The Inside-In Tennis Podcast

TennisNow writer Chris Oddo joins the podcast to discuss the epic 2026 US Open, which has featured triumphs, heartbreaks, emotional wins and tears of both joy and sadness. Oddo recaps Ben Shelton's thrilling win over Carlos Alcaraz, and explains why it's the biggest American men's tennis win in decades. The writer also dives into Frances Tiafoe snatching victory from the jaws of defeat, and his emotional embrace with Alex Michelsen. Oddo analyzes how the top four seeds all advanced to the women's Semifinal round, which include the two-time defending champion Aryna Sabalenka. The journalist gives his thoughts on Coco Gauff's comeback win over Andreeva, Elena Rybakina's win that clinched the World No. 1 ranking, and whether it's time for Jessica Pegula win her first major title. And Oddo proviews all the semifinal matches, which includes an All-American showdown between Shelton and Tiafoe. Hosted by Mitch Michals. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Nick Monroe joins the podcast on-site from The US Open to dive into all the action and drama from Flushing Meadows. Monroe breaks down Carlos Alcaraz's impressive form in his return, and looks at how Ben Shelton can rise to the challenge in their upcoming quarterfinal match. The broadcaster also explains how Frances Tiafoe and Alex Michelsen have elevated their games in NYC, and assesses Alexander Zverev's level as he looks to claim his first US Open title. Monroe also weighs in on the women's draw, where Qinwen Zheng rallied from 5-0 down in two consecutive matches, with the latter being a tremendous upset win over Iga Swiatek. The former player discusses Elena Rybakina's sustained brilliance in her win over Naomi Osaka, Aryna Sabalenka's game rounding into form, and Linda Noskova's tremendous short-term memory. And Monroe explains how Americans Coco Gauff, Jessica Pegula and Emma Navarro are racking up the wins at The US Open. Hosted by Mitch Michals. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Barstool Hubbs joins the podcast for some early US Open reactions, where the much anticipated return of Carlos Alcaraz continues to capture the headlines. Hubbs evaluates Alcaraz's play, and looks at if the American men are ready to end the 23-year slam drought. The online personality breaks down Ben Shelton's dynamic game, Taylor Fritz flying under the radar, and whether Tommy Paul or Frances Tiafoe can have their moment in New York. Hubbs also recaps the early results in the women's draw, where Coco Gauff and Iga Swiatek are continuing to shine on the hard courts. The Barstool Sports writer weighs in on Jessica Pegula's chances to finally capture a major, Aryna Sabalenka's mission to repeat as champion, and Mirra Andreeva's highs and lows. And Hubbs lists his favorite Round 3 matchups as the 2026 US Open rolls along. Hosted by Mitch Michals. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Steve Flink joins the podcast to discuss a wide range of topics from the 2026 Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony to the start of The US Open, and his new excellent book about the greatest names in American tennis history. Flink, who was inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame in 2017, recaps this year's festivities which saw Roger Federer and Mary Carillo take their place in tennis eternity. He also explains why his new book: "The Immortals of American Tennis," provides an all-encompassing look at the greatest and most impactful names the USA has produced in this sport. The author details his writing process, the emphasis on the pre-open era stars, and what readers can expect to learn as they dive into the pages. Flink also looks at the beginning of the 2026 US Open, which saw Novak Djokovic lose his opening match to Mariano Navone in five agonizing sets. The journalist recaps the match, details the biggest obstacles in Djokovic's way, and predicts where the Serbian legend might go from here. And Flink gives his thoughts on the other early storylines from Flushing Meadows, which included Carlos Alcaraz's return to the court, Stefanos Tsitsipas' huge upset win over Arthur Fils, and the decision to start the Venus Williams/Sofia Kenin match after midnight. Hosted by Mitch Michals. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Zachary Cohen joins the podcast to preview The 2026 US Open, with a thorough breakdown of both the men's and women's singles draws. The men's draw is highlighted by the return of Carlos Alcaraz, and the guys discuss his tricky path to defending his title at Flushing Meadows. Cohen examines Ben Shelton's rocky road that includes a potential fourth round showdown with Arthur Fils, and looks at whether Taylor Fritz, Frances Tiafoe or another American truly contend for the crown. The VSIN writer evaluates 24-time major champ Novak Djokovic's chances, and dishes out some of his favorite sleepers in the men's bracket. In the women's draw, Cohen predicts whether Aryna Sabalenka can return to her trophy-winning form from a year ago, and examines Jessica Pegula's favorable path the final stages of the tournament. Cohen assesses Coco Gauff and Iga Swiatek's routes to more US Open glory, Amanda Anisimova and Naomi Osaka's title chances, and Alexandra Eala's ability to truly arrive in New York City. The fellas dish out their favorite first round matchups, and predict who will stand alone as the 2026 US Open champions. Hosted by Mitch Michals. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Leif Shiras joins the show to recap the Cincinnati Open, where Coco Gauff and Arthur Fils claimed the trophies with some sizzling tennis. Shiras explains what propelled Gauff back to the winner's circle, how finalist Jessica Pegula can rebound at Flushing Meadows, and whether Iga Swiatek, Aryna Sabalenka or another set of contenders will find that magic at the US Open. The Tennis Channel broadcaster analyzes Fils' improved game, looks at Frances Tiafoe's strengths and weaknesses, and goes in depth on how American Brandon Nakashima has had a dream summer in 2026. Shiras also looks ahead to next week's US Open, which will feature Carlos Alcaraz, but not World No. 1 Jannik Sinner. The commentator reacts to Alcaraz's decision to return from a four-month wrist injury at a major, and shares his thoughts on Sinner's difficult decision to miss the action in New York with a knee injury. And Shiras dives into Novak Djokovic's chances, Stan Wawrinka not receiving a Wild Card, and Roger Federer's upcoming Hall of Fame induction on this episode. Hosted by Mitch Michals. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Amy Lundy joins the podcast to discuss the uncertainty involving Jannik Sinner's US Open status, and how the entire ATP orbit hangs in the balance. Lundy looks at Carlos Alcaraz's bold plan to return from his four month injury at a major tournament, Novak Djokovic's chances heading into The Big Apple, and whether Americans like Ben Shelton, Taylor Fritz or Frances Tiafoe have a chance to shine on home soil. Lundy also looks at the storylines in Cincinnati, where Iga Swiatek continues her winning ways. The journalist evaluates Aryna Sabalenka's form, Amanda Anisimova's resurgence, and Marta Kostyuk's breakthrough season. And Lundy explains why youngsters like Rafael Jodar and Iva Jovic are destined for big things in tennis. Hosted by Mitch Michals. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Veteran coach Brad Stine joins the podcast for a wide-ranging chat about his work coaching Tommy Paul, and some of the biggest storylines in the men's game as tennis takes over North America. Stine reacts to Ben Shelton's second straight title at the Canadian Masters, and explains why he's so dangerous on the court. The coach dives into the depth of American tennis, the closeness of this group of US men, and what makes rising player Learner Tien so special. Stine also sheds light on his long-running partnership with Tommy Paul, and recaps the highs and lows of the 2026 season. He goes in depth about how Paul bounced back after heartbreak in Miami to win his first clay court title in Houston, and explains why "Tommy Paul 7.0" is the best version yet. The coach also discusses several other topics including Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner's health creating an opening for the field at The US Open, Iga Swiatek's joy returning in her title-run in Toronto, and what he really thinks of the crowded and confusing tennis schedule. Hosted by Mitch Michals. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Tennis broadcaster Russ Thaler joins the podcast to dive into all the drama at The National Bank Open in Canada, where opportunity is calling some new and old faces in the sport. Thaler reacts to World No.1 Aryna Sabalenka's loss to Ekaterina Alexandrova, and examines whether Elena Rybakina will seize the top ranking. The commentator also explains why he's got faith in slam champions Iga Swiatek and Coco Gauff, evaluates Naomi Osaka's chances to return to a major-winning form, and shares his thoughts on the biggest phenomenon in tennis that is Alexandra Eala. Thaler also weighs in on the top storylines in the men's game, which included the shocking news that Jannik Sinner will not compete in Cincinnati. The broadcaster weighs in the length of the schedule, the importance of Carlos Alcaraz to the sport, and whether Ben Shelton will repeat as champion up north. And Thaler looks at the crop of young players looking for the 1000 level title in Canada, which include Rafael Jodar, Arthur Fils and Jakub Mensik. Hosted by Mitch Michals. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Tennis broadcaster Candy Reid returns to the podcast to recap the Washington DC Open, where Alexandra Eala won her maiden title and dispatched some of the most talented names in the game to do so. Reid explains why Eala is so good for tennis, why her Filipino support is amazing, and why her game could keep elevating to that of a major champion. The broadcaster also reacts to Taylor Fritz capturing the men's crown in the US capital, and finalist Rafael Jodar's consistency in his rookie year on the ATP. Reid highlights all the action from Canada, where Ben Shelton looks to defend his title. The commentator looks at Elena Rybakina's form, Marta Kostyuk's athleticism, and Jessica Pegula's chances to add that elusive first major. And Reid reacts to the news that Carlos Alcaraz will not play in Cincinnati, as the talented Spaniard's US Open title defense hangs in the balance. Hosted by Mitch Michals. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Athletic's Senior Tennis Writer Matthew Futterman joins the show to discuss the release of his new book, which takes a look at the true price of pursuing your dreams at the highest level in tennis. Futterman explains the idea for the book came to be, and why tennis is a uniquely beautiful yet torturing game that has led many of the best players to retire well before their skills have distinguished. The journalist expands on several of the central characters and themes in the book, which include the American male tennis hopefuls, Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner's quest for immortality, Novak Djokovic in the final stages of a legendary career, and the role of tennis parents in the pro game. "The Cruelest Game: Chasing Greatness in Professional Tennis," is available everywhere on August 4. In this episode Futterman takes you behind the scenes of writing this book, and sheds light on how the current ATP and WTA elite are truly wired. Hosted by Mitch Michals. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Podcast host and journalist Mike McIntyre joins the show to preview the National Bank Open, with the entire tennis world heading to Canada for their prestigious 1000 level combined event. McIntyre explains how he became hooked on the sport, and shares some of his favorite memories from witnessing the tournament and covering it for 18 years. The co-host of "Match Point Canada" also examines the absence of Jannik Sinner and Novak Djokovic from this year's event, while highlighting the many stars that will be competing this year. McIntyre shares some of his early observations from the grounds in Toronto where they women are competing, which include Amanda Anisimova reuniting with her coach, and Mirra Andreeva's powerful yet light-hearted approach to practice. The local Canadian also gives his thoughts on Felix Auger-Aliassime's coaching change, Bianca Andreescu's optimism, and the buzz surrounding the arrival of Alexandra Eala at the National Bank Open. And McIntyre answers two poignant questions: Is Jessica Pegula an honorary Canadian? And how do the Mounties select who gets to pose for the trophy? Hosted by Mitch Michals. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Nobody brings the excitement to tennis broadcasting like Robbie Koenig, and he joins the podcast to get you primed and ready for the North American hard court swing. Koenig recaps Austrian teen Lilli Tagger's maiden title, and explains how she's learned from none other than Jannik Sinner in her pursuit of greatness. The commentator also recaps last week's results on tour and explains what Ben Shelton needs to improve in order to keep climbing in the men's game. Koenig covers a variety of topics including the mental block that Alex De Minaur faces against Stefanos Tsitsipas, and the brutal injury luck that continues to plague Jack Draper. And Koenig looks ahead to the action in Washington D.C. that features a blockbuster R1 clash between Rafael Jodar and Arthur Fils, hometown hero Frances Tiafoe, and more of the game's elite as they begin their march towards to the US Open. Hosted by Mitch Michals. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Former WTA Top 25 player Christina McHale joins the podcast for a wide-ranging chat about the pro game, and how she was able to end her career on her own terms. McHale explains why she decided to make one final tennis push, and what she learned from her return to the court. The 2012 Olympian also dives into the depth on the WTA, and explains why Iva Jovic impressed her firsthand when they practiced together. McHale dives into topics such as Carlos Alcaraz's return from the same injury she had, and explains what that rehab process is really like. She also recaps the titles won by Stefanos Tsitsipas, Andrey Rublev and Barbora Krejcikova this past weekend, and explains why Maria Sakkari's run to the finals in Athens was very special. And McHale reacts to all the recent tennis weddings before setting her sights on the race to the US Open. Hosted by Mitch Michals. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Sportscaster Adnan Virk joins the show to chat about his unabashed enthusiasm for tennis, and to remind one and all about Roger Federer's greatness. Virk dives into Federer's appearance at this year's Wimbledon and his upcoming induction into the International Tennis Hall of Fame, and engages in a lively debate about the greatest male players in tennis history. The MLB Network broadcaster evaluates Carlos Alcaraz & Jannik Sinner's credentials, and laments on Sinner's victorious performance over a very game Alexander Zverev in the Wimbledon Final. It's a unique and passionate conversation with Virk, who weighs on and everything from the ATP doubles dilemma to the current affordability of watching tennis live. Virk shares his thoughts on the women's game, Canadian tennis hopefuls, and his excitement to witness Federer's exhibition doubles match at this year's US Open. And as an expert cinephile, Virk discusses what's trending in the world of movies. Hosted by Mitch Michals. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jannik Sinner and Linda Noskova claimed the titles at Wimbledon, and ESPN betting analyst Pamela Maldonado is here to break down the thrilling conclusion to the major tournament on this episode. Maldonado explains why Sinner has the most complete game in the world, how he was able to turn the page after a disastrous Paris, and the areas Alexander Zverev has taken tremendous strides in his game and confidence. The analyst also examines Novak Djokovic's forthright comments after his semifinal loss, and where the Serbian legend goes from here. And Maldonado dives into Carlos Alcaraz's absence in the game, why he's sorely missed, and when we might see the 7-time major champion back. Maldonado also recaps the thrilling women's final that saw Noskova defeat her Czech compatriot Karolina Muchova in roller-coaster of a match. The ESPN betting expert highlights the keys to Noskova's victory, and examines whether Muchova can finally capture a major title in the future. And Maldonado highlights her other favorite moments from Wimbledon, which included strong showings from Naomi Osaka, Arthur Fery and Grigor Dimitrov. Hosted by Mitch Michals. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

TennisNow writer Chris Oddo joins the podcast to dive into the final push at the 2026 Wimbledon Championships, where everything is on the line for those remaining in the field. Oddo recaps Karolina Muchova's emotional win over Coco Gauff to reach the finals, and explains how the dynamic player was able to conquer a foe who has given her nothing but problems. The journalist also breaks down how Linda Noskova topped Marta Kostyuk in the other semifinal, and highlights the special skills that make the 21-year old one a threat to everyone on the grass. And Oddo points out what to expect from an all Czech championship match in London. On the men's side, it's another showdown between Novak Djokovic and Jannik Sinner in a major semifinal. Oddo reacts to Djokovic's marathon win over Felix Auger-Aliassime, and ponders how the Serbian legend will be feeling physically in the next round. The writer dives into Sinner's level this Wimbledon, his road to success on the grass, and the keys that will determine this epic encounter between two titans in tennis. Oddo also shares his thoughts on Alexander Zverev's ability to carry over success from Roland Garros to Wimbledon, British Wild Card Arthur Ferry's improbable run to the Final 4, and how the dust might settle on championship Sunday at The All England Club. Hosted by Mitch Michals. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Alexandra Stevenson joins the show to breakdown all the drama at Wmbledon, where we will crown a different women's champion for the 10th straight year. Stevenson recaps Naomi Osaka's impressive win over Aryna Sabalenka, and explains how the Japanese superstar has returned to her top form. The former Wimbledon semifinalist also looks at a pending showdown between Americans Jessica Pegula and Coco Gauff, and dives into where each player has as advantage on the grass. Stevenson shares her thoughts on Karolina Muchova's style of play, Marta Kostyuk's athleticism, and how Linda Noskova has leveled up in 2026. On the men's side, Stevenson shares her thoughts on Novak Djokovic's sustained brilliance at 39 years old. The former pro examines whether Felix Auger-Aliassime can challenge the Serbian legend, and whether Jannik Sinner can reach his top gear at these Wimbledon championships. And Stevenson assesses Taylor Fritz's chances to go all the way at The All England Club or if Alexander Zverev, Flavio Cobolli or British Wild Card Arthur Ferry can keep their Wimbledon dreams alive. Hosted by Mitch Michals. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Hall of Famer journalist Steve Flink returns to the podcast to break down all the action at Wimbledon, where the tennis is supreme at The All England Club. Flink assesses the early performances of Jannik Sinner and Novak Djokovic, and laments on Ben Shelton's shocking upset loss. The writer discusses Taylor Fritz's chances to make a run at the title, Grigor Dimitrov's surprising win, and his appreciation for Daniil Medvedev's raw honesty in defeat. Flink goes in depth about the women's draw, where Naomi Osaka is playing some elite tennis. The journalists weighs her chances against World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka, and looks at whether Sabalenka and Rybakina can return to their apex as the tournament progresses. And Flink looks at some of the great matches on tap, which include Iga Swiatek vs Alexandra Eala, Jessica Pegula vs. Iva Jovic, and Dimitrov vs. former Wimbledon finalist Matteo Berrettini. Hosted by Mitch Michals. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

VSIN tennis writer and podcast host Zachary Cohen joins the show to dive into all the action from Day 1 at Wimbledon, where the top two men's favorites dug deep to advance. Cohen recaps the gritty wins by Jannik Sinner and Novak Djokovic, and analyzes their paths to glory at The All England Club. The journalist weights in on the American male hopefuls, Joao Fonseca's grass potential, and Alexander Zverev's first major act since winning Roland Garros. Cohen also debates which women are legitimate Wimbledon contenders, and explains why this could be Jessica Pegula's time to capture a slam title. He looks at Aryna Sabalenka's hurdles in London, Coco Gauff and Iga Swiatek's chances, and whether Mirra Andreeva can pick up right where she left off in Paris. And Cohen makes some predictions about who will be standing tall when the dust settles at The Wimbledon Championships. Hosted by Mitch Michals. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.