Best Of Three

Writer and tennis observer Patrick Parr joins Alvin fresh off watching Carlos Alcaraz vs Casper Ruud at the Japan Open. From '87 MJ comparisons to existential boredom, they unpack what makes Alcaraz’s tennis so magnetic—and what happens when the crowd isn’t on his side.

They also wander through Ben Shelton’s rise, the soul of indoor tennis, and who deserves to make the Turin Finals.

Best of Three Podcast explores tennis with equal parts curiosity and storytelling.

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Duration: 01:05:35

Alvin and Torrey are back after a short break, catching up on the fall tennis swing between Beijing, Tokyo, and Shanghai. The guys dive deep into the growing debate over scheduling — why Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner may start playing fewer events, how player longevity is at odds with the tour’s demands, and what sustainability in professional tennis really looks like.

They debate whether players should push back against longer draws and jam-packed calendars, compare tennis to other sports leagues, and even imagine what a commissioner could do for the game. The conversation touc...

Duration: 00:57:36

The countdown continues! In this episode, Alvin and Torrey break down spots 20 through 16 on their list of the greatest WTA players since the year 2000.

From Slam champions to former World No. 1s, this stretch includes players who dominated, divided opinion, and defined the era. The hosts debate the legacies of Garbiñe Muguruza, Caroline Wozniacki, Victoria Azarenka, Coco Gauff, and Simona Halep — analyzing their peaks, their resumes, and their place in the modern game.

👟 Did Wozniacki do enough with her ti...

Duration: 00:30:46

In this special countdown series, Alvin and Torrey start unveiling their picks for the Top 25 WTA players of the last 25 years. This episode covers spots #25 through #21, where the debates get spicy and the resumes get complicated.

🧮 The rules? Career peaks after 2000, pretend they’re all retired today, and no hiding behind recency bias. Expect some wild cards, some all-time class acts, and a little bit of love for the lefties.

👟 Who makes the cut between Mary Pierce and Coco Gauff? And how do you weigh potentia...

Duration: 00:48:08

Summary

In this episode, Alvin and Patrick discuss the recent US Open, reflecting on the performances of top players like Novak Djokovic, Carlos Alcaraz, and Jannik Sinner. They delve into the evolving rivalry between Alcaraz and Sinner, the impact of psychological factors in their matches, and the significance of crowd dynamics. The conversation also touches on the future of men's tennis, emerging talents, and the role of literature in capturing the essence of these rivalries. The episode concludes with a light-hearted discussion about potential walk-up songs for players, adding a fun twist to the serious analysis.
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Duration: 01:09:50

The US Open 2025 is in the books — and what a finish! 🎾

Carlos Alcaraz and Aryna Sabalenka claimed the men’s and women’s titles, delivering statement wins that felt like a defining moment in tennis.

In this episode of Best of Three, Alvin and Torrey break down:

Alcaraz’s tactical brilliance against Jannik Sinner and how he’s elevating the rivalry.Why Sabalenka’s consistency and finals experience carried her past Amanda Anisimova.The rise of new contenders like Anisimova, Coco Gauff, and Emma Navarro in a deep women’s field.How the men’s game is being red...

Duration: 00:54:33

The semifinals delivered everything — from Osaka and Anisimova trading blows to Sabalenka surviving Pegula in a three-set battle. We break down the tactics, mindset shifts, and razor-thin margins that defined both women’s matches, then look ahead to a blockbuster final: Anisimova vs. Sabalenka.

On the men’s side, we unpack Felix’s resurgence against Sinner, Djokovic’s struggles against Father Time, and why Alcaraz continues to look like the future of the sport. Plus: what Novak’s comments really mean, and whether we’re witnessing a full torch passing moment.

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Duration: 01:13:02

The US Open is down to its final four — and the storylines are sizzling. Alvin and Torrey ask: can anyone slow down Alcaraz? Is Djokovic still the problem no one can solve? And is Felix finally ready to break through against Sinner? On the women’s side, Amanda Anisimova shocks Świątek, Pegula cruises into a heavyweight clash with Sabalenka, and the depth of the field has never looked stronger. Big shots, bigger questions — and a semifinal lineup you won’t want to miss.

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Duration: 01:08:41

Alvin Owusu and Torrey Hawkins break down the key storylines from the round of 16 and look ahead to the quarterfinals. They spotlight standout performances from players like Alex de Minaur, Naomi Osaka, Coco Gauff, and Taylor Townsend, while also examining the depth and impact of the Czech women on tour. The discussion explores tactics, mental resilience, and the role of the crowd in shaping outcomes. Beyond individual matches, they reflect on the broader contrasts between the men’s and women’s games, highlighting rising stars, established veterans, and what to expect as the tournament heads into the next stage.

Duration: 01:08:33

In this episode, Alvin, Ashley, and Torrey dive into the third round of the US Open with insights from both on-site and on-screen perspectives. The trio compares venues and the fan experience, then breaks down standout performances—spotlighting young talents, seasoned veterans, and the fine margins that separate them.

From Denis Shapovalov’s shot-making to Jannik Sinner’s composure, the conversation explores how consistency and mental toughness shape tournament runs. The hosts also discuss the rise of American players, including Ben Shelton’s growing star power and Taylor Townsend’s inspiring surge, alongside the return of...

Duration: 01:09:43

We’re back with a full review of the opening round of the US Open! Alvin and Torrey break down the biggest storylines and matches from both the WTA and ATP draws:

What it’s really like experiencing tennis live vs. on TVVenus Williams’ inspiring comeback performanceMadison Keys’ tough first-round exit & what it means for her careerClara Towson vs. Alex Eala: styles clash in a thrillerThe rising parity in women’s tennis and depth of talentDaniil Medvedev’s continued struggles—has the game passed him by?Novak Djokovic tested by young phenom Learner TienThe parallels between Novak...

Duration: 01:20:49

Part 2 is all about the men’s draw. Alvin, Torrey, and Ashley start with Jannik Sinner’s health after Cincinnati and whether an early test like Alexei Popyrin could make his first week tricky. They spotlight a great opening matchup (Nuno Borges vs Brandon Holt) and work through that quarter’s depth—including Tommy Paul’s form check and quick hits like Bublik–Čilić and Musetti vs Mpetshi Perricard.

The middle of the show covers Zverev’s section (with a likely Duration: 01:07:07

The crew is back with a full breakdown of the 2025 US Open! Alvin and Torrey are joined by Ashley Spicer to react to the revamped Mixed Doubles Invitational and what it means for the future of doubles. From packed crowds at Ashe to million-dollar prize money, they unpack whether this “experiment” can reshape the sport. 

Then, they dive into the women’s draw—Arena Sabalenka’s path, Emma Raducanu’s resurgence, and the big question marks around Jessica Pegula. It’s a jam-packed episode setting the stage for two weeks of New York tennis.

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Duration: 01:51:15

In this special episode of Best of Three, we sit down with 2004 Kalamazoo champion and former ATP pro Scoville Jenkins to relive one of the most electric stretches of his career — from dominating the U.S. junior scene to facing the game’s greatest players under the sport’s brightest lights.

Sco takes us inside his run at Kalamazoo, the pressure and prize of earning a US Open main draw wild card, and the whirlwind of drawing defending champion Andy Roddick in his first-ever ATP match — a prime-time debut on Arthur A...

Duration: 01:32:55

Alvin and Dasef dive into the 2025 Canadian Open (officially the National Bank Open), celebrating Ben Shelton’s Masters 1000 win and Victoria Mboko’s first WTA title on home soil.

They explore the appeal of watching tournaments between Grand Slams, noting how events like this preview form heading into the US Open and give players a chance to build confidence. On the men’s side, they dissect Shelton’s progression into a top-10 threat, his “Captain America” style, physical weapons, and areas for growth—especially in manipulating the ball like Alcaraz, Sinner, or Djokovic. They contrast...

Duration: 01:05:32

Alvin is joined by Anastasia Folorunso, creator of Ground Pass, for a conversation that explores what makes tennis culture so rich—and how it can become more inviting.

They swap stories from the grounds of major tournaments, reflect on their personal entries into the sport, and unpack the contrasting vibes of the ATP and WTA tours. From Federer vs. Nadal to the importance of storytelling and social media, this episode dives into how tennis can evolve to better serve both diehards and casual fans.

Whether you’re a longtime player or j...

Duration: 01:28:42

This week on Best of Three, Alvin and Torrey recap their trip to the DC Open — from witnessing Venus Williams live to dissecting what practice courts reveal about the next wave of talent.

They explore the evolving dynamics of women’s tennis, the emotional weight of watching legends compete, and how up-and-comers are sharpening their tools in training sessions. Along the way, they reflect on the legacy of the Williams sisters, the value of smaller tournaments, and what today’s pros can teach us about longevity, adaptation, and grit.

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Duration: 01:46:34

In this conversation, Alvin Owusu and Torrey Hawkins are joined by Jonathan Stokke from the Baseline Intelligence podcast to discuss the intricacies of tennis coaching and the transition from college to professional tennis

They explore the importance of practice partners, the impact of college tennis on professional players, and the significance of mental strength in achieving success. Jonathan shares his journey from being a player to a coach, emphasizing the need for networking and the evolving landscape of college tennis. The discussion also touches on the fan experience and how it relates to player development, ultimately...

Duration: 01:33:32

Alvin Owusu and Torrey Hawkins kick things off with an in-depth breakdown of the Alcaraz–Sinner rivalry, exploring how Jannik Sinner’s relentless precision is testing Carlos Alcaraz’s shot selection and mental resilience. They introduce the idea of “Total Quality Control” (TQC) in tennis—an emerging way to frame elite performance under pressure—and discuss what tactical adjustments Alcaraz must make to stay on top.

In the second half, the spotlight shifts to the women’s final between Iga Swiatek and Amanda Anisimova. Alvin and Torrey analyze the contrast in playing styles, the psychological to...

Duration: 01:54:04

In this episode, Alvin and Torrey preview the Wimbledon finals and break down the key storylines heading into the championship weekend. They dive into the matchup between Amanda Anisimova and Iga Świątek, analyzing each player’s strengths, weaknesses, and what it will take to win on grass. The conversation also explores the growing presence of American women in tennis, the pressure of Grand Slam finals, and Novak Djokovic’s place in the sport as new stars like Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner rise to prominence. Plus, the hosts touch on Taylor Fritz’s form, the broader state of American...

Duration: 01:32:42

In this episode of Best of Three, Alvin and Torrey dive into the final stretch of Wimbledon, breaking down the upcoming semifinals and the storylines shaping the tournament. They analyze standout performances—including Iga Swiatek’s gritty battle and Belinda Bencic’s resurgence—and explore how grass-court tactics are influencing both the men’s and women’s draws. From mental toughness to strategic shot-making, the hosts unpack what separates contenders from pretenders at this stage. With emerging stars clashing against seasoned vets, the episode sets the stage for an electric finish to the fortnight.

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Duration: 01:22:50

In this conversation, Torrey and Alvin discuss the quarter finals of Wimbledon, analyzing key matches and players, including Grigor Dimitrov's gutting injury, Jannik Sinner's challenges on grass, and Ben Shelton's potential. They also delve into the women's draw, focusing on Aryna Sabalenka and Iga Swiatek, while highlighting the evolving landscape of women's tennis and the significance of upcoming matches.

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Duration: 00:59:52

In this conversation, Alvin and Torrey discuss the ongoing Wimbledon tournament, reflecting on personal experiences and the excitement surrounding the matches. They analyze upcoming matches, player performances, and the dynamics of the tournament, particularly focusing on Naomi Osaka's comeback and the impact of grass court conditions on player performance. The discussion also touches on emerging players and the unpredictability of the tournament, emphasizing that rankings may not dictate success on this surface. In this conversation, Torrey and Alvin discuss the evolution of veteran players in tennis, emphasizing the importance of footwork and how it impacts performance. They...

Duration: 01:17:51

The conversation delves into the ongoing Wimbledon 2025 tournament, highlighting unexpected upsets, particularly in the women's matches. The hosts discuss the tactical adjustments players must make on grass courts, the significance of experience, and the impact of marketing on player visibility. They analyze various matchups, predict future outcomes, and reflect on the new generation of players like Taylor Fritz, emphasizing the evolving landscape of tennis. 

Alvin Owusu and Torrey discuss the legacy of John Isner, the emergence of new tennis talents, and the impact of injuries on player performance. They analyze key matches, including Fabio vs. Carlos, a...

Duration: 01:29:22

Alvin Owusu and Torrey Hawkins break down the upcoming Wimbledon tournament with a sharp focus on the unique demands of grass-court tennis. They analyze both the men’s and women’s draws, spotlighting key players like Sabalenka and Gauff while exploring the role of surface bias, experience, and strategy. From potential upsets to the pressure on top seeds, the conversation offers a dynamic preview of the matchups, storylines, and surprises that could define this year’s Championships

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Duration: 01:31:35

In this episode, Alvin and Torrey dive into the evolving landscape of women’s tennis, debating the case for best-of-five matches at Grand Slams. They unpack the physical toll of extreme heat, the unpredictability of grass courts, and the growing buzz around Wimbledon. The hosts reflect on the evolution of playing styles, the value of variety in today’s game, and their personal connections to certain players. With rising stars gaining momentum, they preview what’s shaping up to be an electrifying tournament season.

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Duration: 01:03:44

In this engaging conversation, Alvin Owusu and Patrick Parr discuss the current state of mens tennis, the complexities of performance, and the impact of social media. They delve into the artistic aspects of the game, the debate over match formats, and the influence of height on player success. 

The discussion also touches on the legacy of Novak Djokovic, the dynamics of grass courts, and the exciting rivalry between Alcaraz and Sinner. Finally, they explore the pressures faced by players like Taylor Fritz and the evolving nature of crowd engagement in tennis.

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Duration: 01:11:28

In this episode, Torrey Hawkins and Alvin Owusu break down all the drama and brilliance from the 2025 French Open. From the electric Alcaraz-Sinner final to Coco Gauff’s rise and Aryna Sabalenka’s evolving game, they unpack the most memorable matches and standout performances. The conversation explores how today’s rivalries are shaping the next era of tennis, and how players like Iga Swiatek, Jack Draper, and Emma Raducanu are handling pressure and expectations. With sharp analysis and their trademark banter, the hosts reflect on what this year’s French Open means for the sport’s future.

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Duration: 01:15:19

Carlos Alcaraz is your 2025 French Open champion—and Alvin Owusu and Torrey Hawkins are here to break down how he did it. From the shot-making fireworks to the tactical chess match against Jannik Sinner, the hosts unpack a men’s final for the ages. They also revisit Coco Gauff’s milestone win on the women’s side and reflect on what both finals mean for the future of tennis. Along the way, they explore the sport’s changing guard, the lasting legacy of the Big Three, and why creativity and emotion still matter just as much as power and precision...

Duration: 01:15:54

In this episode, Alvin and Torrey break down Coco Gauff’s triumphant win at the 2025 French Open, analyzing the key moments, tactical shifts, and contrasting styles that defined her final against Aryna Sabalenka. They explore what this victory means for American women’s tennis and examine the evolution of Gauff’s game — from raw talent to Grand Slam champion. The conversation also touches on Sabalenka’s performance and what she’ll need to adjust going forward. Looking ahead to Wimbledon, the hosts discuss the growing rivalry between Gauff and Sabalenka, the mental and physical challenges players face, and how these st...

Duration: 01:08:44

In this late-night edition of Best of Three, Alvin Owusu and Torrey Hawkins break down the key storylines heading into the French Open finals weekend. They preview the highly anticipated women’s final, spotlighting Iga Swiatek’s dominance and Aryna Sabalenka’s evolving mentality, while also reflecting on Coco Gauff’s continued growth. On the men’s side, they analyze the semi-final matchups, including the generational clash between Jannik Sinner and Novak Djokovic, the resurgence of Sasha Zverev, and the potential of rising stars like Lorenzo Musetti. Along the way, the hosts explore themes of mental toughness, representation in tennis, an...

Duration: 01:02:35

In this episode, Alvin Owusu and Torrey Hawkins preview the quarterfinals of Roland Garros, offering insight into key matchups, player trajectories, and the evolving storylines on both the men’s and women’s sides. They break down intriguing clashes like Sabalenka vs. Anisimova and Swiatek vs. Rybakina, while also analyzing Coco Gauff’s run and her upcoming showdown with Madison Keys. The hosts explore the resurgence of Elina Svitolina, challenges for players like Jessica Pegula, and the impact of training environments on development.

On the men’s side, they highlight the blockbuster quarterfinal between Novak Dj...

Duration: 01:25:20

In this episode, Alvin Owusu and Torrey Hawkins dive into the latest from Roland Garros, with a particular focus on the women’s draw. They spotlight standout performances from rising talents like Hailey Baptiste and Amanda Anisimova, and examine the broader competitive landscape of women’s tennis. The hosts discuss Coco Gauff’s advocacy for equal representation in night sessions and unpack how broadcasting decisions shape match visibility. The conversation expands into issues of scheduling equity, match format challenges, and generational differences in how players approach the rigors of the tour. From evolving player earnings to the complexities of athlet...

Duration: 01:16:58

In this episode, Alvin and Torrey break down the opening round from Roland Garros, diving into the unique demands of clay court tennis and how they’re shaping the tournament. They analyze standout performances, including Felix Auger-Aliassime’s evolving game, and the continued struggles of Grigor Dimitrov and Daniil Medvedev. The conversation also explores the return of Naomi Osaka, rising young talents, and the ripple effects of recent broadcasting changes on how fans experience the event—all with sharp insight into the mental and strategic layers of the sport.

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Duration: 01:00:08

In this episode of Best of Three, Alvin Owusu and Torrey Hawkins break down the French Open draw with sharp insights and bold predictions. They explore the men’s side, highlighting potential breakthroughs from players like Jannik Sinner and Casper Ruud, as well as the challenges facing Alexander Zverev and Novak Djokovic. On the women’s side, they examine the form of contenders like Aryna Sabalenka, Jasmine Paolini, and Coco Gauff, while weighing Iga Swiatek’s title defense and the unpredictability of clay. The episode also touches on coaching shakeups, including Djokovic’s split, and looks at emerging threats across b...

Duration: 01:42:21

In this episode, Alvin and Torrey discuss the recent Italian Open finals, focusing on the men's match between Carlos Alcaraz and Yannick Sinner. They share personal updates, analyze the match's key moments, and delve into the players' fitness and tactical approaches. The conversation highlights the significance of crowd energy and the evolution of both players' skills, culminating in reflections on the match's impact on their careers. 

The hosts discuss the current state of men's tennis, focusing on players like Carlos Alcaraz, Yannick Sinner, and Lorenzo Musetti. They analyze the impact of home advantage in tournaments, the c...

Duration: 01:28:36

In this conversation, the hosts discuss the return of key players in tennis, particularly focusing on Bianca Andreescu and Naomi Osaka. They analyze Andreescu's mental toughness and her potential to return to top form, while also highlighting the emergence of new talents like Peyton Stearns. The discussion touches on the evolution of game styles in women's tennis and the impact of the clay court season on player performance. The hosts express optimism for the future of these players and the overall landscape of the sport. In this conversation, Alvin Owusu and Torrey Hawkins delve into the intricacies of...

Duration: 01:32:58

In Episode 30 of the Best of Three Podcast, Torrey and Alvin explore how age and longevity are reshaping modern tennis. Why are players competing at such high levels into their mid-30s? Is the gap between young talent and veterans widening?

They analyze the evolution of Grand Slam winners’ peak ages, discuss why scheduling and recovery are now more crucial than ever, and uncover the growing talent vacuum between ages 24–27 on the ATP Tour. With legends like Djokovic still thriving and younger players struggling for consistency, tennis may be entering a new era of extended dominance.

Duration: 01:04:17

In this episode of Best of Three, Alvin Owusu and Torrey Hawkins serve up a wide-ranging conversation that spans personal grooming rituals to the gritty demands of the clay court season. They explore player fatigue, the case for a restructured tennis calendar, and the realities aging stars like Novak Djokovic face in a changing sport. On the WTA side, the spotlight turns to Coco Gauff’s evolving game and her growing edge over Iga Swiatek, whose dominance is now being tested. From legacy talk to emerging talent, this episode unpacks the shifting landscape of both the ATP and WT...

Duration: 01:20:35

In this episode, Alvin Owusu and Torrey Hawkins engage in a deep conversation with Jermaine Jenkins, a former NCAA All-American and current USTA national coach. They discuss Jermaine's journey from being a hitting partner for top players like Venus Williams and Naomi Osaka to his current role in player development. The conversation covers the evolution of women's tennis, the importance of adaptability and player development, and the role of college tennis in shaping future professionals. Jermaine shares insights on coaching philosophies, the significance of match count, and the need for players to develop a full game. The episode concludes...

Duration: 01:03:33

In this episode, the hosts explore the power of rivalries and star power in shaping sports narratives, drawing parallels between basketball and tennis. They break down the growing tension between Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner, reflect on classic tennis rivalries, and examine recent standout performances—including Ben Shelton’s surprise run on clay and the role of home-court advantage.

On the WTA side, the discussion turns to the unique atmosphere in Stuttgart, the evolving rivalry between Iga Swiatek and Jelena Ostapenko, and Alexander Zverev’s star status in Germany. The episode wraps with a look ahead to the Fr...

Duration: 00:48:31

In this episode of Best of Three, Alvin and Torrey dive into the Monte Carlo Masters and the opening beats of the clay court season. They dissect Alex de Minaur’s uphill battle on clay, what makes Monte Carlo such a special stop, and the tactical and mental demands of the surface.

Carlos Alcaraz takes center stage as they explore his continued evolution, his connection to coach Juan Carlos Ferrero, and how his game—and mindset—set him apart. The conversation also spotlights rising talents like Arthur Fils, draws comparisons between Zverev...

Duration: 01:29:43