Tales from Tennis

In this third on-site episode from the Lexus Ilkley Open, Sam Jacot and Jerome Coombe sit down with a range of Top 150 players competing during the grass-court season, bringing together stories from behind the scenes of the tennis world as the road to Wimbledon continues.Featuring Darwin Blanch, Lulu Sun, Viktorija Golubic, Arthur Gea, Dane Sweeny, Harmony Tan and August Holmgren, the episode explores the journeys, experiences and moments that shape life on Tour.The guests reflect on memorable Wimbledon runs, breakthrough moments at Grand Slams and what it is like competing on some of the biggest stages in tennis. Along the way, they share stories involving some of the sport’s biggest names, including Serena Williams and Carlos Alcaraz, while also discussing career-defining matches, favourite practice partners and the unseen realities of life on Tour that fans rarely get to hear about.In the first Ilkley special, Sam and Jerome spoke to the people who help bring the tournament to life in Ilkley, including tournament director Rik Smith and broadcaster Abigail Johnson. In the second Ilkley special, they chatted with the British players ahead of Wimbledon. Both episodes are live in the feed.🚨 Stay tuned for a special episode from Eastbourne on Wednesday 1 July, featuring Taylor Fritz. Subscribe now. 📲🎙️ Our background episode & our special in-focus 20th episode are live in this feed if you’d like to learn more about who we are and why we created Tales from Tennis.Follow us on social media:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/talesfromtennis/X: https://x.com/TalesFromTennisThe podcast is independently produced and not affiliated with or endorsed by the ATP.

In this special on-site episode of Tales from Tennis, Sam Jacot and Jerome Coombe head to the Lexus Ilkley Open to uncover what it really takes to run a professional tennis tournament.While fans see the matches, the atmosphere and the drama on court, there is a huge team working behind the scenes to make the event happen. Throughout the week, Sam and Jerome spoke to the people who help bring the tournament to life, including tournament director Rik Smith, broadcaster Abigail Johnson, British player Charlie Broom, the event's lead stringer, a groundsman responsible for maintaining the grass courts, hospitality staff and fans attending the tournament.Together, they provide a fascinating insight into the many moving parts that keep an ATP Challenger and WTA 125 event running smoothly, from preparing courts and stringing rackets to welcoming players, broadcasters and spectators through the gates.This episode offers a unique look at the unseen side of tennis and the people whose work often goes unnoticed but is essential to the success of every tournament.We also recorded a host of player interviews during our time in Ilkley, which will be released across the next two Wednesdays as the grass-court season builds towards Wimbledon. In the meantime, listeners can also find exclusive content from the event on our Instagram, including a fun Q&A with comedian Josh Berry, practice-court moments and quick-fire questions with ATP Next Gen star Darwin Blanch.There is plenty more from Ilkley still to come on Wednesday 17th & 24th June.🎙️ Our background episode & our special in-focus 20th episode are live in this feed if you’d like to learn more about who we are and why we created Tales from Tennis.Follow us on social media:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/talesfromtennis/X: https://x.com/TalesFromTennisThe podcast is independently produced and not affiliated with or endorsed by the ATP.

In this 20th episode of Tales from Tennis, Sam Jacot and Jerome Coombe turn the microphones on themselves to share the stories behind the podcast and how they ended up covering tennis full time.The pair reflects on their journeys into tennis media, from first tournaments and nerve-filled early interviews to surreal moments alongside some of the biggest names in the sport, including Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, Jannik Sinner, Carlos Alcaraz and Andy Murray.The conversation dives into the reality of life covering tennis behind the scenes, with chaotic travel days, fun interviews, quirky press conference moments and the unexpected experiences that come with working around the sport week after week.From funny tour stories to the journey to this point, this episode offers listeners a closer look at the people behind the microphones before the show returns to its regular format next week.🚨 Stay tuned for another special guest from the tennis world on Wednesday 3 June. Subscribe now. 📲Follow us on social media:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/talesfromtennis/X: https://x.com/TalesFromTennisWatch highlights and analysis from across the tennis world at The Tennis Pass: https://www.youtube.com/@TheTennisPassThe podcast is independently produced and not affiliated with or endorsed by the ATP.

In this episode, Sam Jacot and Jerome Coombe sit down with Russell Fuller to explore what it’s really like covering the biggest moments as the BBC’s tennis correspondent for the past 13 years.Fuller reflects on his experiences following some of the sport’s biggest stars, including Andy Murray, Serena Williams, Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz, and shares insight into the frantic nature of life at Grand Slams.The conversation dives into the pressure of live broadcasting, the challenge of delivering fair and balanced journalism in high-profile moments, and what it was like covering the dramatic in Australia. Fuller also discusses the unique atmosphere around British tennis during the Murray era, the joy of working alongside former players in commentary boxes and the moments that have stayed with him most throughout his career.🎙️ Our introductory background episode is live in this feed if you’d like to learn more about who we are and why we created Tales from Tennis.🚨 Stay tuned for another special guest from the tennis world on Wednesday 20 May. Subscribe now. 📲Follow us on social media:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/talesfromtennis/X: https://x.com/TalesFromTennisWatch highlights and analysis from across the tennis world at The Tennis Pass: https://www.youtube.com/@TheTennisPassThe podcast is independently produced and not affiliated with or endorsed by the ATP.

In this episode, Sam Jacot and Jerome Coombe sit down with Arthur Fils' coach Ivan Cinkus to go inside the rise of the Frenchman and what it takes to build one of the most exciting young players in the game.Cinkus reflects on Fils’ impressive return from injury, detailing the work behind the scenes that has fuelled his recent surge, including a title in Barcelona and deep runs in Miami and Indian Wells. He shares insight into the mentality required to come back from setbacks, the discipline Fils brings to his training, and even reveals the light-hearted incentive that could earn him a well-deserved holiday if he reaches the latter stages at Roland Garros.The conversation also takes listeners courtside, with Cinkus describing what it’s really like coaching in high-pressure moments, including saving match points in Miami, and the communication between player and coach during matches. Cinkus also discusses the impact of Goran Ivanisevic joining the team and how their collaboration is helping shape Fils’ development at the top level.🎙️ Our introductory background episode is live in this feed if you’d like to learn more about who we are and why we created Tales from Tennis.🚨 Stay tuned for another special guest from the tennis world on Wednesday 6 May. Subscribe now. 📲Follow us on social media:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/talesfromtennis/X: https://x.com/TalesFromTennisWatch highlights and analysis from across the tennis world at The Tennis Pass: https://www.youtube.com/@TheTennisPassThe podcast is independently produced and not affiliated with or endorsed by the ATP.

In this episode, Sam Jacot and Jerome Coombe sit down with renowned tennis photographer Corinne Dubreuil, who has spent more than 35 years capturing some of the sport’s most iconic moments. From Grand Slam finals to intimate behind-the-scenes access, Dubreuil shares what it takes to document the game at the very highest level.She reflects on her close working relationship with Rafael Nadal, including her book Nadal - Iconic, and discusses her experiences photographing some of the biggest names in tennis such as Roger Federer and Amélie Mauresmo.The conversation also explores her favourite images, proudest achievements, and what it’s like being courtside for the sport’s biggest moments, including access to locker rooms after major finals. Dubreuil offers a fascinating insight into the day-to-day life of a professional tennis photographer, as well as advice for the next generation looking to break into the industry.🎙️ Our introductory background episode is live in this feed if you’d like to learn more about who we are and why we created Tales from Tennis.🚨 Stay tuned for another special guest from the tennis world on Wednesday 22 April. Subscribe now. 📲Follow us on social media:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/talesfromtennis/X: https://x.com/TalesFromTennisFollow Corinne Dubreuil on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cocodubreuilphoto/Watch highlights and analysis from across the tennis world at The Tennis Pass: https://www.youtube.com/@TheTennisPassThe podcast is independently produced and not affiliated with or endorsed by the ATP.

In this episode, Sam Jacot and Jerome Coombe sit down with former top-10 junior and Wake Forest University player Charlie Robertson. Charlie shares his journey through the junior ranks into college tennis, offering an inside look at why the US college pathway is becoming an increasingly attractive route for aspiring professionals.The Scot reflects on his experiences training with countryman Andy Murray, including conversations with the former World No. 1 and the advice he has taken from those moments. Charlie also discusses hitting with some of the biggest names in the game, including Carlos Alcaraz, Alex de Minaur and Tommy Paul, and what stood out about their level and mindset.The conversation also explores his role as a sparring partner at the Next Gen ATP Finals, the realities of competing in college tennis at Wake Forest and how he is balancing development, education and ambition as he looks ahead to his professional career.🎙️ Our introductory background episode is live in this feed if you’d like to learn more about who we are and why we created Tales from Tennis.🚨 Stay tuned for another special guest from the tennis world on Wednesday 8 April. Subscribe now. 📲Follow us on social media:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/talesfromtennis/X: https://x.com/TalesFromTennisWatch highlights and analysis from across the tennis world at The Tennis Pass: https://www.youtube.com/@TheTennisPassThe podcast is independently produced and not affiliated with or endorsed by the ATP.

In this episode, Sam Jacot and Jerome Coombe sit down with broadcaster and journalist Candy Reid. Candy lifts the lid on what it’s really like interviewing some of the biggest stars in tennis, including Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner, and shares her behind-the-scenes perspective on their personalities away from the spotlight.She also dives into the current state of both the men’s and women’s game, exploring the rise of the next generation and the players shaping the future of the sport.🎙️ Our introductory background episode is live in this feed if you’d like to learn more about who we are and why we created Tales from Tennis.🚨 Coming up on Wednesday 25th March, Sam and Jerome will be joined by a coach. Subscribe now. 📲Follow us on social media:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/talesfromtennis/X: https://x.com/TalesFromTennisListen to Candy's podcast Diary of a Professional Tennis Coach: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/diary-of-a-professional-tennis-coach/id1747181401Watch highlights and analysis from across the tennis world at Winners Circle Tennis: https://www.youtube.com/@WinnersCircleTennis/videosThe podcast is independently produced and not affiliated with or endorsed by the ATP.

In this episode, Sam Jacot and Jerome Coombe sit down with Australian tennis player Tristan Schoolkate. Tristan reflects on his experience facing Jannik Sinner at the Australian Open, what it felt like stepping onto Rod Laver Arena and what he learned from competing against one of the world’s best on the sport’s biggest stage.He also discusses his win against rising star Joao Fonseca, the realities of travelling the professional tour, and the unique experience of sharing houses with fellow Australian players earlier in his career, offering an honest look at the grind, camaraderie and sacrifices behind life on tour.🎙️ Our introductory background episode is live in this feed if you’d like to learn more about who we are and why we created Tales from Tennis.Follow us on social media:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/talesfromtennis/X: https://x.com/TalesFromTennisThe podcast is independently produced and not affiliated with or endorsed by the ATP.

In this episode, Sam Jacot and Jerome Coombe sit down with tennis content creator and author Bastien Fachan. Bastien shares his perspective on tennis culture, from the role of fashion and personal expression in the sport to how iconic looks and traditions shape the way fans engage with the game. He also discusses writing his book on the era-defining dominance of Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic, reflecting on the stories, rivalries and debates that defined a generation of tennis.Drawing on his experience building a global social following, Bastien explains his approach to curating digital tennis content and what makes posts resonate with audiences. He explores how creativity, storytelling and personality are shaping the modern tennis conversation, while reflecting on travelling to the sport’s biggest events and the fan experience at majors.🎙️ Our introductory background episode is live in this feed if you’d like to learn more about who we are and why we created Tales from Tennis.🚨 Coming up Wednesday 25th February, Sam and Jerome will be joined by the former Tennis Correspondent for The Times. Subscribe now. 📲Follow us on social media:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/talesfromtennis/X: https://x.com/TalesFromTennisBastien Fachan’s Book: https://www.amazon.com/Federer-Nadal-Djokovic-lhistoire-Big-ebook/dp/B0BRTWS5BH?ref_=ast_author_dp&th=1&psc=1The podcast is independently produced and not affiliated with or endorsed by the ATP.

In this episode, Sam Jacot and Jerome Coombe sit down with tennis analyst and commentator Gill Gross. Gill breaks down his process for analysing matches, the most interesting and telling stats in tennis and how he approaches predictions at the highest level of the sport.He also shares his thoughts on how tennis is evolving digitally, how the game is being consumed by fans today, and where analysis, media and content creation are heading in the future, drawing on his experience working with Tennis Channel and building one of the sport’s leading analytical platforms.🎙️ Our introductory background episode is live in this feed if you’d like to learn more about who we are and why we created Tales from Tennis.🚨 Coming up Wednesday 11th February, Sam and Jerome will be joined by one of the sport’s most successful umpires. Subscribe now. 📲 Follow us on social media: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/talesfromtennis/ X: https://x.com/TalesFromTennis Gill Gross YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@gillgrossThe podcast is independently produced and not affiliated with or endorsed by the ATP.

In this second episode, Sam Jacot and Jerome Coombe sit down with Wimbledon mixed doubles champion and ATP Tour titlist Sem Verbeek to discuss college tennis, what it is like to win Wimbledon and his matches with Jannik Sinner. Sem also shares his thoughts on the key to a strong doubles partnership, along with other fun stories from life as a tennis player.🎙️ Our introductory background episode is live in this feed if you’d like to learn more about who we are and why we created Tales from Tennis.🚨 Coming up Wednesday 28th January, Sam and Jerome will be joined by one of the sport's biggest journalists, an episode you won’t want to miss. Subscribe now.📲 Follow us on social media:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/talesfromtennis/X: https://x.com/TalesFromTennisThe podcast is independently produced and not affiliated with or endorsed by ATP.

What really goes on in professional tennis? In this short intro episode, reporters Sam Jacot and Jerome Coombe introduce Tales from Tennis, a new podcast exploring life on the road, the people who shape the sport and the stories fans rarely hear. They break down the idea behind the show and tease some of the names set to appear in upcoming episodes.📲 Follow us on social media:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/talesfromtennis/X: https://x.com/TalesFromTennisThe podcast is independently produced and not affiliated with or endorsed by ATP.