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The Tennis Podcast

The Tennis Podcast

1,493 episodes — Page 25 of 30

Jo Konta: Champion, Role-Model, Future No.1? Incredible Federer - Three Titles And Out, For Now; Kyrgios Comes-Of-Age.

In becoming the first British woman to lift the Miami Open trophy, Jo Konta scored the nation’s most notable win by a female tennis player since Virginia Wade won Wimbledon in 1977, and reached World No.7 in the process.In the view of the Tennis Podcast team, this is only the beginning for Konta. On the latest show, presenters Catherine Whitaker (Eurosport) and David Law (BBC 5 Live, BT Sport) agreed that she is a going to be a powerful, influential, positive role-model. But how far can she go on the court? They debate her prospects, considering whether Grand Slam titles and perhaps even the World No.1 ranking are possibilities. Roger Federer, meanwhile, keeps winning, aged 35 and a half. Australian Open, Indian Wells, Miami and out, for now, as he revealed he won’t play again until the French Open. How is he doing this? Would he win if he played the 2006 version of himself? And could he even win the French Open? The man he squeezed past in the semifinals, Nick Kyrgios, appears, in the view of the... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Apr 3, 201753 min

Miami underway, Murray and Djokovic hurt, and what should tennis do with on-court coaching?

As Miami got underway and concern grew for the health of Andy Murray and Novak Djokovic, the subject of on-court coaching came under the spotlight, and the Tennis Podcast team are debating it in this week’s show. Is it time for the men’s game to follow the lead of the women’s game and allow a mic’d up Ivan Lendl on to the court to tell Murray what’s what?Is it a ‘bad look’ for the sport, as many commentators have deemed it, for only female players to be seen asking for help on court? Should it be taken out of the sport altogether, or should tennis go much further and allow coaching from the stands between points? It’s all discussed in the latest Tennis Podcast.The health of Murray and Djokovic is discussed, the chances of Simona Halep, Jo Konta and the various other runners and riders in Miami are covered, and one of the show’s presenters reveals details of a scarcely credible tennis victory. There is also reaction to the latest Nick Kyrgios Twitter Q & A. The Tennis Podcast is a weekly... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mar 27, 201756 min

‘Federer will finish 2017 as the World No.1’; Vesnina Makes The Heart Sing In Indian Wells; Why is 30 the new 20?

Roger Federer, who will turn 36 in August, will finish 2017 as the World’s No.1 male tennis player if he stays healthy.That’s the view of David Law, the BBC 5 Live and BT Sport tennis commentator and one of the presenters of The Tennis Podcast, which is produced in association with Telegraph Sport.Federer added the Indian Wells title to his win at the Australian Open in Melbourne in January, and Law said on the new edition of the podcast that, with the physical and form issues being experienced by Andy Murray and Novak Djokovic currently, added to the freshness and brilliance being exhibited by Federer, the Swiss player overhauling everyone by the end of the year. Elsewhere, Law and co-host Catherine Whitaker, a tennis presenter for Eurosport, wonder why so many of the players in the latter stages of big tournaments tend to be over 30 these days, including the excellent Elena Vesnina, who won the women’s title 15 months after finishing 2015 outside the world’s Top 100.There is concern over Murray... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mar 20, 201749 min

Indian Wells Quarter Of Death; Why Can't Andy Murray Crack It? Wozniacki / Sharapova Fall-Out; Who Is Kayla Day?

Andy Murray said he had never seen anything like it. Tennis Twitter almost broke. That’s what happened when the BNP Paribas Open draw in Indian Wells pitched Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal and Juan Martin Del Potro into the same quarter of the draw, along with precocious talents Alex Zverev and Nick Kyrgios.But who will come through it? Kyrgios faces Zverev, and Djokovic meets Del Potro tonight. The winner of those matches will clash in round 4. And then the winner of that is likely to meet the winner of Federer and Nadal. That’s just to reach the semis.On this week’s Tennis Podcast, Eurosport presenter Catherine Whitaker and BBC 5 Live and BT Sport commentator David Law make their predictions.There’s also discussion about Murray’s early demise in the Californian desert for the fourth time in seven years. What is his problem in Indian Wells?The comments of Caroline Wozniacki about Maria Sharapova’s wild card for Stuttgart, and her wild cards in general, are debated.There’s the... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mar 14, 201751 min

Murray Back And Bouncing; Kyrgios - Will He Ever Crack It? Sam Querrey - Where Did That Come From? Roger Federer - What Happened? #MyChildhoodTennisMemory

The big guns returned to action in Dubai and Acapulco with varying degrees of success, and Catherine and David convened to discuss a jam-packed week on The Tennis Podcast.Andy Murray scooped the title in Dubai, but only after winning a 30-minute, 38-point tie-break. He looked like his old self, according to the Tennis Podcast team. Nick Kyrgios scored one of the biggest wins of his career over Novak Djokovic, making it a hat-trick of wins over Djokovic, Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal in his first matches against them. But he promptly lost to Sam Querrey. A fierce argument ensues between Catherine and David about whether he will ever crack it at Grand Slam level.On the subject of Querrey, it wasn’t just a win over Kyrgios. He knocked out seasoned players galore with victories over David Goffin, Dominic Thiem and then Rafael Nadal in the final. Where did that run of form come from, and can he build on it?Roger Federer returned, but it wasn’t one of his better weeks, as he lost a tie-break from 5-1 up... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mar 6, 201746 min

Federer - 3 More Years? Did Murray Overtrain? Why Is Djokovic Playing Acapulco?

The Australian Open champion Roger Federer, the World No.1 Andy Murray, and the man who has dominated the men’s tennis world for years, Novak Djokovic, return to action this week, and all are discussed at length in the new Tennis Podcast.Catherine Whitaker (Eurosport) and David Law (BBC 5 Live, BT Sport) convene to discuss whether they think the headlines about Federer committing to playing for a further three years will be realised, whether Andy Murray might, in the words of the Telegraph’s Simon Briggs, have overtrained and given himself shingles, and why Djokovic has taken a late wild card into Acapulco.Looking back at a packed week on the tennis calendar, the team cover the rise of David Goffin and Elina Svitolina, two relatively unheralded figures, who broke into the world’s Top Ten over the past week. Will they become forces at the Grand Slam tournaments?The podcast looks at Donald Young, so long a relative underachiever, who has a suddenly notable but highly unusual claim to fame - beating... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 27, 201756 min

Karolina Pliskova - No.1 Material? Surprising Winners - Harrison, Dolgopolov, Tsonga; What Next For Juan Martin Del Potro?

Karolina Pliskova has only lost one match all year, winning the title in Doha last week to add to her Brisbane victory and Fed Cup success. She reached the final of the US Open last September, beating Venus and Serena Williams along the way. So, is Pliskova the next new Grand Slam champion and World No.1 on the WTA Tour?In the latest Tennis Podcast, recorded in London Marylebone station, David Law (BBC 5 Live and BT Sport) and Catherine Whitaker (Eurosport) made their predictions, as did legions of the show’s listeners. On the men’s side, there were three surprising winners - Jo Wilfried Tsonga lifting his first trophy in two years (Rotterdam), Alexandr Dolgopolov his first for 5 years (Buenos Aires), and a tearful Ryan Harrison won the first title of his career (Memphis).The return of Juan Martin Del Potro to play his first tennis of the year is discussed, and the team also debate the fact that Serena Williams, Caroline Wozniacki and Eugenie Bouchard appeared in Sports Illustrated’s Swimsuit... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 21, 201746 min

Britain Final Through In Fed Cup; Dimitrov Delight In Sofia; Maria Sharapova - Should Wimbledon Give Her A Wild Card?

It was Fed Cup week, and Britain were celebrating progress, despite it going down to the wire. Captain Anne Keothavong joins David Law and Catherine Whitaker to describe the emotions she was going through and how she made her big doubles decision.Elsewhere, Czech Republic kept on rolling, and will now face USA, who were trying to deal with controversy having played a World War 2 version of the German national anthem. On the men’s tour, there were three very different winners in Grigor Dimitrov, Alex Zverev and Victor Estrella-Burgos. All three are discussed in the latest Tennis Podcast.And we debate the subject of Maria Sharapova and wild cards. Madrid have announced that they are awarding her one, but what will Wimbledon do if she doesn’t have the ranking points to qualify automatically?The Tennis Podcast is produced in association with Telegraph Sport. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 13, 20171h 2m

Shapovalov - Should Tennis Have Stiffer Sanctions? Davis Cup Review; Rafael Nadal - What Happened Next?

An otherwise thrilling Davis Cup weekend ended in numbed silence after 17-year-old Denis Shapovalov smashed a ball away in frustration which crashed into the eye of chair umpire Arnaud Gabas. He was instantly defaulted, sending Great Britain through, and Canada out of the competition. A few hours after the incident, Catherine Whitaker (Eurosport), freshly back from Melbourne and wrapped in a comical coat to protect against the weather, and David Law (BBC 5 Live) met at London Marylebone station to discuss what had happened. Should Shapovalov have been dealt a harsher punishment? Is a lengthy ban in order? Or was it just an accident and everyone should leave him alone?That and all of the other Davis Cup ties are covered, as is a big win for Kiki Mladenovic, and the Fed Cup is previewed.Plus, David gives the inside track on what Rafael Nadal did next after his Australian Open final defeat (they shared a plane). The Tennis Podcast is produced in association with Telegraph Sport. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feb 6, 201741 min

Australian Open Day 14 - Federer's 18th: His Greatest Achievement?

Fittingly, it went five sets, and they saved the best for last. Roger Federer produced a period of other-worldly tennis to win his 18th Grand Slam title against his biggest rival of all.Catherine Whitaker (Eurosport) and David Law (BBC 5 Live) concur that it amounts to the greatest of all of his victories. In a Tennis Podcast recorded moments afterwards, they explain why.Over the course of the 30-minute show, they discuss where the match was won and lost, what happened to Nadal after going a break up in the fifth, and Mats Wilander drops by to give his verdict.We also hear from Rene Stauffer, journalist from Tages Anzeiger in Switzerland. Stauffer has covered Federer since he was junior and is uniquely placed to sum up the victory. The Tennis Podcast in Australia was produced in association with Telegraph Sport and Eurosport. The weekly show will return soon. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 29, 201730 min

Australian Open Day 13 - Serena Williams Makes History; Roger vs. Rafa - Previewed with John McEnroe and Boris Becker

Serena Williams made history by winning a 23rd Grand Slam singles title, and then the tennis world's attention turned to Roger Federer vs. Rafael Nadal. In the Day 13 Tennis Podcast from the Australian Open, Catherine Whitaker (Eurosport) and David Law (BBC 5 Live) convened to look back and ahead. What was the match like between Serena and Venus? How big an achievement is a 23rd Slam? Will she break Margaret Court's number of 24? And how long will she continue to play?As we look ahead to Rafael Nadal vs. Roger Federer, Catherine interviews John McEnroe, David speaks to Boris Becker, and we hear from Federer, interviewed by Mats Wilander for Eurosport.A Tennis Podcast, produced in association with Telegraph Sport and Eurosport, will be available to download after the men's singles final on Sunday. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 28, 201741 min

Australian Open Day 12 - Federer vs. Nadal. It's On. Dimitrov Has Arrived; Serena vs. Venus - The Preview

Nine years since the one and only time that Serena Williams played Venus Williams, and Roger Federer met Rafael Nadal in the same Grand Slam tournament, it will happen against this weekend.After Nadal somehow subdued the brave, magical tennis of Grigor Dimitrov in a five-set, near five-hour epic on Friday night, Catherine Whitaker (Eurosport), David Law (BBC 5 Live) and Simon Briggs (Telegraph) got together on the Tennis Podcast to try to make sense of it all.Where was the match won and lost? How devastated was Dimitrov in his post-match interview? And what physical state will Nadal be in by the time he makes the final?Plus, with less than 24 hours to go until the Venus Williams vs. Serena Williams final on Saturday, who do the team think will come out on top? Will Venus win the title for the first time, in her 37th year? Or will Serena break the record she shares with Steffi Graf for Grand Slam title No.23? It’s all discussed in the Tennis Podcast. A new Tennis Podcast is available throughout the... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 27, 201723 min

Australian Open Day 11 - Williams Sisters To Meet, Same Place, 14 Years On; Federer Into Final; Dani Vallverdu Interview

In 2003, Tennis Podcast presenter David Law covered his first Australian Open for BBC Radio 5 Live.He had brown hair, not the grey of today. Andre Agassi won the men’s title. Roger Federer had yet to win a major event and was regarded as an underachieving prodigy who might never fulfil his talent. And hardly anyone had ever heard of Rafael Nadal, Andy Murray and Novak Djokovic, who were effectively still children.In the women’s final, Serena Williams beat Venus Williams. Fourteen years later, they will meet in the final again.After witnessing their journey through the semifinals, and then the victory of Federer over Stan Wawrinka, Law and Catherine Whitaker (Eurosport) convened to discuss a momentous day on the Tennis Podcast. We also hear from Dani Vallverdu, the coach of Grigor Dimitrov, who will take on Rafael Nadal in the second semifinal on Friday, about how they got together and the difference he has been able to make. There will be daily editions of The Tennis Podcast throughout the... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 26, 201732 min

Australian Open Day 10 - Finally Grigor; Rafa’s Renaissance; Serena Slams Konta; Lucic-Baroni: ‘This Moment Has Made My Life’

Grand Slam tennis tournaments always throw up a special moment or two, a decent storyline, and usually a fitting crescendo.But the Australian Open is different. Everywhere you turn there are stories.Yesterday, Roger Federer and Venus Williams, aged 35 and 36 respectively, advanced to the final four. Today it was the turn of Rafael Nadal, who hasn’t reached a Grand Slam semifinal in more than two years, Serena Williams, who is 35 years of age and chasing 23 Grand Slam titles, Grigor Dimitrov, who finally looks like coming of age, and the best of the lot - Mirjana Lucic-Baroni - who reached a semifinal 18 years after her first. 'This moment has made my life,' she said.With all of that in mind, Catherine Whitaker (Eurosport) and David Law (BBC 5 Live) didn’t really know where to start, so they asked Mark Petchey what he makes of it all instead.Can Federer win title No.18? Will Nadal stop him in the final again? Is Stan Wawrinka going to ruin everyone’s party the way he can? Or is Dimitrov ready to... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 25, 201729 min

Australian Open Day 9 - Andy Roddick: ‘A Federer vs. Nadal final would be the most important Australian Open match ever’; Martina Navratilova on Konta vs. Serena; Chris Clarey on everything

On a day that Roger Federer moved one match away from the final of the Australian Open, and Rafael Nadal is still there, Andy Roddick joined The Tennis Podcast to declare that a meeting between the two in the final could be ‘the most historically significant match ever’. Roddick, inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame in an on-court ceremony, told podcast presenter Catherine Whitaker (in Melbourne for Eurosport) that it could be an earth-shifting moment for the sport if it happens. He also talks Milos Raonic, Serena and Venus Williams, and who he thinks will win the two titles.The podcast team are also joined by Christopher Clarey, who has covered tennis for the New York Times for more than 20 years. Clarey talks about his impressions of the greats and their resurgence, and the rise of Coco Vandeweghe, who will face Venus Williams in the semis. They also preview Serena Williams vs. Johanna Konta, with Martina Navratilova giving her views on the match to David Law (BBC Radio 5 Live).... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 24, 201731 min

Australian Open Day 8 - Serena, Venus, Nadal, Federer Rage Against The Dying Of The Light; The Lucic-Baroni Story; and will Dan Evans make his flight?

It’s 2017 but it feels like 2007. The Williams sisters Serena and Venus are in the quarterfinals of the Australian Open on course to meet in the final, and Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal will also clash if they win two more tennis matches each.While Nadal put Gael Monfils away in four sets to set up a last 8 clash with the highest remaining seed Milos Raonic, Catherine Whitaker (Eurosport) and David Law (BBC 5 Live) sat in the Melbourne press room to discuss day 8 at the Australian Open on The Tennis Podcast. What did they think of the defending champion Angelique Kerber’s late-night loss on Sunday? How does the form of Jo Konta compare to Serena Williams, who she will face in the quarterfinals? And who is Mirijana Lucic-Baroni, who has also made the last 8?How much of a surprise is it to see Federer playing tennis like this after six months out of the game? We ask Goran Ivanisevic and Michael Chang. And is he going to go all the way here? There’s also some frustration with Monfils, a question mark... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 23, 201737 min

Australian Open day 7 - Murray Out In Stunning Upset; Zverev, Wilander Reaction; Federer, Venus Roll On; Evans Run Ends

In a display of serve-volleying and chip-charging that had John McEnroe and Pat Cash drooling, Misha Zverev dumped Andy Murray out of the Australian Open in the last 16.Catherine Whitaker and David Law recorded the Day 7 Tennis Podcast in front of the Australian Open big screen during the final set of Roger Federer vs. Kei Nishikori, but it was the loss of Murray that was the headline news.How did Zverev do it? They discuss it, we hear from Mats Wilander, and the man himself. What, if anything, was wrong with Andy Murray?Federer finally found a way past Nishikori, and must be fancying his chances after the demise of Murray and Djokovic. First though, he needs to stop Zverev in the quarterfinals.Dan Evans’ Australian odyssey came to an end, and on the women’s side, Venus Williams kept on rolling, as did David’s pick for the title - Garbine Muguruza. And, in a moment that earned David's respect, Catherine tried a Brummie accent ...There will be daily editions of The Tennis Podcast throughout the... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 22, 201737 min

Australian Open Day 6 - Nadal Outlasts Zverev; Konta Destroys Wozniack; Brummie Murray Prepares For Battle

Two generations collided when Rafael Nadal met Alex Zverev on Saturday, and afterwards David Law (BBC 5 Live), Catherine Whitaker (Eurosport) and Simon Briggs (Telegraph Sport) convened to discuss it. Given that Zverev won a seemingly pivotal 37-stroke rally, why did he fade afterwards? Is Nadal back to his best? How far can he go? And what does the future hold for the prodigiously talented teen Zverev? It’s all discussed.Meanwhile, Britain’s Jo Konta thrashed a supposedly in-form, former World No.1 in Caroline Wozniacki 6-3, 6-1. How far can she go? Could she beat Serena Williams if they meet in the quarterfinals? We hear from her. Catherine is also joined by the former Wimbledon champion Marion Bartoli to discuss the latest situation in the women’s draw. And the day before Andy Murray takes on Mischa Zverev, Alexander’s elder brother, and then the ‘Brummie Murray’ Dan Evans (as David has nicknamed him) meets Jo Wilfried Tsonga, we wonder whether the British pair can make the quarterfinals. There... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 21, 201734 min

Australian Open Day 5 - Federer Flies; Evans Soars; Carlos Moya Interview

On day 5 of the Australian Open, Dan Evans reached the second week of a Grand Slam tournament for the first time in his career and Roger Federer produced an imperious reminder of the player that dominated the sport 10 years ago.Afterwards, Catherine Whitaker and David Law convened in the Eurosport green room to discuss it on the Tennis Podcast, and had the unexpected bonus of a chat with a multiple Grand Slam singles champion.We hear from Evans after his win, and the Great Britain Davis Cup captain Leon Smith about his chances against Jo Wilfried Tsonga.And, ahead of the Rafael Nadal vs. Alex Zverev round three clash, David talks at length to Carlos Moya, who joined Nadal's coaching team at the end of last year. There will be daily editions of The Tennis Podcast throughout the Australian Open, produced in association with Telegraph Sport and Eurosport. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 20, 201739 min

Australian Open Day 4 - Djokovic Dealt Seismic Shock By Istomin; Mouratoglou - Serena Is Still The Best; Nadal Looking Good

Boris Becker, Novak Djokovic’s now former coach, and Mats Wilander, a seven-time Grand Slam title winner, sat in the Eurosport studios, watching the Australian Open demise of the six-time champion.In the Tennis Podcast, following a tumultuous day 4 and one of the biggest upsets in the tournament’s history, presenter Catherine Whitaker, who is part of the Eurosport team, joins David Law and details how the pair reacted to Djokovic’s defeat. Beaten in five sets over nearly five hours by Dennis Istomin, it was Djokovic’s earliest loss in a Grand Slam tournament for nearly nine years. Istomin played the match of his life, but even so, why has Djokovic lost his edge? The Tennis Podcast team try to make sense of it all.The losses of Agnieszka Radwanska and British pair Kyle Edmund and Heather Watson are also discussed, as is the win of Jo Konta, who the team agree is looking more convincing by the day.We also hear from Eurosport pundit and the coach of Serena Williams - Patrick Mouratoglou. He talks... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 19, 201723 min

Australian Open Day 3 - Evans’ Biggest Win; Murray’s ankle concern; Kyrgios’ curious collapse

It started as one of the dullest Grand Slam days in recent memory but ended as one of the most thrilling.In a pulsating evening session, Britain’s Dan Evans won the match of his life by beating Marin Cilic in four sets. At the same time, Nick Kyrgios was beaten in five sets by Andreas Seppi, an exact role reversal from two years ago when Seppi had the two-set lead and Kyrgios responded to win. And just for good measure, Andy Murray turned his ankle while handily ahead against Andrey Rublev.In the day 3 Tennis Podcast from the Australian Open, Simon Briggs (Telegraph Sport) and Catherine Whitaker (Eurosport) join David Law (BBC 5 Live) to assess the Evans win, consider how serious the Murray ankle injury is, and argue about Kyrgios.We hear from both Evans and Murray, and Catherine reveals how the first thing Murray said to her on the court after beating Rublev was ‘did Dan win?’.The team also preview day 4, with three more British players in action, and the return of Serena Williams and Rafael... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 18, 201727 min

Australian Open Day 2 - ‘Djokovic Passes Verdasco Test; 5 Brits in Rd 2; Murray on Lendl, No.1

A couple of weeks ago, Novak Djokovic fought through five match points to beat Fernando Verdasco and reach the Doha final. There was no such drama this time, and although it was far from vintage Djokovic, he did more than enough to go through to round two. In the Telegraph’s Tennis Podcast on day two of the Australian Open, presenters Catherine Whitaker (Eurosport) and David Law (BBC 5 Live) assess Djokovic’s form, and also try to establish what Boris Becker meant when he said the World Number 2 had not worked hard enough late last year. They asked both Djokovic and Becker for clarity, and you can hear those exchanges here. Five British players have reached the second round at the Australian Open for the first time in 30 years (1987), and the team react to the wins of Heather Watson, Jo Konta and Kyle Edmund on day 2.All of the other big stories on day 2 are reviewed and we also look ahead to Andy Murray’s second round match against Andrey Rublev on Wednesday. Catherine’s exclusive interview with... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 17, 201730 min

Australian Open Day 1 - Federer Returns (we have a cool Federer anecdote), Murray toils, Halep crashes, Wawrinka survives

Roger Federer is back after six months away, and Catherine Whitaker has a pretty cool anecdote about what she saw moments before the 17-time Grand Slam champion took to the court against Jurgen Melzer.As for the match, how did he play in his four-set win? What are his prospects for the rest of the tournament? And how did Federer think Andy Murray would be influenced by coming into a Grand Slam tournament for the first time as the World No.1? We hear from him on The Tennis Podcast. Murray won in straight sets, but not comfortably, and there were narrow squeaks for Kei Nishikori and Stan Wawrinka. The latter was a break down in the fifth, and drew gasps from the crowd when he nailed a forehand into a defenceless Martin Klizan at the net. Did he deliberately hit his opponent? David Law, who was commentating for BBC radio, gives his view. On the women’s side of the draw, Simona Halep is out and World No.1 Angelique Kerber looked a little vulnerable. Catherine and David assess what they’ve seen on day... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 16, 201730 min

Australian Open Preview - The Draw!

The Australian Open draw has been made, the Tennis Podcast’s Kickstarter targets have been met, and Catherine Whitaker (Eurosport), David Law (BBC 5 Live) and Simon Briggs (Telegraph) have convened to plot the next two weeks for Andy Murray, Roger Federer, Serena Williams and the rest. Which of the leading players can be most happy with their draws? Murray, who could face Federer in the quarters, or Novak Djokovic, who has Fernando Verdasco for his opener? Wawrinka, who could meet Nick Kyrgios in round 4, or Nadal who might meet Alex Zverev in the third round?On the women’s side, why is everyone so concerned about top seed Angelique Kerber? What does Serena’s route to the final look like? And what did Jo Konta do to deserve her horror draw?It’s all discussed in the latest Tennis Podcast, which is produced in association with Telegraph Sport, and during the Australian Open, Eurosport. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 13, 201754 min

Djokovic/Murray - Now Where Does The Balance Lie? Dimitrov Back From The Wilderness; David's Early Aus Open Prediction

One of the most pulsating first weeks of the tennis season that we can remember concluded with Novak Djokovic edging Andy Murray in the Doha final. What does that do to the balance of power with Murray the World No.1 but Djokovic a six-time Australian Open champion?In Brisbane, Grigor Dimitrov returned from the wilderness to beat three Top-10 players and win his first title in two and a half years. Is he back for good or is this just a token reminder of what might have been?Karolina Pliskova won the women’s event in Brisbane, and that tournament prompted our presenter David Law to make a big, early pick for the Australian Open women’s title. And it isn’t Pliskova. We discuss which rivalry makes for the best matches, and David has a spectacular rant about how Stan Wawrinka never gets picked by anyone to win anything. So does this mean he’s picking him?The Tennis Podcast is presented by David Law (BBC 5 Live, BT Sport) and Catherine Whitaker (Eurosport), and produced in association with Telegraph... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 8, 201749 min

2017 Season Preview; Nigel Sears On Sir Andy Murray, Ana Ivanovic Retirement, Anne Keothavong Fed Cup Captain

Tennis Podcast listeners successfully funded the weekly show to continue in 2017, and so we are back!Catherine and David convene to discuss the seven tournaments that have started the new year with a bang, to talk about Andy Murray’s knighthood, to make their 2017 tennis wishes, and to delve into the Poll Vault.Nigel Sears, former coach of Ana Ivanovic and Daniella Hantuchova, and Murray’s father-in-law, tells us who he will be looking out for on the WTA circuit in 2017. He also gives us his thoughts on the retirement of Ivanovic, how he thinks Anne Keothavong will fair as Great Britain Fed Cup captain, and whether he will be addressing Murray as ‘Sir Andy’.The Tennis Podcast is presented by Catherine Whitaker (Eurosport) and David Law (BBC 5 Live, BT Sport) and produced in association with Telegraph Sport. The podcast’s crowdfunding Kickstarter will end on January 14th at Noon UK time. If it reaches £15,000, the team will produce 45 daily podcasts at the Grand Slam tournaments in 2017. Go to... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 4, 201754 min

Kvitova Horror, Ivanovic Retirement, Coaching Carousel and Federer Is Back

After taking a break for a month, The Tennis Podcast is back for one last episode in 2016, and there is a lot for Catherine and David to cover.The awful knife attack suffered by Petra Kvitova, the retirement of Ana Ivanovic, and the Australian Open withdrawals of Juan Martin Del Potro and Madison Keys kick off the show. The coaching carousel has been spinning like a Rafael Nadal forehand, and Nadal’s new alliance with Carlos Moya is one of the main topics discussed. What to make of the separation of Novak Djokovic and Boris Becker, and Jo Konta and Esteban Carril? And what will Richard Krajicek bring to Milos Raonic? We also talk about Roger Federer’s return, his periscoped practice session, and Andy Murray winning Sports Personality of the Year for a third time. And finally, don’t forget that The Tennis Podcast is running a crowdfunding Kickstarter to try to keep the show going in 2017. Please go to Kickstarter.com and search Tennis Podcast if you would like to contribute. Direct link -... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 30, 201649 min

The Tennis Podcast 2017

After 260 episodes and five years of The Tennis Podcast, we are asking for your help to keep it going in 2017, and to make it bigger and better than ever. To find out how, go to: https://goo.gl/NLHqvq Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dec 1, 20164 min

Davis Cup Ecstasy For Argentina; 2016 Awards

One of the most memorable Davis Cup finals in history, a 0-2 comeback from the one and only Juan Martin Del Potro, and a first triumph in Argentina's history.Catherine Whitaker (Eurosport) and David Law (BBC 5 Live, BT Sport) spend half of The Tennis Podcast talking about all of that, and the other half debating who warrants the Tennis Podcast 2016 Awards.Who is the player of the year? What was the biggest shock of 2016? Who had the biggest breakthrough? And who lays dubious claim to Meltdown of the Year?Those and many more are discussed on the penultimate Tennis Podcast of 2016. The Tennis Podcast is a weekly, downloadable tennis radio show which is produced in association with Telegraph Sport. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 28, 201644 min

Davis Cup Final Preview - Argentina Seek To End Excruciating Wait; Karlovic Seeks Fairytale Finishd Episode

Argentina have been trying to win the Davis Cup by BNP Paribas for more than a hundred years, and after four failed final attempts, they will be hoping that this is their year.Ahead of their final against Croatia in Zagreb, the Tennis Podcast team of David Law and Catherine Whitaker get together to discuss their chances, the late selection of 37-year-old Ivo Karlovic - the oldest man to have played singles in a final since the 20's, and the journey of Juan Martin Del Potro.Who will win? It's discussed, with predictions from presenters and listeners.And before signing off, they reminisce about great Davis Cup finals from the past. This edition of The Tennis Podcast is produced in association with Telegraph Sport and sponsored by The Davis Cup by BNP Paribas. www.daviscup.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 24, 201633 min

Murray Conquers Nemesis Djokovic To Seal World No.1 Ranking For 2016

After Novak Djokovic dominated the first half of the year, and Andy Murray the second, the two met in the final match of the ATP season, with the World No.1 ranking at stake.Murray triumphed, and afterwards Catherine Whitaker and David Law talked it over inside The 02 on the Tennis Podcast.Where was the match won and lost? How did Murray dig out that performance when he must have been running on fumes?What happened to Djokovic after he had looked so good 24 hours earlier against Kei Nishikori? Will his coaching relationship with Boris Becker and Marian Vajda continue in 2017?It's all discussed on the latest Tennis Podcast, which is produced in association with Telegraph Sport. eg65pxp6 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 21, 201627 min

ATP Finals Preview - Murray's Horror Draw; Djokovic To Rediscover Form? Federer's Awards. Again.

Andy Murray arrives to the 02 Arena as the favourite to win the title for the first time, but he's been handed a horror draw.With a couple of days until the event starts, Catherine Whitaker (Eurosport) and David Law (BBC 5 Live, BT Sport) get together to discuss the chances of Murray winning, Djokovic returning to form, and someone else upsetting all the odds. Catherine pretty much goes with the obvious, but David has gone out on a limb. What do our listeners say in Poll Vault?We also hear about what David thinks of the ATP's latest round of awards, including the stick he took for commenting on the sportsmanship of the year gong. And if Catherine and David could have any coach in the world to guide their own feeble talents, who would they choose?The Tennis Podcast is produced in association with Telegraph Sport.eg65pxp6 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 11, 201645 min

Andy Murray: World No. 1

In his 12th year as a tennis professional, after winning multiple Grand Slam titles, the Davis Cup and two Olympic gold medals, Andy Murray has finally forced his way past Novak Djokovic to top the world rankings.A few hours after Murray underlined his new status by winning in Paris Bercy, David Law and Catherine Whitaker got together to reflect on a monumental achievement.What turned Murray into serial contender to the No. 1 player in the world? How big an impact did his coaching team of Ivan Lendl and Jamie Delgado have? Is there any asterisk next to Murray given the injuries to Federer and Nadal, and the decline of Djokovic’s form? And what of the future? Are we now at the start of an Andy Murray ‘era’?It’s all discussed, as is the current form and demeanour of Djokovic, heading into the ATP World Tour Finals at the 02 next week.The Tennis Podcast is produced in association with Telegraph Sport. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 7, 201653 min

WTA Finals - Cibulkova Strikes Gold; Andy Murray Closes On No.1; Chris Evert Interview

Dominika Cibulkova told the Tennis Podcast that winning the WTA Finals was the ‘happiest day of my life’, and the pod team convened afterwards to discuss it.With David in Dubai airport on route back from Singapore, and Catherine in the UK, they chatted about a week of thrilling matches in which there were a number of surprises.Plus, as Andy Murray continues to close on World Number One, Catherine and David discuss whether he will he get there before the end of the year.There’s also a big interview with the great Chris Evert. She tells David about her surprise at Angelique Kerber reaching World No.1, how impressed she’s been with Jo Konta, and how many more Slams she thinks Serena Williams will win. Asked about her relationship with Martina Navratilova, she gives a special insight into what it was like being the only two players left in the locker-room at the end of tournaments. The Tennis Podcast is produced in association with Telegraph Sport. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 1, 201641 min

WTA Finals Preview - Kerber, Halep, Muguruza, Keys all join us; Tie Break Tens; Andy Murray on World No 1

A star studded line up of players from the WTA Finals (and Andy Murray) join David (who is in Singapore) and Catherine (who has just got back from Vienna Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oct 24, 201648 min

Sharapova Decision, Kyrgios Suspension, Serena Pull-out, Djokovic Burnout, No.1 Murray (?)

Since Catherine Whitaker and David Law last convened on the Tennis Podcast, Maria Sharapova’s sentence has been reduced by nine months, Andy Murray has won 20 sets out of 20 to move to within sight of World No.1, and Novak Djokovic has continued to struggle. On the day we recorded this edition, Serena Williams withdrew from the WTA Finals because of her ongoing shoulder issues, and Nick Kyrgios was fined and suspended for ’tanking’ in Shanghai, with that suspension being reduced to 3 weeks provided he sees a sports psychologist. So, there was plenty to talk about. The Tennis Podcast is produced in association with Telegraph Sport. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oct 17, 201645 min

Marcus Willis - 'I don't want to be remembered for losing second round at Wimbledon'.

He was the talk of Wimbledon for the first few days. The man who nearly quit the sport until his girlfriend told him not to, who entered pre-qualifying, won six matches, and made it into the main draw before bowing out to Roger Federer in round two.But as Marcus Willis tells David Law on the Tennis Podcast, he doesn't want to remembered for losing in the second round at Wimbledon.The journey to achieve more starts here, with masses of off-court training, a qualifying wild card at the Erste Bank Open 500 in Vienna, and an invitation to compete for a winner-take-all cheque of $250,000 against Andy Murray, Jo Wilfried Tsonga, Dominic Thiem, Tommy Haas and Goran Ivanisevic.The Tennis Podcast is produced in association with Telegraph Sport. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oct 10, 201626 min

Wuhan Review & Beijing Preview; Road to Singapore/London Maths & Permutations

David & Catherine meet at a new London eaterie to discuss a barnstorming week in Wuhan for Petra Kvitova and how it affects the Race to Singapore, which is really hotting up. As well as an update on the podcast's newly assigned mascot (Rosie the dog), the Tennis Podcast team also review another #NextGen title on the ATP Tour and analyse Novak Djokovic's withdrawal from Beijing. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oct 2, 201649 min

Osaka, Zverev - Future No.1's; The Davis Cup Debate; A Surprising Guest

Two weeks since the US Open podcasts and Catherine Whitaker has finally returned, joining up with David Law to review debut career titles for Alex Zverev and Lucas Pouille, a run to the final in Tokyo by Naomi Osaka, and to preview Wuhan.Catherine comes out firing, predicting that both Osaka and Zverev will be World No.1's.There's much Osaka/Zverev insight and excitement, much bewilderment at Dominic Thiem continuing to play every week, and a big debate about the proposed changes to the Davis Cup.The show also features a very surprising guest. So surprising, the presenters knew nothing about it until the guest appeared on the show. The Tennis Podcast is produced in association with Telegraph Sport. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sep 26, 201649 min

Introducing The Tennis Podcast

The Tennis Podcast is a downloadable tennis radio show presented by BBC Radio 5 Live and BT Sport tennis commentator David Law and Eurosport presenter Catherine Whitaker.This is a 2 minute flavour to introduce you to the sound of the show, the type of guests you will hear and the reason that David refuses to play Catherine at tennis.The Tennis Podcast is a weekly show throughout the year, with daily editions during Grand Slam tournaments and other big events.Since its launch in May 2012, more than 250 episodes have been produced, and the show has been downloaded more than 2 million times. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sep 21, 20162 min

Davis Cup Semis - Argentina Break British Hearts; Face Croatia In Final

Juan Martin Del Potro came close to hanging up his tennis racquet for good 18 months ago. In Glasgow he did what no man had ever done before - beating Andy Murray on home territory in the Davis Cup, as Argentina eventually knocked out the defending champions Great Britain. After his win over Murray, he spoke to BBC 5 Live commentator and Tennis Podcast presenter David Law about the experience. And, moments after Leonardo Mayer sealed victory with a win over Dan Evans, Law joined Murray’s former coach Miles Mclagan to discuss where the tie had been won and lost, o consider how long Murray might need away from the game to return energised, and to look ahead to the Davis Cup final between Argentina and Croatia. The Tennis Podcast is produced in association with Telegraph Sport. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sep 18, 201611 min

US Open Day 14 - Sensational Stan Wins Slam No.3; Djokovic's Body Fails Him In Final

After two gruelling weeks in which Stan Wawrinka stood a point from defeat against Britain's Dan Evans, and spent more than 20 hours on the court, it was Novak Djokovic's body that ultimately broke down in the final. A pulsating four-set tussle was won by Wawrinka - his third Grand Slam title - and afterwards the Telegraph's Tennis Podcast team got together to work out where it went right for Stan, and wrong for Novak. Eurosport presenter Catherine Whitaker and BBC 5 Live commentator David Law discussed the comments of Mats Wilander, in which the seven-time Grand Slam title winner said peak Wawrinka is the most exciting player in the world. And they wondered what has gone wrong with the body of Djokovic over the past few months since he won the French Open. Has he just overdone it over the past couple of years? The Tennis Podcast is produced in association with Telegraph Sport. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sep 12, 201617 min

US Open Day 13 - Kerber Wins US Open In Classic; Jamie Murray/Bruno Soares Doubles Champions; Catherine/David Wage War With New York Bus Driver

Eight months ago, Angelique Kerber was match point down in the first round of the Australian Open. Eight months on, having saved that match point, she is the Australian Open and US Open champion, the World No.1, a Wimbledon runner-up, and an Olympic silver-medalist. After a classic 3-set tussle between Kerber and Karolina Pliskova, the Tennis Podcast’s team of Eurosport presenter Catherine Whitaker, BBC Radio 5 Live commentator David Law and Telegraph tennis correspondent Simon Briggs caught up to review it all while racing for the bus back to Manhattan. How has Kerber gone from solid Top Ten player to World No.1 inside a year? What next for Pliskova after her impressive wins over Venus and Serena Williams, and narrow defeat in the final? And who will win the men’s final between Novak Djokovic and Stan Wawrinka? The podcast team debate it all, and review a second Grand Slam doubles title in 2016 for Jamie Murray. The men’s singles final will be broadcast live on... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sep 11, 201612 min

US Open Day 12 - Djokovic vs. Wawrinka final; What on earth was Gael Monfils Doing? 250th Episode, 2 Millionth Download;

Novak Djokovic will take on Stan Wawrinka in the final of the US Open on Sunday, but the main question that needed answering on the Tennis Podcast on Friday night was: what on earth was Gael Monfils doing? Playing in his first Grand Slam semifinal for eight years, and with a 0-12 record against Djokovic, Monfils appeared to adopt ‘Rope-a-dope’ tactics, trying to mess Djokovic around to a point where he might lose his form. It didn’t work. Accusations of ‘tanking’ - not trying - were levelled from various quarters, but Monfils fiercely denied them. So what did happen? Presenters Catherine Whitaker (Eurosport) and David Law (BBC 5 Live) describe the extent of the humidity felt in New York during the semifinals, and try to imagine what it would be like to play in. During the podcast, Wawrinka walks past and he looks every inch the seasoned Grand Slam finalist after reaching the third of his career. He is yet to lose one. This is the 250th edition of The Tennis Podcast, which... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sep 10, 201623 min

US Open Day 11 - Angelique Kerber - World No.1; Serena Shocked And Crocked; Pliskova Breaks Through

With a single double-fault, Serena Williams handed Karolina Pliskova a passage through to her first Grand Slam final, the World No.1 ranking to Angelique Kerber, and dashed her own chances of going ahead of Steffi Graf in the all-time list of Grand Slam title holders. Afterwards, David Law (BBC 5 Live) and Catherine Whitaker (Eurosport) got together on the daily US Open Telegraph Tennis Podcast to discuss a couple of hours that shifted the tennis world on its axis. Where was the Williams-Pliskova match won and lost? What caused Williams to double-fault at match point? Could her nerve be going? How big a factor was the knee injury that she revealed afterwards. Was it poor form to mention it? All discussed on the Tennis Podcast, as well as an assessment of the rise of Kerber, and a preview and predictions of the men’s semifinals. The Tennis Podcast is produced in association with Telegraph Sport. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sep 9, 201619 min

US Open Day 10 - Murray Falls To Nishikori; Del Potro Dream Over; Serena Wins Classic

Catherine Whitaker pre-warned that Kei Nishikori and Michael Chang had been plotting the downfall of Andy Murray on the practice court, and they got what they wanted in the US Open quarterfinals. Murray had lost over five sets only twice in 8 years - both of them to Novak Djokovic - but for once he dipped into his enormous reserves and found nothing there. Afterwards, Catherine and David Law got together to discuss the match, Murray’s struggle to deal with some of the distractions on the court, and the possible reasons. They also cover the wins of Karolina Pliskova and Serena Williams, as the semifinals approach. The Tennis Podcast is produced in association with Telegraph Sport. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sep 8, 201620 min

US Open Day 9 - Wozniacki Sets Up Kerber Semi; Djokovic Through To Semis After 2 Complete Matches; Monfils 15 for 15

Caroline Wozniacki has looked anything but a Grand Slam finalist this year, but her excellent form has continued at the US Open and she will clash with Angelique Kerber on Thursday. Catherine Whitaker and David Law took to the 5 Live commentary box to talk about it, and to preview Andy Murray's quarterfinal with Kei Nishikori. Catherine reveals some insight from a Nishikori/Chang practice session, and how Ivan Lendl threw them off the court, and then David reflects on a night-session that was all a bit of damp squib. Novak Djokovic reached the semifinals of the US Open after his third opponent of the fortnight failed to finish. The Tennis Podcast is produced in association with Telegraph Sport. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sep 7, 201624 min

US Open Day 8 - Murray Destroys Dimitrov; Del Potro Fairytale Continues; Venus Loses Heartbreaker

24 hours after Novak Djokovic sent out a statement of intent with a straight sets humbling of Kyle Edmund, Andy Murray responded with one of the most ruthless wins of his career against Grigor Dimitrov. David Law commentated for BBC 5 Live on Murray’s 6-1, 6-2, 6-2 win, Catherine Whitaker interviewed Murray on-court straight afterwards for Eurosport, and then Law and Whitaker got together to compare notes on The Tennis Podcast. Having reached 23 successive last 16 rounds at Grand Slams, was this Murray’s best performance ever at that stage of a major tournament? Will he and Djokovic be able to recreate those performances over the next few days to meet in the final on Sunday? What of Murray’s quarterfinal opponent Kei Nishikori? How did he look against the giant serving of Ivo Karlovic? And what of sentimental favourites Venus Williams and Juan Martin Del Potro? How did they get on? The Tennis Podcast is produced in association with Telegraph Sport. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sep 6, 201611 min

US Open Day 7 - Is Djokovic Back To His Best? Nadal Falls To Pouille In Instant Classic; Konta Hits The Wall

Was it Novak Djokovic returning to his all-conquering self, or Kyle Edmund struggling to cope with the occasion that led to a fairly lopsided scoreline in their last 16 US Open clash? In the Telegraph’s latest Tennis Podcast, David Law (BBC 5 Live) and Catherine Whitaker (Eurosport) don’t entirely see eye to eye on the subject. Jo Konta had a difficult day in the fourth round, losing in straight sets to Anastasia Sevastova. Did she just hit the wall or was it a huge missed opportunity? More disagreements ensue. Rafael Nadal’s US Open came to an end at the hands at Lucas Pouille of France. Who? The Tennis Podcast team explain, and describe how he took his chance, while also remembering a Nadal forehand that might give the Spaniard nightmares. The Tennis Podcast is produced in association with Telegraph Sport. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sep 5, 201621 min

US Open Day 6 - Excellent Evans Inconsolable; Stan Suffers But Survives; Serena, Venus Soar; Murray Labours

One point away from the biggest win of his life, third round prize money already in his pocket, and finally fulfilling his obvious promise, Dan Evans was the talk of the town in New York on Saturday, even though he did eventually go down. Catherine Whitaker (Eurosport), David Law (BBC 5 Live) and Simon Briggs (Telegraph) assembled for their daily Tennis Podcast chat at Flushing Meadows, to review the day, and the 25 year old from Birmingham was the man they started with. Where did his match with Stan Wawrinka turn? How would he take the defeat, and what about his future? It’s all discussed on the latest show, and we hear from Evans himself, talking about the moment his attitude changed for the better off the court when he was ranked 772 in the world. The podcast team also review the performances of the Williams sisters in reaching the last 16, the trials and tribulations of Andy Murray in edging out Paolo Lorenzi of Italy, and they look ahead to a stunning Sunday. Jo Konta... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sep 4, 201626 min