delivered—and we’re breaking it all down.

From Gael Monfils lighting up Chatrier to a wave of early upsets (Fritz! Cerundolo! Navarro!), Anastasia and Nick cover the most surprising results, wildest crowd moments, and best performances of the opening round.

They also dive into:

• Medvedev’s mid-match string change

• Hailey Baptiste’s biggest win to date

• Ethan Quinn’s unexpected advancement

• The rise of Victoria Mboko and Alex Eala’s doubles run

• Iga Swiatek’s statement start

Plus, they reveal...

Our first-ever live episode—recorded in real time as Roland Garros Day 1 unfolded—and wow, there was a lot to talk about.

Anastasia and Nick break down:

Plus, we each pick one must-watch match for Day 2—yes, Naomi Osaka vs. Paula Badosa made the cut...

It’s Grand Slam time! 🎾

Anastasia is joined by guest co-host Mitch Michals (Inside-In Podcast) for a full Roland Garros 2025 draw breakdown. They kick things off by explaining what a tennis draw is, how seeding works, and why wildcards cause drama every year—before diving into the first-round matchups that caught their eye. Osaka vs. Badosa, Sinner vs. Rinderknech, Baptiste vs. Haddad Maia, and more. Plus, they predict some spicy possible 4th round showdowns (Sinner vs. Fils, Musetti vs. Rune), share why the French crowd is a vibe, and ask: will we finally get that Sincaraz final?

👉...

The 2025 Rome Open had it all—career-defining wins, surprise storylines, and a whole lot of clay. In this Ground Pass mini pod, we break down Jasmine Paolini’s stunning singles and doubles sweep, Jannik Sinner’s return after suspension, and Coco Gauff’s ongoing stat struggles. Plus: why the men’s vs. women’s tennis debate needs to stop, who’s trending ahead of Roland Garros, and the vibes from one of the best stops on tour.

Chapters

00:00 - Intro

3:30 - WTA Storylines: Jasmine Paolini, Coco Gauff, Qinwen and more

12:50 - Italian Tenn...

This week on Ground Pass, we’re catching up on all things clay season and diving into the beautiful chaos that is the Rome Open. But first, we recap the wild scenes from Madrid—including a super-detailed voice memo from Ramiro at @courtsatisfaction breaking down everything from seating to surprise side events.

⏱️ In This Episode:

0:00 – Kicking off + the Ground Pass update

2:50 – Madrid wrap + listener voice memo

17:00 – Rome is stunning: travel vibes + stadium drama

28:00 – Darth Sinner + Alcaraz’s tennis puppy energy

32:40 – No Djokovic in Rome—what’s going on?

38:00 –...

What if you could restart your tennis career—with a camera in one hand and a racquet in the other?

In this episode of Meet the Professionals, Anastasia and Nick sit down with Karue Sell, who has lived every version of tennis: a top junior in Brazil, NCAA standout at UCLA, coach on the ATP tour, hitting partner for Naomi Osaka, YouTuber behind MyTennisHQ, and now… a 30-year-old chasing ATP points again.

We talk about:

Anastasia and Nick are back with a full episode, and it’s a packed one!

They kick off with a spoiler-free discussion of the new Carlos Alcaraz documentary on Netflix, sharing thoughts on Carlos’ mindset, why it’s refreshing to see athletes prioritize happiness, and a few can’t-miss moments (including a sweet encounter with Roger Federer!).

Then it’s onto the latest tennis news:

This week, it’s just Anastasia on the mic for a quick solo catch-up on everything that’s gone down on the tour.

We’re talking:

•Ben Shelton making American clay-court history 🧱🇺🇸

•Jelena Ostapenko continuing her mental hold over Iga Swiatek 😳

•Carlos Alcaraz reaching back-to-back finals… but it’s Holger Rune who steals the show in Barcelona 🏆

•And yes—Alexander Zverev might just have his mojo back after winning Munich 👀

It’s a short, sharp dose of stories, energy, and opinion—everything you need to stay in the loop this week.

Rele...

In this episode, Anastasia and Nick catch up on all the latest from the tennis world—from the red clay of Monte Carlo to the team spirit of the Billie Jean King Cup.

They break down Team USA’s surprising BJK Cup performance, share highlights from Anastasia time at the Charleston Open, and unpack the energy (and drama) of Monte Carlo. Expect a closer look at standout players like Alejandro Davidovich Fokina, recent coaching shake-ups, and rising American names like Hailey Baptiste and Bernarda Pera.

It’s a mix of insights, on-the-ground reflections, and ev...

Welcome to another episode of Meet the Professionals, our monthly series spotlighting the people who make the tennis world go ’round. This time, Anastasia & Nick sit down with rising tennis commentator Abigail Johnson for an inspiring and insightful conversation.

From her early tennis obsessions to carving out a space for herself in the world of sports commentary, Abigail shares how passion, preparation, and persistence shaped her journey. They dive into everything from the art of on-air storytelling to the realities of traveling on the tennis tour, building relationships with players, and making space for young voices in...

Thats right Ground Pass went viral on TikTok because of the popularity of the Alex Eala run at the Miami Open. Let’s talk about it.

In this episode, Nick and Anastasia discuss the Miami Open, its unique atmosphere, and the ongoing challenges of scheduling due to rain delays. They compare the Miami Open to Indian Wells, highlighting the differences in appeal and experience for fans. The conversation shifts to emerging talents like Jakub Mensik and Alex Eala, who are making waves in the tennis world. They also touch on the dominance of Aryna Sabalenka and Em...

Ground Pass was accredited for its first 1000 Level event. Which is a big deal. Thanks for following us on this adventure in this episode of the podcast we dissuss the main differences between Indian Wells and the Miami Open. 

We also touch on the tennis for the first week which saw all the ATP Indian Wells semi finalists lose their first matches - Carlos Alcaraz, Jack Draper, Holger Rune & Daniil Medvedev all had early exits.

The almost love story of Alex Eala and Coleman Wong gave us life.

Emma Raducanu ge...

Indian Wells is done and dusted for 2025 and what an experience it was, Anastasia joins Nick to talk through the 2nd week of the event and the semifinal groups. We also touch in the Arizona Challenger which is a must visit for next year.

Relevant Links:

Chapters

00:00 Welcome to the Groundpass: A Professional Peak

03:43 The problem with the 2nd week of Indian Wells

We’re wrapping up our time at Tennis Paradise! Recorded on-site at Indian Wells, this episode of Ground Pass On-Site is all about what it’s really like to experience the BNP Paribas Open from the grounds. We break down the best (and worst) parts of being at the tournament, share tips and tricks for anyone planning to attend next year, and try to define what makes Indian Wells Tennis Paradise. Plus, we’re joined by special guests Will Boucek, Vansh, and Brian Bradley for their insights and takeaways from the tournament. Don’t miss this mid-way look at Indian W...

In this episode of Meet the Professionals, host Anastasia interviews Calvin Betton, a successful tennis coach who has guided his players, Henry Patten and Harri Heliovarra to Grand Slam victories. Calvin shares his journey from aspiring tennis player to becoming a head coach in tennis. He discusses the importance of realism in coaching, the emotional highs and lows of the sport, and the evolving role of coaches in tennis. Calvin emphasizes the need for strong relationships with players, the significance of grassroots coaching, and offers valuable advice for aspiring coaches. The conversation also touches on the challenges of promoting...

We are back with a little bonus this week - All the tennis stories we wanted to talk about couldn’t fit into one episode so here is a little bonus pod for you. 

We discuss it all and also that Medvedovic v Tsitsipas match 🤯

Relevant Links:

The US Spring swing continues this week with the Austin Open, a WTA 250, but it’s all leading to the tentpole events of this period - The SunShine Double. Indian Wells and Miami Open are the highlights of US Spring Tennis season. Steeped in history and prestige its as close to the hype you will get in the US tennis calendar outside of the US Open. Indian Wells especially has over the years earned the moniker of The Fifth Grand Slam, in this episode we preview both tournaments and give you our guide to the events. When to go, wh...

Anastasia is back from the Delray Beach Open and catching up with Nick about the trip, plus all the big stories from the past week in tennis!

In This Episode:

Welcome to the first Ground Pass On-Site episode of 2025! We’re kicking things off at the Delray Beach Open, bringing you an exclusive look at the action straight from the grounds.

In this episode, we cover:

✅ First impressions from the tournament 🌴

✅ An interview with The Bryan Brothers - Bob and Mike Bryan - about Davis Cup and the state of Doubles 🎾

✅ Behind-the-scenes observations and fan experience insights 👀

✅ What to watch for on Day 2 🔥

If you’re at Delray, let us know! And if you’re following from home, we’ve...

In this episode of Ground Pass, hosts Anastasia and Nick welcome Blair Henley, a prominent figure in tennis media. They discuss Blair's journey from aspiring tennis player to media professional, her experiences in on-court hosting, and the importance of connecting casual fans with the sport. The conversation touches on the challenges of balancing a career in tennis media with family life, the significance of smaller tournaments, and the evolving landscape of tennis, including the impact of pickleball. Blair shares insights on emerging talents in the sport and offers advice for those looking to break into tennis media.

In this episode, Nick and Anastasia provide a comprehensive wrap-up of the Australian Open, discussing the champions, memorable matches, and the overall tournament experience. They delve into the contrasting narratives of the men's and women's tournaments, highlighting the impact of players like Novak Djokovic and the triumph of Madison Keys & Jannik Sinner. The conversation also touches on the accessibility of the tournament in Melbourne and the excitement surrounding the next generation of tennis players. As they look ahead, they share insights on upcoming tournaments and whats coming up next on Ground Pass.

Chapters<...

In this episode of the Ground Pass podcast, host Anastasia welcomes back Will from Tennis Tribe to discuss the Australian Open, focusing on the doubles tournament. They explore the unique experiences of attending the tournament in Melbourne, the exciting new partnerships forming in doubles, and the standout performances of various teams. The conversation also delves into the state of doubles tennis, discussing the need for better promotion and awareness of the sport, especially during major tournaments. As they wrap up, they reflect on the future of doubles and the importance of recognizing the players' personalities and skills.

In this engaging conversation, Anastasia and Mitch Michals discuss the ongoing Australian Open, covering everything from the challenges of following matches across time zones to the evolution of American tennis. They preview the women's and men's semifinals, analyze key players like Aryna Sabalenka, Iga Swiatek, and Novak Djokovic, and delve into the dynamics of coaching in tennis. The discussion also highlights memorable moments from the tournament, showcasing the excitement and unpredictability of the sport.

Chapters

00:00 Coffee and Tennis: A Casual Introduction

02:57 Navigating Time Zones and Match Schedules

05:44 The Impact...

On this episode of *Ground Pass*, Anastasia Folorunso and Nick Carter dive into all the excitement of the Australian Open. They share their struggles of keeping up with the matches while battling those tricky time zone differences (relatable, right?). From the rise of young tennis stars to the matches that have left a lasting impression so far, they cover it all. Plus, they look ahead to what’s shaping up to be an unforgettable second week. Join the conversation as they celebrate the next generation of players and why their journeys are so inspiring to follow!

Ch...

In this episode, Ian Mondul and Anastasia Folorunso discuss the latest trends in tennis fashion at the Australian Open. They explore the offerings from major brands like Nike, Wilson, Adidas, New Balance, and more, evaluating their designs, colors, and overall impact on the sport's fashion landscape. The conversation also highlights standout players like Coco Gauff and the significance of brand signings in shaping tennis fashion. In this conversation we delve into the world of tennis fashion, analyzing the apparel choices of various brands and players during the Australian Open. They discuss the trends, misses, and hits in tennis fashion...

In this engaging conversation, Anastasia and tennis insider Craig Shapiro delve into the highlights of day two at the Australian Open, discussing match performances, player insights, and the vibrant atmosphere of the tournament. They explore the challenges faced by players like Novak Djokovic and Naomi Osaka, while also touching on the significance of tennis fashion and sponsorships in the sport. The discussion provides a unique insider perspective on the tournament, making it a must-listen for tennis fans.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction

10:23 Exploring the Australian Open Venue and Atmosphere

15:33 In-Depth Match Review...

In this episode of Ground Pass, hosts Nick Carter and Anastasia Folorunso dive into the excitement of the Australian Open, discussing the first day's events, including rain delays, match highlights, and the historic win of Hady Habib. They explore the new on-court coaching innovations, reflect on veteran players like Kei Nishikori and Gael Monfils, and preview the packed schedule for Day Two. The hosts emphasize the importance of planning for Grand Slam matches and encourage listeners to engage with their social media for updates and insights throughout the tournament.

Chapters

00:00...

Anastasia is joined by Tony Wright, a coaching pro and podcaster from California, for an engaging conversation, discussing the intricacies of the Australian Open, including the draw process, seeding, and the impact of current events on the tournament. They share insights on key matches to watch, strategies for attending tournaments, and how to effectively follow the action from home. The episode emphasizes the importance of planning ahead for tournaments like this and fan engagement in the world of tennis.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background of Tony Wright

02:48 Current Events: California Fires and...

In this episode, Anastasia and Nick celebrate the New Year and discuss the upcoming Australian Open, reflecting on the United Cup and its significance in the tennis calendar. 

We then jump into our Australian Open preview with the help of tennis content creator Jess Adjua. Just is a resident of Sydney, Australia and has been attending the Australian Open in Melbourne for years. She gives us her tips and tricks and what to look forward to at the tournament.

Chapters

00:00 New Year, New Tennis Season

01:56 Intro

03:45 U...

So you watched the movie, but what do you know about the Real Challengers? 

The movie Challengers took over the spring of 2024 and brought in some new fans interested in the sport of Tennis. But what are the REAL CHALLENGERS? Ground Pass went to the last challenger of the year in Champaign, IL to find out. 

We spoke to players like Rajeev Ram, Ethan Quinn and Evan King about their experiences on the Challenger Tour

Watch the short doc on our YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@GroundPass

NOTE: This episode was recorded on Nov 30th. Since then Jack Draper, Diane Parry and Qinwen Zheng have withdrawn from the tournament.

Welcome to the new tennis season! We are excited to chat with you about the upcoming United Cup and its exciting format that brings together men’s and women’s tennis. We delve into the team event, the players’ interactions, and the thrill of mixed doubles. We’ll also talk about the players in the field - Iga Swiatek, Hubi Hurkacz, Maria Sakkari, Katie Boulter & Alex De Minaur and some memorable moments from past tourname...

It’s time to find out who’s next. Arthur Fils, Jakub Mensik, Learner Tien, Joao Fonseca, Alex Michelsen, Shang Juncheng, Luca Van Assche and Nishesh Basavareddy will all be vying for the chance to win the title of Next Gen this week in Jeddah. This is one of Anastasia’s favorite tournaments and she talks about what is great about it and why its such an important tournament. 

But what about the WTA? Well that’s where Nick puts together the potential top 8 women who would take part if there was a WTA version of this tour...

A couple of exhibitions filled the void of competitive tennis in the US over the off season last week. Carlos Alcaraz, Ben Shelton, Frances Tiafoe, Jessica Pegula, Emma Navarro, Madison Keys & Sloane Stephens entertained sold out crowds in Madison Square Garden, New York, NY and Charlotte, NC.

What are tennis exhibitions and our thoughts on the genre; Anastasia breaks it down.

Mentioned on the Podcast:

YouTube Link to this Podcast Episode: https://youtu.be/GIpJ2i_wpo4 

Served Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/servedpodcast?igsh=eHk1Z3p...

It’s time to pick our favorite moments from the 2024 season. Join Nick and Anastasia as they go through their favorite moments and what they are looking forward to in 2025. 

When you are done, share yours with us. Link below to a form you can fill.

Mentioned on the Podcast:

Nick’s Wimbledon Ticket Guide: https://www.groundpasspodcast.com/blog/znfq0dmuw8v0f1b7gqqos44a5uuikg 

Nick picking Rebecca Sramkova: https://www.instagram.com/reel/C7aZMkAgeX2/?igsh=MTV2cnJvOW52d2gybg==

Form for Ground...

It was revealed on Thursday, November 28th that Iga Swiatek failed a doping test in August and was subsequently cleared of all wrong down. The reaction was fast and swift. We took our time here at Ground Pass to respond but here is ours. We can all be better fans.

Mentioned on the Podcast:

In this episode of Ground Pass things get a little loopy, haha. We are definitely settling into the off season vibes.

We try to keep the conversation on the rails though as we wrap up the tennis at Billie Jean King Cup and Davis Cup where Italy did the double lead by Jasmine Paolini and Jannik Sinner.

We also give a quick preview of what we have coming to you this off season. There might be no tennis but there will still be Ground Pass.

Mentioned on...

In this episode of Ground Pass, hosts Anastasia and Nick discuss a busy week in tennis, including the Billie Jean King Cup finals, Team USA & GB’s performance, and the ATP Finals. 

We also get a guest voice memo from Kvittycat53 on Bluesky.social, who attended the Billie Jean King Cup tournament in Malaga and gives us some great insights to the tournament.

Anastasia also shares insights from her experiences at a Challenger event and look ahead to upcoming tournaments, emphasizing the importance of supporting lower-tier events and discovering new talent.

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In this episode, Anastasia and Nick discuss the recent WTA Finals held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, highlighting the venue, fan support, and key player performances. They reflect on the thrilling final match between Coco Gauff and Zheng Qinwen, emphasizing the significance of the event for the players and the tour. The conversation transitions to previewing the upcoming ATP Finals, discussing the top players and the tournament's location. In this episode, the hosts discuss the accessibility of tennis viewing options, particularly focusing on the ATP Finals and the recent changes in subscription models for Tennis Channel. They preview the ATP...

The WTA Finals are here. 

In this episode, Anastasia provides a comprehensive preview of the WTA Finals, discussing the significance of the tournament, the top eight players competing, and their seasons leading up to this event. The conversation covers the history of the WTA Finals, the current location in Riyadh, and the unique format of the tournament. Listeners gain insights into each player's performance, challenges, and potential for success in the finals.

What are the WTA Finals, Where is it being played, Who is participating?

We answer all those questions i...

A ramble episode discussing our favorite stories from this week in Tennis

Mentioned on the Podcast:

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In this episode of the Ground Pass Podcast, Anastasia discusses the latest happenings in the world of tennis, focusing on the importance of player stories and comebacks. She highlights the remarkable recovery of Paula Badosa and the unexpected return of Danielle Collins. The conversation also covers the Six Kings Slam exhibition event, player retirements, and the upcoming tournaments in the ATP and WTA tours, emphasizing the excitement and potential of the players as the season comes to a close.

Mentioned on the Podcast:

The dream team is back together! Anastasia and Nick reunite to discuss the recent retirement announcement of tennis legend Rafa Nadal. We reflect on his illustrious career, memorable matches, and the emotional impact of his departure from professional tennis. Then we catch up on Wuhan, highlighting the intriguing rivalry between Aryna Sabalenka and Coco Gauff. We discuss the importance of context in understanding player performance beyond rankings, the journey of Qinwen towards the WTA finals. We hit on Novak Djokovic's return, umpire conflicts in matches in Shanghai, and the significant shift at Wimbledon towards electronic line calling.

In this episode, Nick discusses the recent tennis tournaments in Beijing and Tokyo, highlighting the performances of players like Alcaraz, Sinner, Gauff, and Muchova. He reflects on the challenges of following tennis due to time zone differences and emphasizes the importance of coaching in the sport. The episode also marks the one-year anniversary of the Grand Pass podcast, celebrating the community of tennis fans that has formed around it.

Mentioned on the Podcast:

In this episode of Groundpass, Anastasia discusses the ongoing Asian swing in tennis, highlighting key tournaments in Beijing and Tokyo, and the significance of this part of the season for players. She delves into the importance of breaking into the top 100 rankings, the recent performances of players like Yunchaokete Bu and Arthur Fils, and the impact of coaching changes, particularly for Naomi Osaka. The conversation also covers the Laver Cup, its format, and player perspectives on exhibition events, before wrapping up with insights on upcoming tournaments and player returns.

Mentioned on the Podcast:<...

This week the conversation explores the current state of tennis in Asia, focusing on the Asian swing of tournaments, the challenges of viewing tennis across different time zones, and the rise of local players. Eddie, known as Tennis Asia, shares insights on marquee tournaments, the popularity of tennis in the region, and the experiences of attending these events. The discussion also highlights the importance of local players in boosting tennis's popularity and the upcoming tournaments that fans can look forward to. 

Mentioned on the Podcast:

Tennis Asia on X - ht...

On this episode of Ground Pass we throw it back to the US Open. On Labor Day Monday, Anastasia was joined by Will Boucek to talk doubles.

During the 2nd weeks of a slam, most of the outside courts are taken over by doubles which are accessible to ground pass ticket holders.

Anastasia and Will catch up on the doubles tournament at the time of recording and Will updates us on the impact of the experimental changes that have come to the doubles game this year.

Watch the video version...

The last Grand Slam of the year is over and we have our champions. We have a repeat of the Australian Open champions and the Cincinnati champions and arguably our new hardcourt King and Queen.

Anastasia and Nick review the final grand slam of the year. What it was like to attend and watch on tv and what the rest of the season holds.

Mentioned on the Podcast:

Amazon TV Show about Juniors road to the Orange Bowl - Top Class Tennis - https://www.amazon.com/Uninterrupteds-Top-Class-Tennis-Season/dp/B0D...

Anastasia is joined by Ian of Forty Love to talk about the week that was at the US Open and what to expect from week 2.

They discuss what the grounds have been like in the first week, What the tennis has been like over the first few days of the slam, and a look ahead to the 2nd week of the US Open.

We of course could not end this podcast conversation without talking about the fashion at the Open. Which were our favourite kits and which didn’t quite hit the mark?

Fan week brought all the good vibes but it’s time to get down to business.

Nick and Anastasia recap the week that was and go through the schedule of the first 2 days of the US Open. Its going to be blockbuster.

Mentioned on the Podcast:

US Open Fan Week Website - https://www.usopen.org/en_US/about/us_open_fan_week.html

US Open Schedule - https://www.usopen.org/en_US/scores/schedule/schedule8.html

Visit Our We...

Its the last Slam of the year and Ground Pass is On Site for the US Open.

Anastasia is joined on site by Coach B - Brian Bradley, a return guest on the pod.

They discuss the qualifying tournament and what it means to the players participating.

There is still 3 more days left of Fan Week. if you are in the area get yourself over to Flushing Meadows

Mentioned on the Podcast:

Coach B on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/coachbtv?igsh=bmVsN216...

Anastasia and Nick discuss Anastasia's recent trip to the Cincinnati Open and the upcoming US Open. They reflect on the origins of the Groundpass podcast and the importance of watching tennis live. Then we breakdown the US Open and how to plan a day during the free Fan Week, which includes qualifying matches and player practices. During the second part of the conversation, Anastasia and Nick discuss the US Open tournament as a whole and provide tips and insights for attending.

Mentioned on the Podcast:

Served Podcast Live from Cincinnati...

Anastasia is joined by Mitch Michals from the Tennis Channel Inside-in podcast.

Ground Pass is On Site and the Cincinnati Open, we preview the event, give a quick guide to the tournament and talk about who is in and who is out: Novak Djokovic, Carlos Alcaraz, Coco Gauff & Jasmine Paolini. And how could we miss Naomi Osaka in Qualifying.

We also hit on the top stories coming out of Canada:

Where you can find M...

He has won every Slam, every masters 1000, ATP finals and now Novak Djokovic has finally won an Olympic gold medal completing the career Golden Slam.

He is not the only one breaking records, this Olympics was full of them with Carlos Alcaraz, Sara Errani & Mirra Andreeva breaking records of their own.

Here is our review.

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Meet Henry Patten and Harri Heliovaara Mens Doubles Wimbledon Champions 2024.

The pair started playing together earlier this year and started winning tournaments pretty much immediately. They quietly made their way through the Wimbledon doubles draw and played one of the matches of the tournament to win the title.

Once pretty much unknown they have been thrust into the spotlight and are helping shine a light on the doubles game as they make their way through the US Swing.

The Mens doubles tour has seen some new trials and innovations come...

Mattia Bellucci is a 23 year old player from Italy.

We talked to him after his 1st round qualifying match at the Mubadala DC Citi Open.

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The Olympics is well underway and the main story is all about the doubles. Rafael Nadal and Carlos Alcaraz and Andy Murray and Dan Evans are having quite the run at the tournament.

In this mini pod with Anastasia, she talks about that and more and also news from the grounds of the Mubadala Citi DC Open.

Mentioned on the Podcast:

Meet the Player: Mattia Bellucci - https://youtu.be/5fEWXVYtYRI?si=0h4mavsFyxO6GMnk

Visit Our Website at - www.groundpasspodcast.com

It’s finally here! The Paris 2024 Olympics starts now. We preview the games and other tennis tournaments happening this week.

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What a weekend!

Nick and Anastasia review the Finals weekend where Carlos Alcaraz completes the Channel Slam winning Wimbledon by defeating Novak Djokovic.

Barbora Krejcikova fulfills a dream. Jasmine Paolini steals the heart of Wimbledon and we have a stellar Double(s) Finals with Henry Patten & Harri Heliovaara and Katerina Siniakova & Taylor Townsend coming out the champions.

And let’s not forget the historic wins by Alfie Hewett and Diede De Groot.

What a weekend indeed!

Mentioned on the Podcast:

Taylor Townsend’s Story - http...

Nick is back and Anastasia quizzes him about his trip to Wimbledon.

We talk about the grounds, atmosphere of the tournament and how to get tickets for next year.

The we talk about the stories that dominated the first week of Wimbledon and preview the Singles quarterfinal matchups.

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Better late than never, Nick recaps his *perfect* day at Wimbledon

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...

Day 3 was rain filled but with some great tennis

Today Nick:

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