The Functional Tennis Podcast

Over the past 12 months, I’ve been working with biomechanics researcher Dr Nick Busuttil to better understand one simple question…Does the Functional Tennis Saber actually improve your game?In this episode, we dive into the findings from that research and what really happens when players train with a constraint racket.We discuss how the Saber influences stroke mechanics, why players may initially feel less accurate, and how that “useful struggle” can actually help build better timing, contact awareness and more consistent strokes over time.Nick also explains why tools like the Saber can promote adaptability in your game, act as a circuit breaker in training, and how coaches and players can use it effectively in practice and warm ups.If you’ve ever wondered whether training aids actually work or if they’re just gimmicks, this episode will give you a clear, science backed perspective.You can download the full research report here.And if you have any questions after listening, feel free to reach out to me on Instagram here or you can email me here.I hope you enjoy the episode.Fabio

Marc Polmans is now ranked inside the top 60 in doubles after making the Australian Open doubles final but he still sees himself as a singles player.In this episode, we talk about the reality of balancing singles ambition with doubles opportunity, and how one Grand Slam run can shift your season financially, mentally, and strategically.Marc shares:From not being in the draw to Aussie Open finalistThe difference between Futures and Challenger levelWhy ranking points at Slams change everythingHis recent racket switch from the Pure Drive to the Pure Aero and how it compares to Wilson’s “Python” prototypeWhether he’d choose college tennis if starting again todayAnd why the Functional Tennis Saber is useful for doubles playersAn honest look at the grind of pro tennis and the career decisions players constantly face.EnjoyFabio

Justin Van Malderen from Luxilon is back on the Functional Tennis Podcast.At the 2025 US Open, 55% of the Top 100 were using Luxilon strings. In this episode, we discuss why.We talk about falling string tensions on tour, how modern powerful rackets are changing string demands, and why today’s aggressive baseline game requires more durability and control than ever.We also dive into why I chose Luxilon Element for the FT99 racket, how it compares to 4G and Alu Power, and who it’s best suited for.Justin shares insight into Sabalenka’s unique setup, the reality of sustainable strings, and how Luxilon competes as a family business in a market dominated by major global brands.Plus, Justin is offering a €500 Functional Tennis voucher to one listener who fills out Luxilon’s string questionnaire. Tap here to fill it out and the last submission date is on March 31st.If you care about your setup and want to understand what makes a difference at the highest level, this one’s for you.EnjoyFabio

In this episode of the Functional Tennis Podcast, I’m joined by Yuhi Tanigaki, Product Manager for Tennis Footwear at ASICS, to go behind the scenes of the new Solution Speed FF4.Yuhi plays a central role in shaping ASICS tennis shoes, working closely with designers, researchers, professional athletes, and recreational players to turn feedback into real on court performance.We cover what actually goes into building a modern tennis shoe and how small changes can make a big difference.In this episode, we discuss:How long it really takes to develop a tennis shoe from first idea to retailWhat stayed consistent from the original Solution Speed and what has evolvedThe key updates in the Solution Speed FF4 and how they affect feel and movementHow ASICS balances speed, comfort, and durability without adding weightThe role of athlete feedback, including insights from Belinda BencicDifferences between what professional players and recreational players valueWhy ASICS sees the FF4 as an evolution rather than a complete redesignWhich type of player the Solution Speed FF4 is built forThis episode is a deep dive into tennis footwear design and a rare look at how performance products are actually created behind the scenes.

A brief catchup with whats been going on at Functional TennisPodcast breakNew Saber EditionsThe FT99New 2027 productsTariff complicationsPodcast guests

This week on the Functional Tennis Podcast, Fabio chats with Jonas Eriksson, better known as Tennis Nerd, the go-to voice in the tennis world for rackets.With the Functional Tennis Racket of the Year competition underway, Fabio and Jonas break down the most talked-about rackets of 2025, what to expect from the 2026 launches, and why so many pros are playing with blacked-out frames. They also dive into Wilson’s upcoming Pure Aero-style spin racket, shifts in pro player trends, and what makes the modern racket scene more competitive than ever.If you love tennis gear talk, this one’s for you, and if you want info on all the rackets, check them out at Tennis Warehouse Europe and check out Jonas's YouTube account if you want in-depth reviews on the rackets.This podcast is sponsored by ASICS. ASICS is a Japanese company founded in 1949 to give more people the opportunity to experience how sports and movement can have a positive impact on mental well-being.To learn more about ASICS visit their website here: https://www.asics.com/nl/en-nl/sports/tennis/Find us on Social Media:Instagram: Instagram.com/FunctionalTennisTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@functionaltennisYouTube: Functional Tennis Podcast

This week I’m joined once again by Dutch ATP player Jesper de Jong, who has continued his steady rise on the professional circuit.Since our last chat, Jesper has broken into the top 100, reached his first ATP final at the Swedish Open, and played a key role for the Netherlands in Davis Cup. We talk about what feels different now that he’s inside the top 100, the lessons he’s learned from the tour grind, and how he balances results with enjoying the process. Jesper also shares insights from training blocks in Bali, the unforgettable match that sealed his top 100 spot, and what he’s learned from his girlfriend, a professional speed skater.If you’re curious about the mindset and habits behind steady, sustainable progress, this episode is a great listen.FabioThis podcast is sponsored by ASICS. ASICS is a Japanese company founded in 1949 to give more people the opportunity to experience how sports and movement can have a positive impact on mental well-being.To learn more about ASICS visit their website here: https://www.asics.com/nl/en-nl/sports/tennis/Find us on Social Media:Instagram: Instagram.com/FunctionalTennisTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@functionaltennis

This week on the Functional Tennis Podcast I’m joined once again by Portuguese player Jaime Faria, who continues to make strides on the ATP Tour.Since our last chat, Jaime has broken into the top 100, won two Challenger titles, and battled through Grand Slam qualifying winning 11 of his last 12 matches and even sneaking into the US Open as a lucky loser. One of the standout moments of his year was facing Novak Djokovic at the Australian Open, an experience that gave him a clear view of what it takes to compete with the very best.In this episode, Jaime shares what he learned from that match, the challenges of staying inside the top 100, the grind of playing qualies, and whether he still enjoys the process as much as he once did.🔑 Key Topics:🎾 Lessons from playing Novak Djokovic at the Australian Open🏆 Breaking into the top 100 and winning Challengers🚪 Getting into the US Open as a lucky loser💪 The mental and physical grind of Slam qualifying🧠 Staying motivated and enjoying the processA real behind-the-scenes look at the ups and downs of life on tour from one of Portugal’s rising stars.This podcast is sponsored by ASICS. ASICS is a Japanese company founded in 1949 to give more people the opportunity to experience how sports and movement can have a positive impact on mental well-being.To learn more about ASICS visit their website here: https://www.asics.com/nl/en-nl/sports/tennis/Find us on Social Media:Instagram: Instagram.com/FunctionalTennisTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@functionaltennisYouTube: Functional Tennis Podcast

This week on the Functional Tennis Podcast, I’m joined once again by Garry Cahill, one of Ireland’s most respected coaches, former Davis Cup captain, and Performance Director at Tennis Ireland.In this episode, Garry dives into the realities of tennis parenting and why every family’s journey is unique. He explains why no two kids are the same, why parents shouldn’t try to copy someone else’s pathway, and how circumstances from finances to geography to coaching support, make every story different.We also talk about the challenges parents face in the early years, how to handle the car ride home after a loss, the importance of communication with coaches, and why there’s no one-size-fits-all manual for raising a tennis player.🔑 Key Topics:👨‍👩‍👦 Why every tennis parent’s journey is different🚗 The car ride home and handling emotions after matches📈 Setting milestones and planning for the long term💬 The importance of clear parent-coach communication📚 Why tennis needs better resources for parentsWhether you’re a tennis parent, coach, or player, Garry’s advice is packed with insights that can help you navigate the junior journey with more confidence and clarity.FabioThis podcast is sponsored by ASICS. ASICS is a Japanese company founded in 1949 to give more people the opportunity to experience how sports and movement can have a positive impact on mental well-being.To learn more about ASICS visit their website here: https://www.asics.com/nl/en-nl/sports/tennis/Find us on Social Media:Instagram: Instagram.com/FunctionalTennisTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@functionaltennis

This week on the Functional Tennis Podcast I’m joined by John Williams, coach and mentor to world number 1 doubles player Taylor Townsend.John’s approach to coaching is anything but conventional. He doesn’t just build tennis players, he builds characters. In this chat we talk about the characteristics he looks for in players, how his outside-the-box thinking shapes their development, and why mindset and life skills are just as important as technique.Key Topics🎾 The traits that separate good players from great ones🧠 Why developing character is as important as developing skills💡 How to think differently about tennis and avoid a conformist mindset📈 Lessons from coaching top pros and upcoming juniorsQuote“I’m not just coaching forehands and backhands, I’m building people.”From guiding top pros to developing juniors, John shares invaluable lessons for players, coaches, and parents who want to understand what it truly takes to succeed in the sport.EnjoyFabioThis podcast is sponsored by ASICS. ASICS is a Japanese company founded in 1949 to give more people the opportunity to experience how sports and movement can have a positive impact on mental well-being.To learn more about ASICS visit their website here: https://www.asics.com/nl/en-nl/sports/tennis/Find us on Social Media:Instagram: Instagram.com/FunctionalTennisTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@functionaltennis

In this episode, I chat with 17-year-old American wheelchair tennis player Charlie Cooper, a rising star who’s already claimed 2 junior wheelchair singles Grand Slam titles.Born with spina bifida, Charlie’s journey into tennis started with local clinics and has now taken him to the top levels of junior competition. He shares how making the decision to go full-time in 2023 completely changed his development, both mentally and physically.We talk about the improvements he’s seen since going all in, the structure of wheelchair tennis, his tournament experiences, and what he hopes to achieve in the future.Key topics:• How going full-time helped Charlie raise his level• What a typical training week looks like for him• Differences in mindset between juniors and pros• How wheelchair tennis works at the top level• His goals for the coming seasonA super insightful conversation for tennis fans and players alike.FabioThis podcast is sponsored by ASICS. ASICS is a Japanese company founded in 1949 to give more people the opportunity to experience how sports and movement can have a positive impact on mental well-being.To learn more about ASICS visit their website here: https://www.asics.com/nl/en-nl/sports/tennis/Find us on Social Media:Instagram: Instagram.com/FunctionalTennis

🎙️ This week on the Functional Tennis Podcast, I’m joined by Dasha Vidmanova, the former US College #1 player and 2024 NCAA singles, doubles, and team champion.Born in Moscow and raised in Prague, Dasha’s journey through tennis has been anything but linear. From nearly walking away from the sport to becoming a dominant force in college tennis, she now has her sights set on making waves on the pro tour.We chat about:📍 How college tennis reignited her passion for the game🎓 Why she initially didn’t plan to turn pro💪 Learning to lose as part of going pro🧠 The mindset shift that led to major improvements🇺🇸 What it’s like being the best female college player in the US🎯 Her short-term and long-term goals on tour💼 And why she majored in finance, just in case tennis didn’t work outWhether you’re a parent, coach, or young player weighing up college vs pro tennis, Dasha offers refreshing honesty and insight into both paths.Enjoy, FabioThis podcast is sponsored by ASICS. ASICS is a Japanese company founded in 1949 to give more people the opportunity to experience how sports and movement can have a positive impact on mental well-being.To learn more about ASICS visit their website here: https://www.asics.com/nl/en-nl/sports/tennis/Find us on Social Media:Instagram: Instagram.com/FunctionalTennis

This week on the Functional Tennis Podcast, I’m joined by American ATP player Aleks Kovacevic, currently ranked #77 ATPAleks takes us through his surprising journey to the pro tour, from not thinking he’d ever go pro to finding belief during college and climbing the ATP rankings, including a big win over world #5 Andrey Rublev. He opens up about learning to lose, building confidence, and handling pressure on tour.We also dive into his one-handed backhand, how he approaches training and improvement, and why he’s added the Functional Tennis Saber to his warmup to help with timing and focus.Packed with honest insights and practical takeaways, this is a great listen for aspiring players, coaches, and fans of the grind.FabioThis podcast is sponsored by ASICS. ASICS is a Japanese company founded in 1949 to give more people the opportunity to experience how sports and movement can have a positive impact on mental well-being.To learn more about ASICS visit their website here: https://www.asics.com/nl/en-nl/sports/tennis/Find us on Social Media:Instagram: Instagram.com/FunctionalTennisTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@functionaltennis

In this episode, I speak with Clinton Coleman, Senior Scout at IMG Tennis, who helped discover and guide some of the sport’s brightest young talents, including Nick Kyrgios, Alexander Eala, Mirra Andreeva at 11. Clinton shares what he really looks for in juniors, why mindset often matters more than strokes, and how parents can either help or hinder a player’s development. We also chat about the biggest scouting misconceptions and what separates good from great in today’s tennis landscape.What he really looks for in young playersHow Clinton spotted Mirra Andreeva at age 11The biggest misconceptions about talent and techniqueThe role of parents in player developmentWhy mindset and competitiveness matter mostHope you enjoyFabioThis podcast is sponsored by ASICS. ASICS is a Japanese company founded in 1949 to give more people the opportunity to experience how sports and movement can have a positive impact on mental well-being.To learn more about ASICS visit their website here: https://www.asics.com/nl/en-nl/sports/tennis/Find us on Social Media:Instagram: Instagram.com/FunctionalTennisTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@functionaltennis

This week I’m joined by Luca Van Assche, one of France’s top young players and a former Roland Garros junior champion. We chat about his fast rise to the ATP top 70, what it really takes to make the jump from juniors to the pros, and how Futures helped build his resilience and confidence. Luca opens up about the pressure of expectations, how he’s managing a ranking drop, and why balancing university studies with tennis keeps him grounded. There’s loads of insight here into how belief, hard work, and enjoying the game really shape a career.🗣️ 3 Key Quotes 1. “You can win 20 junior Slams and not win matches in the pros.” 2. “Sometimes you’re in a bad place and you say, maybe just one year as a normal person would be nice.” 3. “If you’re not 100 percent from the first point, you’re out in 40 minutes.”✅ 5 Takeaway Points: • Winning a junior Slam is just the beginning, not the end goal • Futures helped him build confidence and mental focus • The ATP level demands intensity from the very first point • Balancing school and tennis adds purpose beyond rankings • Long-term goals fuel motivation during tough stretchesThis podcast is sponsored by ASICS. ASICS is a Japanese company founded in 1949 to give more people the opportunity to experience how sports and movement can have a positive impact on mental well-being.To learn more about ASICS visit their website here: https://www.asics.com/nl/en-nl/sports/tennis/Find us on Social Media:Instagram: Instagram.com/FunctionalTennisTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@functionaltennis

Liam Broady returns to the Functional Tennis Podcast to reflect on the highs, lows, and lessons of his 11-year pro journey. From dealing with a concussion just before Wimbledon to learning how to separate self-worth from rankings, Liam opens up on the mental battles that come with life on tour. He also shares what a conversation with Pep Guardiola taught him, and why sacrifices though tough are worth it in the long run.🗣️ 3 Key Quotes: 1. “You’ve got to be willing to make sacrifices that people don’t see.” 2. “You have to learn not to tie your self-worth to your ranking.” 3. “You don’t get to the top without a few scars.”✅ 5 Takeaway Points: • Mental resilience is just as important as physical fitness • Sacrifices are part of long-term success • Separating identity from results is crucial for mental health • Injuries can strike at the worst times, even when you’re ready • Lessons from other sports (like football) can fuel growth in tennisThis podcast is sponsored by ASICS. ASICS is a Japanese company founded in 1949 to give more people the opportunity to experience how sports and movement can have a positive impact on mental well-being.To learn more about ASICS visit their website here: https://www.asics.com/nl/en-nl/sports/tennis/Find us on Social Media:Instagram: Instagram.com/FunctionalTennisYouTube: Functional Tennis Podcast

In this episode, I’m joined by rising Argentine star Francisco Comesaña, currently sitting inside the ATP top 70. Francisco shares the grind of coming up through Futures with no funding, how a mindset shift helped him break through, and what it was like beating top names like Rublev and Zverev. We also talk about his first Slam experience at Wimbledon, what it’s like playing on grass for the first time, and why belief, fueled by hard work has been the key to his rise.✅ 5 Takeaway Points 1. Breaking through in Argentina is tough without sponsors or early exposure. 2. Belief and mindset are often more important than talent. 3. Playing Futures is a grind that can break many players mentally. 4. Big wins against players like Rublev and Zverev gave him confidence he belongs. 5. Long-term goals include becoming a better person first, and reaching the top 30.🗣️ 3 Key Quotes 1. “The most important thing was that I started to believe in myself.” 2. “Sometimes players are stuck because of mindset, not level.” 3. “Since I was a kid, I dreamed of playing in Grand Slams.” This podcast is sponsored by ASICS. ASICS is a Japanese company founded in 1949 to give more people the opportunity to experience how sports and movement can have a positive impact on mental well-being.To learn more about ASICS visit their website here: https://www.asics.com/nl/en-nl/sports/tennis/Find us on Social Media:Instagram: Instagram.com/FunctionalTennisTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@functionaltennisYouTube: Functional Tennis Podcast

The return of Joe O'Dwyer to the Function Tennis Podcast marks a significant occasion, as it has been five years since his previous appearance. In this enlightening conversation, O'Dwyer, a seasoned ATP and WTA coach, reflects upon his extensive career on the tour, which began in 1999 and has traversed through various eras of tennis. He recounts his experiences coaching notable players such as Robbie Ginepri and Alexander Stevenson, shedding light on the mental fortitude required to succeed in the highly competitive world of professional tennis. The discussion delves into the often-overlooked realities of life on the tour, emphasizing the psychological challenges and the grind that players endure week after week. O'Dwyer poignantly articulates the importance of mental resilience, echoing the sentiments of fellow coaches regarding the necessity for players to possess unwavering determination to navigate the rigors of professional tennis. This episode serves as an invaluable resource for aspiring players and coaches alike, offering insights into the complexities of coaching at the highest level, and the various pathways that can lead to success in the sport.Takeaways: Joe O'Dwyer shares invaluable insights from his extensive experience coaching on the ATP and WTA tours, emphasizing the importance of mental resilience for aspiring players. The journey through junior tennis to professional levels often involves overcoming significant mental and physical challenges, which can define a player's career trajectory. O'Dwyer highlights the critical role of a supportive coaching team and the necessity for players to develop not only technical skills but also mental fortitude in competitive environments. The podcast revisits the narrative of Conor Nyland's success, showcasing how individual stories can inspire and shape perceptions of Irish tennis on the global stage. The conversation includes reflections on the rigorous demands of the professional tour, where physical stamina and mental strength are equally paramount for success. Finally, O'Dwyer underscores the notion that success in tennis is often a marathon rather than a sprint, requiring dedication, patience, and a willingness to adapt in the face of adversity. 🗣️ 3 Key Quotes: 1. “He didn’t ask if they had a forehand—he asked if they were mentally strong enough.” 2. “Just because you played the tour doesn’t mean you can coach.” 3. “It takes a village—and a lot of money—to build a top player.”⸻✅ 5 Takeaway Points: 1. Mental resilience is the #1 trait needed to survive the tour grind. 2. Talent is common—coaching and structure make the real difference. 3. Parental pressure can derail even the most talented juniors. 4. The college pathway is a strong option—if done right. 5. Tennis has a hidden dark side, including gambling and Adderall abuse.Hope you enjoy itFabioThis podcast is sponsored by ASICS. ASICS is a Japanese company founded in 1949 to give more people the opportunity to experience how sports and movement can have a positive impact on mental well-being.To learn more about ASICS visit their website here: https://www.asics.com/nl/en-nl/sports/tennis/Find us on Social Media:Instagram: Instagram.com/FunctionalTennisTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@functionaltennis

In this episode, Lorenzo Petrucci, performance coach to WTA top-20 player Liudmila Samsonova, shares his journey from a tennis-playing student in Milan to working alongside some of the sport’s top talent. He reveals how success on tour is about far more than hitting balls, it’s about managing pressure, building smart routines, and knowing when (and how) to push. From insights learned under Ricardo Piatti to the importance of on-court collaboration with tennis coaches, Lorenzo gives an entire look into elite tennis's mental and physical demands.🗣️ 3 Key Quotes: 1. “It’s not about how good you are—it’s about understanding who you have in front of you.” 2. “The best fitness coaches are the ones who understand tennis.” 3. “You must be clear. The player doesn’t allow you to be in doubt.”✅ 5 Takeaway Points: 1. Success in tennis depends heavily on mental resilience and communication. 2. Strength and conditioning must align with on-court movements, not just gym work. 3. Understanding each player’s physical and emotional needs is key to long-term progress. 4. Female and male players require different training and recovery strategies. 5. A cohesive and collaborative support team makes all the difference.Hope you enjoy itFabioThis podcast is sponsored by ASICS. ASICS is a Japanese company founded in 1949 to give more people the opportunity to experience how sports and movement can have a positive impact on mental well-being.To learn more about ASICS visit their website here: https://www.asics.com/nl/en-nl/sports/tennis/Find us on Social Media:Instagram: Instagram.com/FunctionalTennisTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@functionaltennis