Control the Controllables

Ryan Jones is a British Coach who has been working on the ATP/ITF tour for the past 10 years.Ryan has taken Borna Coric and Kyle Edmund into the ATP top 100 and is well on the way to the same result with young British hope Jack Draper. You may have seen Jack take the first set off World Number one Novak Djokovic in his Wimbledon debut this summer.Ryan comes from a strong tennis pedigree, as the son of Alan Jones. Alan famously coached Jo Durie to the top 5 in the world back in the 1980´s. All three now work together at Junior Elite Tennis academy in the UK.Ryan is clearly passionate about tennis and, like his dad, has discipline at the heart of his coaching philosophy. He gives us raw insight into how he works and what he believes.He also chats to CTC Host Dan Kiernan about:-The impact his father Alan Jones has had on his playing and coaching career.The traits he looks for in a player.Are Coaches in the UK too soft on players?The sacrifices needed to be a tennis coach.His journey so far with Jack Draper.If becoming a Father will change his coaching style.A great listen!Links Mentioned in this Episode:-Episode 103: Borna Coric - OwnershipEpisode 131: Facundo Lugones - Find a WayDon´t miss an episode of Control the Controllables! Check out our website, and subscribe to the podcast here!You can also follow @ctc.podcast on Instagram!

Up until the 2021 US Open, Alastair Filmer was known as one of Great Britain´s leading performance coaches. He´s now more commonly referred to as Emma Raducanu´s former coach. The 18-year-old has been in the spotlight since she stormed to the women´s title as a qualifier earlier this month.Alistair coached Emma between the ages of 11 - 14, guiding her to her first ITF title at 13, and 3rd place at the U14 Orange Bowl. He was Head of Performance at Bromley Tennis Centre for 7 years, before moving to Dukes Meadows as Head of the Regional Performance Centre.In this episode, Alastair talks to Control the Controllables about:-How he felt watching Emma Raducanu win her first Grand Slam.He gives us an insight into her training schedule at age 11 - 14.Did he think she was going to be a superstar at this age?The challenges that come with coaching high-level players.He discusses self-worth and judgment linked to the player you work with, rather than the job you do.Setting the culture and building character first. A fascinating listen!Let us know your thoughts on this episode! Leave a rating and review or you can email us directly at [email protected]´t want to miss an episode? Subscribe on Apple Podcasts and follow us on Instagram @ctc.podcast

In this bonus episode, we speak to Alexa Guarachi who is currently World Number 12 in Womens´doubles.Alexa has just reached the Semi-Final of the Women´s Doubles at the US Open with partner Desirae Krawczyk. The pair previously reached the final at Roland Garros in 2020.The daughter of an American mother and a Chilean Father, the 30-year-old has represented Chile since 2015. She has  5 WTA and 20 ITF Doubles titles to her name and is currently coached by GB´s Craig Veal.Listen to Alexa speak to CTC Host Dan Kiernan about:-How she´s been able to rise up the rankings each year.The impact her tennis-playing parents have had on her career.Her time at the University of Alabama, where she broke the record for the most wins in one season.Coming back from tearing her ACL and how it changed her mindset on her tennis.Her decision to focus on Doubles.How her positive attitude has helped her tennis career.What she believes makes a good doubles partner.The number 1 thing she looks for in a coach. Enjoy!Links Mentioned in this Episode:Follow Alexa on Instagram: @aguarachiFollow Alexa on Twitter: @aguarachiEpisode 129: Wimbledon ReviewEpisode 103: Craig Veal - Step by StepFind out more about SotoTennis Academy and keep up with all the latest at the Academy over on Instagram.

It´s not been a bad few weeks for GB´s Joe Salisbury. In fact, it´s not been a bad year!The 29-year-old completed a US Open double at the weekend, winning the Men´s Doubles with partner Rajeev Ram on Friday, followed by the Mixed Doubles title with Desirae Krawczyk the next day.Joe has now reached 5 Grand Slam doubles finals in 2021, winning 3 of them. He´s now world number 4 and a 4-time Grand Slam Champion.In this episode, Joe talks to CTC Host Dan Kiernan about his amazing fortnight at Flushing Meadows and the incredible run to the women´s title by fellow Brit Emma Raducanu.He also discusses:-Why 2021 has been such a successful year for him.The benefits of his consistent partnership with Rajeev Ram.The impact of coaches Justin Sherring, Louis Cayer & Rob Morgan on his career.Playing his first Olympics this summer with Andy Murray.He confirms if he and Desirae Krawczyk will go for their 3rd Grand Slam together at the Aussie Open.His goals for his tennis career and after. Links Mentioned in this Episode:Episode 129: Wimbledon ReviewEpisode 102: Louis Cayer - The Guru!Follow Joe Salisbury on Twitter: @joesalisbury92Follow Joe Salisbury on Instagram: @joesalisbury92

Facundo Lugones has been Cameron Norrie´s coach since 2017. The pair played together on the Mens Tennis Team at Texas Christian University for 12 months, before Facu became a Graduate Coach for the team. The 28-year-old Argentinian has guided Norrie to 3 ATP Challenger Tour titles, and 2 ATP Tour Doubles Titles. In June, Norrie reached the final at Queens, before winning his first ATP title in July in Los Cabos, breaking into the top 30 for the first time.In this episode, CTC Host Dan Kiernan chats to Facu about:-Why he thinks Norrie has had such a successful 2021 so far.Growing up playing in Argentina with Diego Schwartzman & Nicolás KickerWhy he thinks Argentina is producing so many playersWhy he doesn´t think money is an obstacle for players to be successfulHIs time at US College and how he moved from playing into coaching.His advice to young coaches.Links Mentioned in this EpisodeEpisode 55: Cameron Norrie - College Stud to Pro LifeEpisode 96: David Walsh - Pursuit of the TruthFollow Facu Lugones on Twitter: @faculugonesFollow Control the Controllables on Instagram: @ctc.podcast

If you watched any of the 2021 Australian Open in January, you wouldn´t have missed Craig Tiley.The Director of the Aussie Open was on our screens throughout the tournament as he dealt with tennis players and officials in hotel quarantine for 14 days, and a local lockdown in Melbourne.In this episode, Craig talks to CTC Host Dan Kiernan about the difficulties of running a Grand Slam during the pandemic, and shares all the latest of what the 2022 Australian Open will look like. Craig also looks back on his career in tennis which started in is native South Africa and includes being South Africa´s Davis Cup Captain for 3 years. He also spent 11 years in the USA as Head Coach at the University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign. There he led the mens team to 2 National Team Indoor Championships, as well a 32–0 record and an NCAA Championship in 2003.Now, as well as running the Australian Open, Craig is also the CEO of Tennis Australia.Craig´s passion for tennis and love of helping others shines through in this episode. Enjoy!Enjoyed the episode? We´d love to hear from you! Leave us a rating and review here!You can also head over to our website or follow us on Instagram for all the latest on Control the Controllables!Follow Craig Tiley on Twitter

We´ve kept you waiting for this episode, but it´s worth the wait! Listen to our review of the 2021 Wimbledon Championships with this year´s Mixed Doubles Champions Neal Skupski & Desirae Krawczyk. Neil has recently reached a career high of 14 in the world in doubles. The Brit teamed up with Desirae for the first time at Wimbledon, fresh off the back of her French Open Mixed doubles title with GB´s Joe Salisbury. Also joining the review is Desirae´s coach Craig Veal. They chat to CTC host Dan Kiernan about the highs and lows at SW19 this year, their experience on Centre Court and run to the Mixed doubles title. They also chat about Neils experience representing GB at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. Desirae also answers the burning question....who will she be playing with in the Mixed at next month´s US Open, Joe or Neil?! Enjoy! Connect with us! For all the latest on the Control the Controllables podcast, head to our website www.controlthecontrollables.co.uk You can also follow us on Instagram at @ctc.podcast We´d love to hear from you! If you´re feeling extra generous, you can leave us a rating and review over on Apple Podcasts.

Maik Burlage is a former professional tennis player, and now the founder and CEO of Wingfield. The 30-year-old German played professionally for nearly 3 years, before moving into Coaching and then tech innovation. He set up Wingfield with the aim to bring affordable smart match and performance analysis to the wider tennis community.Wingfield´s technology gives players the opportunity to receive instant video and data from their practise session or match at their local club. The data, like your first serve percentage, is delivered on the court or through a smart phone app.Listen to Maik talk to CTC Host Dan Kiernan about:-His tennis careerHow he moved from player to coach to entrepreneur.Where his love of data came from.How he used the skills he acquired as a tennis player to set up his own company.How he would use data analysis as a coach.The future of data in the sport of tennis.Links Mentioned in this Episode:-Find out more about WingfieldEpisode 123: Luke Jensen - Choose ConfidenceA fan of Data Analysis? You might also like these episodes:-Episode 116: Mike James - A Numbers GameEpisode 23: Craig O’Shannessy - Money ball of tennis!Don´t miss an episode! Hit Subscribe on Apple Podcasts. You can also Rate and Review the podcast and let us know what you think. Or head over to @ctc.podcast on Instagram and hit follow. We´d love to hear from you!

Dr Jim Loehr is a world-renowned performance psychologist.He´s worked with hundreds of top athletes including Olympic Gold medalists and tennis players Jim Courier, Monica Seles & Arantxa Sanchez-Vicario.During his career he´s also worked with military Special Forces, Hostage Rescue teams, surgeons and Fortune 500 CEOs to achieve sustained high performance.Listen to Dr Loehr talk to CTC Host Dan Kiernan about:-How he started working with his first tennis player, Tom GulliksonHis time working with Jimmy Connors & Nick Bollettieri´s Tennis Academy (now IMG Academy)Why he thinks more players aren´t travelling with sports psychologists…yet.How to train mentally and emotionally.Tips to help build your confidence.His belief that character strength can be built in the same way that muscle strength is built, through energy investment.The Hidden Scorecard – the importance of having different success measures.His time working with Olympic gold medal speed skater Dan Jansen.Advice to parents, players and coaches who don´t have access to a sports psychologist.An incredibly informative episode, get your notepads and pens at the ready!Links Mentioned in this EpisodeWebsite: www.jim-loehr.comCheck our Dr Jim Loehrs books hereWatch Dan Jansens´s Story - Never Give UpListen to our episode with Tom Gullikson 

In this episode we speak to British youngster Arthur Fery.The 19-year-old came within 1 match of making the main draw at Wimbledon this year, beating former top 40 player Matthew Ebden in the Qualifying at Roehampton.Arthur has recently hit a career high world ranking of 840. He had a successful junior career reaching world junior number 12, and made the semi-finals of the boys doubles at both Wimbledon and the Australian Open. He´s now studying at California´s Stanford University, signing with the highest UTR of all freshman in 2019, 13.94.Arthur´s parents are French but he grew up in Wimbledon, not far from the All England Club. His mother, Olivia, also played professional tennis, reaching the top 200 in the world and representing France in the Fed Cup. His father Loic is the owner of French Ligue 1 football team Lorient.Listen to Arthur talk to CTC host Dan Kiernan about:-Why he thinks his junior career was so beneficial The impact his Mum has had on his tennisWhy he thinks game identity is so importantHis decision to go to US College and his time so far at Stanford UniversityThe benefits of working with 2 CoachesThe importance of enjoying your tennis!Enjoying Wimbledon? You won´t want to miss our Brits at Wimbledon Special! 10 former and current British players including Kyle Edmund, Chris Wilkinson & Claire Taylor relive their Wimbledon stories and experiences. Links Mentioned in this Episode:-Arthur Ferry on Instagram: @arthurferyEpisode 108: Holger Rune - No DoubtEpisode 125: Brits at Wimbledon Special!

We´ve had to wait two years, but we´re now just a few days away from watching the green grass of Wimbledon on our screens!To celebrate the return of SW19, we´ve brought together a group of 10 former and current British Tennis players to talk about the highs and lows of being a British tennis player during the grass court season!And what a line-up it is...Kyle EdmundHarriet DartKatie O´BrienLucie AhlChris WilkinsonDanny SapsfordClaire TaylorLee ChildsLuke MilliganJulie SalmonAll 10 players share their Wimbledon experiences, and what that feeling is really like walking out onto Centre Court. They also discuss how they managed the expectations of the press, the crowds and the opportunities and challenges that the grass court season brings for Brits.A brilliant episode, full of memorable Wimbledon stories! Not to be missed for British tennis fans!Want more Wimbledon discussion? Don´t miss our Wimbledon Review and Roland Garros Review episode also!

As the grass court season moves into its second week, our Grand Slam panellists are back!Former Belgium number 1 Xavier Mallise, and GB Coach Mark Hilton join host Dan Kiernan to review the French Open and preview Wimbledon.Hear their thoughts on all the action at Roland Garros, and what the short transition from clay to grass is like for the players.Can Roger lift that Wimbledon trophy one more time? Will Serena be able to clinch her 24th Grand Slam? The panellists give their predictions for the men´s and womens title, and picks for ´outsiders to watch!´It´s without doubt our favourite time of year, and we´ve had to wait 2 years for it! Enjoy this episode and enjoy watching all the grass-court action!Don´t forget to check back in at the end of the fortnight for our Wimbledon Review! You also won´t want to miss our special Wimbledon episode on Friday 25th June! Dan chats to 10 former and current British Tennis players including Kyle Edmund, Harriet Dart, Lucie Ahl & Chris Wilkinson about the opportunities and challenges of the grass court season for British players. A brilliant episode and not to be missed for British tennis fans! Connect with us!Head over to Instagram and follow us at @ctc.podcastYou can also keep up with all the latest from Control the Controllables on our website!

If you were a tennis fan in the 80´s and 90´s, you wouldn´t have missed the Jensen Brothers!The original American doubles brothers, Luke & Murphy Jensen were known for their high energy on court, chest bumping and high fives, as well as their long hair and bandanas.Nicknamed the Rock n Roll tennis brothers, they won the mens doubles title at Roland Garros in 1993. Product endorsements poured in and the pair went onto appear on the cover of Rolling Stone and People magazines, increasing global recognition of doubles.In this episode we speak to Luke Jensen, the elder brother, about his tennis journey which saw him reach world junior number 1 in singles and doubles, and number 6 ATP in doubles.Luke has since moved into coaching and is also an analyst for ESPN. He was Head Coach of the Women´s Syracuse tennis team for 7 seasons, and is current Coach of the NY Empires who won the 2020 World Team Tennis title. He also co-founded the Jensen-Schmidt Tennis Academy for Down Syndrome.Luke tells us what is was like growing up in a successful tennis family, his sisters also played to Grand Slam level, and discusses Murphy´s struggle with alcohol and drug addiction during their playing days, and how they are using that experience to help others.An episode full of energy and fun, enjoy!Links Mentioned in this Episode:-Watch Murphy Jenson´s story on The Tennis Channel´s Heroes We Connect, the technology company founded by Murphy Jensen that helps people struggling with drug & alcohol issues.The Jensen-Schmidt Tennis Academy for Down Syndrome.Coco Vanderwegh´s forehand return winner to win the 2020 World Team Tennis Title for the NY Empires.Connect with Us!Catch up with all the latest episodes on our website, www.controlthecontrollables.co.ukHead over to @ctc.podcast on Instagram and hit followDon´t miss an episode! Hit Subscribe on Apple Podcasts. You can also Rate and Review the podcast and let us know what you think. We´d love to hear from you! 

Mike Digby has been a hitting partner to some of the biggest names in tennis.A late-comer to the game, the 23-year-old Brit played tennis to US College level.He´s since travelled to some of the biggest tournaments in the game, practising with and warming up players like Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic, Simona Halep and Coco Gauff.He´s currently a coach at SotoTennis Academy, and has recently returned from hitting with ATP & WTA players at the Madrid Masters.Not an easy job, it´s often role of the hitting partner to emulate the next opponent as much as possible, so having a versatile game, being flexible with your hours and catering to the players wants and needs is a must! In this episode, Mike gives us an insight into what life is really like as a hitting partner to the pros, from the best experiences to the worst! Episode Highlights: [09:00] Hitting with Coco Gauff at the Madrid Masters[13:54] The difference between hitting with the younger and more senior players on the tour[16:03] How Mike got started as a hitting partner to the pros[17:58] Listen to his Novak Djokovic experience![22:18] Find out which player was Mike´s worst hitting experience[31:14] What a typical day as a hitting partner looks like[34:17] How he became a regular hitting partner for Simona Halep[37:30] What´s Medvedev really like?[55:25] Listen to his experience hitting with Roger Federer at the ATP FinalsLinks Mentioned in this EpisodeMike Digby on Instagram: @mikedigbyySotoTennis Academy on Instagram: @sototennisEpisode 98: Tom Hill - Return on InvestmentSee all the latest episodes on Control the Controllables and read more about our guests on our website.

Naomi Osaka´s withdrawal from the French Open this week has called attention to the mental health of professional tennis players.The world number 2 was fined $15,000 for not taking part in a post-match press conference, and threatened with expulsion if she continued to not talk to the media. She pulled out of the tournament on Monday.In this bonus episode we speak to Daria Abramowicz, the sports psychologist of defending French Open Champion Iga Swiatek.A former competitive sailor for Poland, Daria has been a part of Iga´s travelling team since 2019. She gives us her thoughts on the chain of events leading up to Osaka´s withdrawal, and how she hopes this will be a turning point for the mental health of athletes.She also describes her work with Iga and gives advice to players who aren´t able to work with a sports psychologist.ConnectFollow Daria on Twitter: @abramowiczdFollow Control the Controllables on Instagram: @ctc.podcastVisit SotoTennis Academy´s Website: www.sototennis.comListen to the episode with Iga Swiatek on Control the Controllables

Marcus Daniell is not your ordinary professional tennis player.The 31-year-old from New Zealand has reached as high as 34 in the world in Doubles and has 5 ATP doubles titles to his name, but he´s also known for his work off the court.Since 2015 Marcus has donated a percentage of his earnings to charity, and in December 2020 he launched High Impact Athletes. The organisation channels charitable donations to the most effective evidence-based charities in the word, including extreme poverty, children´s, and environmental impact charities. In just 6 months, he´s signed up dozens of professional athletes including tennis players Stefanos Tsitsipas and John Millman to pledge a percentage of their earnings to help others. His goal is to reach $1 million in donations by the end of the year.In 2021, Marcus announced that he would be donating at least 10 per cent of his annual winnings to effective charity organisations for the rest of his life.Listen to Marcus discuss this, his career and more in this very inspiring episode.Some highlights of the episode:- [05:21] Growing up playing and competing in New Zealand[11:43] His experience moving to Slovakia as a junior to train[20:07] Imposter Syndrome and how he needed to break through a belief barrier to help him rise up the rankings[28:56] How he´s using his voice for doubles as a member of the ATP Council.[29:54] Marcus discusses the drop in prize money for doubles players at the this years French Open.[33:23] What ranking do you need as a pro doubles player to break even?[37:27] Discovering Effective Altruisim and donating 10% of his winnings to charity.[38:54] Why he decided to set up High Impact Athletes and the potential impact it will have as it grows.Links Mentioned in this Episode:-Follow Marcus on Twitter: @MarcusDaniellWebsite: High Impact AthletesGiving What We Can80,000 HoursEpisode 39: Mental Health Awareness Week - Joe Dixon

With less that 24 hours to go until Roland Garros gets underway in Paris, we´ve brought our panel of former and current pros back together to preview the French Open.Our panellists are:-GB´s Billy Jean King Cup Captain and former British number 1 Anne Keothavong2012 Wimbledon mens doubles champion and former Denmark number 1 Freddie NielsenGB Coach Mark HiltonHear their picks for the mens and women´s title at this years event, as well as their ‘outsiders to watch’.Defending champion Iga Swiatek will make her return, after her win in Rome. She spoke to Control the Controllables at the start of the clay-court season. Listen to the episode here.Meanwhile Rafa Nadal will be aiming for his 14th French Open title. A win again at Roland Garros would give him 21 Grand Slam titles, moving him ahead of Roger Federer.Anne, Freddie and Mark give us lots of insights, predictions and stories ahead of the the start of the first round matches tomorrow. Don´t forget to check back in at the end of the fortnight for our French Open Review!Connect with us!Head over to Instagram and follow us at @ctc.podcastYou can also keep up with all the latest from Control the Controllables on our website www.controlthecontrollables.co.uk

Alex Ward is a British tennis coach and former player.He reached a career high ATP ranking of 242, winning 14 Futures titles.Alex was part of the 2010 GB Davis Cup squad and played Wimbledon in 2016 & 2017. He came through Qualifying in 2017, losing to fellow Brit Kyle Edmund in the first round. He retired from professional tennis in 2018, moving into coaching, and has most recently been working with Heather Watson.In this episode you´ll hear Alex talk to Dan about:-[06:46] His move to a Spanish Academy at 16 after being coached by his Father[10:43] Spanish Academies v the British tennis system[22:17] The influence the late Paul Hutchins had on his career[25:27] How he was able to play for 10/11 years on the tour.[30:26] His experiences at Wimbledon[39:55] His transition into coaching and working with GB´s Heather WatsonConnectAlex on Twitter: @alexward1990Alex on Instagram: @theawarddControl the Controllables on Instagram: @ctc.podcastDon´t forget to rate, review & subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts!

Paul Annacone is one of the world´s leading coaches. He´s worked with some of the greats including Pete Sampras, Roger Federer and Tim Henman.  Annacone guided Sampras to nine of his 14 Grand Slam Titles, leading to Sports Illustrated calling him “the court whisperer”. He helped GB´s Tim Henman rise from number 41 in the world to a career high of 4. He also led Roger Federer back to World number 1 and his 7th Wimbledon title in 2012.In between this, Annacone was also Managing Director of the USTA Performance Programme from 2001 - 2003 and was LTA Men´s Head Coach for 3 years. More recently he´s worked with Sloane Stephens and is currently coaching Taylor Fritz.A former professional player, Annacone won three ATP titles and reached a career high ranking of No. 12 in singles and 3 in doubles. He won the Mens doubles at thenAustralian Open in 1985 with long-time partner Christo van Rensburg, and won 14 doubles titles during his career.In this episode, Annacone discusses  his coaching philosophy and how he thinks his playing career helped him as a coach. He also tells us stories from his time working with Sampras, Henman and Federer and the differences between them. A must listen!Here´s some of the highlights:-[09:00] Why it´s important to know how to give the same message to different personalities.[18:24] The importance of game identity and working on your/a players strengths.[19:50] Find out what he learned from Pete Sampras as a young coach that helped shape his coaching philosphy.[23:33] Listen to Roger Federer´s reaction to a heartbreaking loss at Wimbledon[28:29] Big picture mentality: Paul discusses his run to the Wimbledon Quarter-finals in 1984 straight out of US College.[33:31] Listen to Paul´s stand-out memory from his time working with Sampras.[38:55] Why he thinks Henman had an ideal game for Clay[44:06] Listen to his memories from the 2012 Federer v Murray Wimbledon Final[47:51] Does he think Federer can win another Wimbledon?[48:51] Who was the easiest to coach? Who had the best backhand? Find out in the Sampras v Henman v Federer Quickfire round!Links Mentioned in this Episode:Paul Annacone on Twitter: @paul_annacone Paul Annacone on Instagram @paulannacone10s Website: https://paulannacone.com/Episode 114: Iga Swiatek - Teenage Grand Slam ChampionIga Swiatek at SotoTennis AcademyEpisode 62: Valerie Kondos-Field - Winning doesn´t always equal success

In this episode, we´re talking all things data with ATP/WTA tennis analyst Mike James.Mike is a former UK tennis coach who moved into the world of tennis data analysis in 2014. Since then he´s worked with many top players and coaches like Stan Wawrinka and Misha Kecmanovic and is now the data analyst for the 2020 French Open Champion Iga Swiatek. He has also set up his own company, Sport Analytics.Mike tells us how he fits into a pro players team, and what information they will ask him for. He explains what he tracks, what trends he looks for and how that data and video footage can be used for player development, scouting reports, pre and post-injury comparison reports etc. If you´re a Coach, he also gives you his top tips for how you can use data to help you improve, and in turn improve your players. He also details how he sets up a scouting report on a player.A great listen!Highlights from the episode:[06:50] Mike describes his journey into tennis analysis[20:03] Mike talks about his experience working with Stan Wawrinka and his coach Magnus Norman[23:32] Pen & paper at the ready! Mike details how he sets up a scouting report on a player.[30:31] Find out at what stage in a match there would tend to be longer rallies.[33:33] Why his relationship will be with the Coach and not the pro player.[37:11] What is the criteria for a "net point" and why it varies.[50:19] Mike talks Primary Patterns and if this applies to the top players[53:52] How he fits into Iga Swiatek´s team and how they use him[1:00:56] One for Coaches! Mike gives his top tips for how you can use data to improve your players. Links Mentioned in this Episode:-Mike James on Twitter: @mikejamestennisMike James on Instagram: @mikejames_tennis_analystTennis Coaches Support Network on FacebookSummer Training Weeks at SotoTennis Academy. Email [email protected] for more information!

Iga Swiatek is the 2020 French Open Champion and world number 17.At just 19 years of age, she became the lowest-ranked woman to reach the final at Roland Garros since rankings began. She also became the first Polish tennis player ever to win a Grand Slam singles title. Not only that, but Iga didn´t drop a set along the way.Iga talks to Control the Controllables about her incredible journey from a young tennis player to becoming a Grand Slam champion as a teenager. She reveals how she felt at the time and afterwards, and talks about the impact her Father, an Olympic rower, has had on her career.A successful junior, in 2018 she won junior Grand Slam doubles titles at Roland Garros and the US Open, as well as the girls singles titles at Wimbledon.Iga has been training at SotoTennis Academy for 9 days as she prepares for the 2021 Clay court season. She tells Dan how she´s feeling now she´s returning no longer as an underdog, but as a Grand Slam Champion.Here are some of the highlights of the episode:-[7:49] Iga talks about the impact her Father who is an Olympic rower has had on her tennis journey.[13:28] Iga tells Dan when she realized that she wanted to be a Pro tennis player.[14:44] Iga looks back at winning Roland Garros last year and what was going through her mind.[17:58] Dan asks Iga if she had moments of thinking she could win, or if she was able to stay in the process.[20:40] Iga discusses her decision to travel with a sports psychologist and how important that´s been.[23:10] Iga describes how the relationship with her Coach, 2020 Coach of the Year started by accident.[26:05] Iga tells us her hopes for the 2021 Clay Court season.[27:47] Listen to what Iga will look back on as success in her tennis career.ConnectFollow Iga Swiatek on Twitter: @iga_swiatek  Follow Iga Swiatek on Instagram: @iga.swiatek Follow Control the Controllables on Instagram: @ctc.podcast.comWe would love to hear what you think of the episode! Rate, review and subscribe to Control the Controllables on Apple Podcasts. Your reviews really do go a long way! You can also email us directly at [email protected] 

Tennis fans will know Lewis Burton as a former British tennis player who reached the final of the Wimbledon boys doubles in 2010.Non-tennis fans will know Lewis as the boyfriend of TV presenter Caroline Flack when she tragically died in February 2020 at the age of 40.In this episode of Control the Controllables, Lewis looks back on his tennis career which saw him reach a high of 218 in doubles and 626 in singles. He won 26 ITF pro circuit doubles titles and qualified for the Wimbledon Men´s Doubles, before retiring two years later at just 22 years of age.Lewis discusses the impact tennis has had on his life and how it helped him as he moved into the modelling and business world, as well as dealing with the immense pain and grief that comes with losing someone you love.Links from the Episode:-Episode 112: Dan Evans & Neal Skupski – Fire & IceEpisode 105: Marcus Willis - From Zero to Hero!Episode 26: Dan Evans – Skills pay the bills!

Dan Evans & Neal Skupski speak to Control the Controllables fresh from their amazing run at the Miami & Monte Carlo ATP 1000 events.Dan made his way to his first ever ATP 1000 semi-final including a stunning victory over world number 1 Novak Djokovic at the Monte Carlo Masters. Up until last week, Dan had only won 4 career clay court matches.Dan and Neal paired up 2 weeks ago after Neal´s regular partner and brother, Ken Skupski returned home from their ATP 500 victory in Acapulco with a blood clot which will keep him away for a few weeks. The British pair have gone on to have 4 top 10 doubles victories and 8 wins in total on their way to the final of both Miami and Monte Carto. It means they are now number 5 in the ATP race. We caught up with Dan and Neal before their first round match in Barcelona this week. They talk about about what they were thinking and feeling during some of the best shots (including those lobs!) and best moments of the last couple of weeks.Follow Dan Evans on Instagram: @danevo.officialFollow Neal Skupksi on Twitter: @nealskupski

In this week´s episode we speak to GB´s Jonny O´Mara and his coach Toby Smith.Jonny O´Mara is a doubles specialist from Scotland who has reached a career high ATP doubles ranking of 44. He´s been working with fellow Scot Toby Smith for more than two years. Toby is the former Head Coach of Tennis Scotland, as well as working with many top British Players to the highest level of the Junior Game. He is also the big brother of GB Davis Cup Captain, Leon Smith. They have a wonderful player/coach relationship that has organically grown the last 15 years and we are lucky get an insiders view into what makes them tick. Here´s a glance at the episode...[14:20] Jonny describes his relationship with Toby.[22:00] Toby explains what he likes to do when he starts working with a new player.[29:00] Jonny explains why he doesn´t like the phrases ¨talent¨ or ¨potential¨[35:09] Jonny discusses making the decision to concentrate on doubles[39:52] Listen to Toby´s thoughts on Jonny deciding to focus his career on doubles.[46:24] Toby describes Louie Cayer´s influence on his coaching[1:08:05] Is Jonny happy with where his career his currently?[1:21:01] Find out who has improved the most on court in the past 13 months, the player, or the coach?!Follow Jonny O´Mara on Twitter: @Jonny_OMaraFollow Toby Smith on Instagram: @tsa.tennisHead over to instagram to like our new Control the Controllables page @ctc.podcastDon´t miss all the latest from the podcast at www.controlthecontrollables.co.uk

If you´re a fan of McEnroe, Borg, Sampras, Agassi or Courier, this is a must-listen episode! Tom Gullikson reached as high as 34 in the world in singles and 4 in doubles. He is a 2-time Grand Slam finalist, winning the Mixed Doubles at the US Open in 1983. Also known as Gully, Tom was the US Davis Cup Captain between 1994 and 1999, leading the US team of Pete Sampras, Andre Agassi, Jim Courier and Michael Chang to victory in 1995.As Team USA's coach, Tom also helped Agassi win a gold medal at the 1996 Olympic Games in Atlanta.Tom talks to Dan about his playing and coaching career, including what is was like being the other side of the net when John McEnroe yelled "You cannot be serious¨ for the first time at Wimbledon!He also speaks about his twin brother Tim´s influence on Pete Sampras´career and the impact of Tim´s death in 1996 to brain cancer.Here are some of Toms best stories.....[21:33] Tom speaks about his twin brother Tim´s relationship with Pete Sampras, and Pete´s incredible gesture on the day of Tims funeral.[25:42] Tom relives reaching the final of the Wimbledon Mens Doubles with Tim in 1983[30:03] Tom describes the week   the Australian Open in 1995, when Pete Sampras broke down crying court against Jim Courier after learning of Tim´s diagnosis with brain cancer. [48:40] Tom tells Dan how he managed all the different characters and personalities in the winning US Davis Cup Team during his 6 years as Captain.[1:01:19] Tom describes his experiences playing Bjorn Borg[1:06:25] Tom tells all on that infamous You cannot be serious! moment in the match against John McEnroe at Wimbledon! Follow Tom on Twitter:@captaingullyControl the Controllables is on Instagram!You can now find Control the Controllables on Instagram! Here we´ll be sharing all the latest from the Podcast on it´s very own dedicated account! Head over to instagram and follow @ctc.podcast You can also keep up with all the latest episode on our website www.controlthecontrollables.co.uk  If you enjoyed this episode, please let us know in the reviews section on Apple Podcasts! You can reach us directly on [email protected]

David Mullins is the current Managing Director of the Intercollegiate Tennis Association (ITA). He spent 12 years as Head Coach at the University of Oklahoma and previously played for Fresno State in California for 4 years, so he really has seen US College from all sides. David is currently leading them through challenging times with 60 colleges across all 5 divisions cancelling their tennis programmes during the global pandemic. David discusses this in great detail as well as his other passion, Tennis in his home country of Ireland. Twitter: @davemullins_ITAWebsite: www.wearecollegetennis.comThis episode is 12 months to the day of our very first episode on Control the Controllables! We have loved every episode and second of bringing this podcast to you, thank you for listening! You can check out all of our episodes over the past year and our fantastic guests on our sparkly new website here!

Holger Rune has been the World Junior Number 1 for the last 3 years and at age 17 he has already started to make his move on the ATP Tour reaching the Quarter Finals last week in Santiago, Chile beating World Number 29 Benoit Paire in straight sets on the way. Holger is full of self belief, confidence and an unwavering focus on the prize ahead.

Borna Coric is coming to the peak of his career on the ATP Tour with a current ranking of 24 in the world and a career high of 12. He gives us insights that we rarely get into a player ‘in’ their career. Insights into his development and continued growth to his opinions on who is really the GOAT! This is a brilliant listen. Enjoy 😊

We review the Australian Open 2021 with our amazing panellists Anne Keothavong, Naomi Broady, Xavier Malisse and Mark Hilton. A fun, insightful show 😊

In 2016, British tennis player Marcus Willis rose to fame with one of the most memorable runs to the 2nd round of Wimbledon in the tournament´s history.In just a few weeks the 25-year-old went from giving up tennis and coaching part-time to ´chancing his arm´ at Wimbledon Pre Qualifying. He was the last man to get into the event at a ranking of 772 ATP. 7 matches later he had won through pre-qualifying, qualifying and his first round Main Draw before finding himself up against Roger Federer on Centre Court.Now 30, Marcus has this week announced his retirement from tennis. Listen to him discuss the reasons for his decision, his reflections on his career, and the complexities of the sport before and after that euphoric moment at Wimbledon. This episode has so many great learnings for us all. Enjoy 😊Twitter: @Willbomb90Apple Podcast: What you talking about Willis?Check out the online courses and programmes available for players and coaches at SotoTennis Academy Online 

The Godfather of tennis comes to help us celebrate our 100th episode of the podcast. The coach to many, namely, Agassi, Seles, Rios, Courier, Arias, Sharapova, Becker..The list goes on. The man who changed the landscape of Tennis Academies globally. This is not a one to miss.. Enjoy 😊Twitter: @nickbollettieriInstagram: @officialnickbollettieriFacebook: @nickbollettieriIMG Academy: www.imgacademy.comBollettieri Tennis and Learning, the inner city program that Nick founded: www.officialbtl.com

Britain´s Dom Inglot has been as high as 18 ATP Doubles, is a Davis Cup Winner, and Grand Slam Semi-Finalist, but he is much more. He is a smart, articulate man who discusses many topics with Dan including self awareness, US College, dumping partners and so much more. This episode was recorded live from SotoTennis Academy in Spain where Dom is training as he prepares for the Andalucia Open ATP event in Marbella. A great listen for aspiring players, parents and coaches. Enjoy!Twitter: @dominglotInstagram: @dominglot

Craig Veal is the current coach to WTA Doubles 15 in the world Alexa Guarachi. Alexa just last week won the WTA 1000 in Dubai with her partner Darija Jurak.Craig is 30 and has already worked at all levels of the sport. He tells us his story and many great insights and learnings along his coaching journey to date. Enjoy 😊Twitter: @craigveal90Linkedin: linkedin/in/craig-veal

Louis Cayer has coached multiple Top 100 singles players, but has made his global name through coaching multiple Grand Slam Doubles Champions and World Number 1’s including changing the landscape of British Doubles over the last 15 years. His knowledge truly is second to none, make sure you have a note pad ready for this one. Enjoy 😊To celebrate the release of the 100th Control the Controllables Podcast this week, we are giving you the chance to win a SotoTennis Academy Online Course of your choice! 👀    To give yourself a chance of winning this Instagram giveaway, you have to:    1. Like our Instagram GIVEAWAY POST here and follow @sototennis and @macxtennisacademy.    2. Tag a friend in the comments and tell us your favourite podcast to date.    3. Score a bonus entry by reposting on your Instastory and tagging us. IMPORTANT: For bonus entries, please make your account public so we can see your story and include your extra chance to win in the prize draw! The Giveaway ends on Tuesday 2nd March at 2pm CET.  The winner will be randomly selected and will be notified via direct message on Instagram. GOOD LUCK! We look forward to seeing your favourite podcasts!Want to check out what you can win? Explore STA's Online Courses here!

John Cavill is an inspiration to us all, as he creates opportunities for coaches and clubs across the UK through bringing remote ‘tennis’ classes to thousands and thousands of school kids in the UK. This is where it all starts in our sport. Not only has the initiative created lots of local media attention but John has recently featured on BBC Breakfast, BBC Look East and ITV Anglia. Tennis Works is now involved in raising funds for Comic Relief through the Red Nose Tennis Challenge and hope that children and adults across the country will get involved.Listen to how John is now working with over 2000 schools a week through lockdown and get involved in his Red Nose Day challenge!Email John to get involved in the Red Nose Day Challenge: [email protected] can donate to the Red Nose Day Challenge here:https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/tennisu-rednoseday21Facebook: www.facebook.com/TennisUnlockedTwitter: @tennisunlockedInstagram: @tennis.unlocked

David Walsh is the Chief Sports Writer at the Sunday Times. He is famously known for his successful pursuit of justice with cyclist Lance Armstrong and his doping charges. David continued to track the truth down despite Armstrong throwing all of his power at him and the Sunday Times. His work outside of this continues to be commendable including ghost writing for Kevin Pietersen´s autobiography and to come soon, research into the great Tom Brady. This is a must listen, enjoy 😊Twitter: @DavidWalshSTBook: Seven Deadly Sins: My Pursuit of Lance ArmstrongMovie: The Program (Available on Netflix)

We have a panel of Anne Keothavong, Naomi Broady, Xavier Malisse and Freddie Nielsen to preview the Australian Open. From current news in Melbourne, to their favourite Aussie Open stories. We then dig into their picks for this years event and also their ‘watch out’ outsiders for both the Women’s and Men’s events. The episode is full of fun, insight and knowledge. Enjoy 😊

Tom Hill aged 25 from the UK is the coach to WTA 22nd in the world Maria Sakarri. How you may ask? We unlock this and so much more with stories from his hitting partner days, his IMG Academy days, his time coaching Danielle Collins and much more. You get out what you put in. EnjoyTwitter: @Hill_Thomas

Eleanor Preston is the Director of The Emilia Group which is a PR and Media company in sport, but mainly in tennis. She has years of experience which includes Journalism, Broadcasting, Agent to the late Elena Baltacha, and multiple years at the Olympics and all the Grand Slams making sure all is working well behind the scenes. In this episode, Eleanor shares her stories and insights from it all. Enjoy 😊Twitter: @eleanorpresThe Emilia Group:Website: www.theemiliagroup.comTwitter: @TheEmiliaGroup

Mark Petchey is a former top 100 ATP player, former British Number 1. He went on the be the Head of Men’s Tennis at the LTA before coaching Andy Murray as he transitioned from 350 to top 50 ATP. His last 15 years have been spent mainly on our screens as a SKY, BBC, Amazon Prime Commentator and pundit with a small stint coaching Maria Sakarri. His daughters both have US College scholarships, so he truly has seen tennis from all sides. A great listen

The Skupski brothers are back playing together on the ATP Tour 2021 after a couple of years where Neal player with Jamie Murray. We here all about the split, the realities at the top level of the doubles tour and why the boys are back together.. Oh and their opinions and facts shared on the quarantine in Australia right now the Aus Open 2021. Are the players or Aus Open negligent to the Quarantine challenges?

Dasha Kasatkina has been talked about as one of the biggest up and coming stars on the WTA Tour with a final in Indian Wells and back to back Quarter Finals at French Open and Wimbledon moving her to top 10 aged 21. Then expectation hit and the last 2 years haven’t been quite the same due to not being ready to handle that pressure, but the comeback to the top of the game is on! She discusses it all. Enjoy ☺️

This podcast is a review of Control the Controllables in 2020. We discuss our favourites pods, our learnings and what you can expect for 2021 from the podcast. Can we also take this opportunity to wish you all a very happy new year and a year of health and happiness.

Oli Golding is a US Open Junior Singles Champion. He was a childhood star on the stage, including the West End and he now works at Santander Bank. We discuss the challenges of the journey, and his reflections on why he didn’t succeed to the dizzy heights that all had planned for him in the tennis world, but was it all a waste of time? Fanatic honest reflections that will resonate with many.

Xavier Malisse is a former top 20 ATP player who made the semi-finals of Wimbledon in 2002. He had wins over Roger Federer,Rafael Nadal, Novak Djokovic and Andy Murray in his career. Xavier discusses his journey into tennis, his regrets, his honest reflections on whether his talent level was lived up too. Great stories and insights from a brilliant tennis player and an even better person. Enjoy 😊

John Morris is a sports agent who currently works at the LJ Sports Group with Ivan Ljubicic. He was Nick Kygrios’s agent for 10 years and shares many stories from the tour, as well as valuable insights and dos and donts for young players. A great listen!Read full show notes here.Links & ResourcesControl the Controllables: Website | Instagram | EmailLJ Sports Group websiteFollow John Morris on TwitterSotoTennis Academy website

Young British player Jodie Burrage is already 250 WTA. She has been through 3 major surgeries, but has developed a maturity and resilience from this that puts her in a great place. She discusses how that mindset changed and how her love for the sport developed in a humble yet insightful way. Enjoy

Jez Green has been working as a top physical conditioning specialist for more than 20 years on the ATP & WTA Tour.During this time he´s worked with Tomas Berdych, the USTA, and Harvard University, but he´s best known for his work with Andy Murray, helping him to 2 Grand Slam wins and an Olympic Gold medal.Jez has been working with Alexander Zverev since 2015.In this episode Jez looks back at all this and more. He goes into amazing detail around philosophy, preparation around Murray and Zverev and so much more. A real treat!Read full shownotes here.Connect with Control the Controllables: Website | Instagram | Email

A former World Number 6 in singles and 9 in doubles. A quite incredible record which includes wins over Bjorn Borg and Roger Federer with so many in between. He discusses it all. The Olympic highs and lows and we get to see into a mind of a champion as a player and now as a coach to Frances Tiafoe. An amazing listen

Lloyd Glasspool is a former NCAA champion and is currently 150 ATP Doubles. He has partnered Dan Evans, Jamie Murray and Andy Murray in recent months. his journey from quiet teen to pro player who is also studying his MBA is full of great lessons and stories