TennisWorthy

Patrick McEnroe and Chris Bowers host a special episode celebrating the 50th anniversary of wheelchair tennis in 2026. They are joined by legendary Dutch Hall of Famers Chantal Vandierendonk and Monique Kalkman to discuss the remarkable evolution, history, and global impact of the sport.

Following a 1983 car accident, rising tennis talent Chantal Vandierendonck made a pioneering shift to wheelchair tennis, going on to dominate the sport as a five-time Paralympic medalist, nine-time major champion, and long-time World No. 1. Retiring with a 254-51 record, she made history in 2014 as the first female wheelchair tennis player inducted into the Hall...

Argentine tennis legend and Hall of Famer Gabriela Sabatini sits down with Chris Bowers, reflecting on her illustrious career in the late 1980s and 1990s. From winning the 1990 US Open and legendary battles with icons like Steffi Graf to launching her own signature fragrance, Sabatini pulls back the curtain on her remarkable journey. Tune in as she reveals how she overcame crippling childhood shyness, found joy in the chaos of global travel, and ultimately walked away from the professional stage on her terms at age 26 to protect her passion.

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Eight-time Grand Slam champion Mats Wilander pulls back the curtain with Chris Bowers on his legendary career, sharing candid insights into what truly defines a Hall of Famer. From winning Roland-Garros at just 17 to navigating the intense pressures of reaching World No. 1, Wilander reflects on the pivotal moments, tactical shifts, and mindset that shaped his journey. He opens up about the legendary 1982 sportsmanship moment that defined his legacy, how his unique upbringing built unmatched focus, and his deep commitment to preserving the integrity of the game.

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17-time doubles major champion, two-time Olympic gold medalist and Hall of Famer Gigi Fernandez joins host Chris Bowers in this vault episode. From her roots in Puerto Rico to reaching the top of global tennis, Gigi shares how she overcame early doubts, mastered the mental game, and navigated high-stakes rivalries. She also reflects on post-retirement life and her work with the International Tennis Hall of Fame.

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Tennis' greatest legends not only mastered the physical skills of the game, but the mental fortitude and tactics necessary to reach the top. Patrick McEnroe and neurologist Dr. Brian Hainline discuss the critical connection between mental health, sleep, and athletic performance. Drawing from his medical career and collegiate tennis background, Dr. Hainline highlights why mental wellness must be treated with the same priority as physical recovery.

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Filmed on court in London ahead of the Laver Cup, Patrick McEnroe caught up with the team captains: Hall of Famers Andre Agassi and Yannick Noah. Together, the former legends reflect on their career-defining achievements, the emotional weight of their Hall of Fame inductions, and what it means to represent Team Europe and Team World under Rod Laver's name.

Noah recalls how Arthur Ashe discovered him as a child in Cameroon and changed his life, while Agassi shares how completing the Career Grand Slam allowed him to play with newfound freedom.

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The Mac Zone took the Fame Fest stage at the International Tennis Hall of Fame's Induction Celebration, with Blair Henley and Patrick McEnroe hosting Hall of Famer John McEnroe for a lighthearted chat.

The McEnroe Brothers reflect on their early days growing up and playing at the Douglaston Club in Queens, sharing memories of their long-time friend and Class of 2026 Hall of Fame inductee, Mary Carillo. They discuss the electric atmosphere in Newport, playing alongside icons like Roger Federer, and how the physical demands and playing styles of professional tennis have evolved over the generations. Additionally, the...

Two of the greatest doubles players of all time, Hall of Famers Pam Shriver and Mark Woodforde, return to the TennisWorthy Podcast, this time bringing their weath of expertise to confront the current state of professional doubles tennis. Moderated by Chris Bowers, the discussion dives into how a format loved by club-level players has become a "forgotten child" on the pro tour, overshadowed by the physical demands and financial dominance of modern singles play. Woodford and Shriver share candid insights on first-round walkovers, the loss of court artistry, TV scheduling conflicts, and whether rule changes or player-led marketing can...

Hall of Famer Stefan Edberg joined emcee Nick McCarvel and host Patrick McEnroe live from the Fame Fest stage at the Induction Celebration in Newport, Rhode Island, just one day before Roger Federer and Mary Carillo take their place as the Class of 2026.

The Swedish legend reflected with on his legendary serve-and-volley career, his classic Wimbledon rivalries with Boris Becker, and Sweden's golden era of tennis. Looking at the modern game, Edberg explains how today's equipment and baseline power would force him to adapt his playing style. He also offers behind-the-scenes insights into his two-year stint coaching...

The final chapter of The Road to Newport revisits a farewell that transcended the final match. The 2022 Laver Cup was a celebration of sportsmanship, friendship, and a career that left an indelible mark on the game.

The Road to Newport is a series revisiting the defining moments that shaped Roger Federer's legendary career leading up to his induction into the International Tennis Hall of Fame this August. All video episodes of the Road to Newport can be viewed on the International Tennis Hall of Fame's YouTube and social media channels.

Earlier this year, Patrick McEnroe sat down with Mary Carillo - friend, colleague and Class of 2026 Hall of Fame Inductee in the Contributor Category. With Mary's induction nearing, the TennisWorthy Podcast is re-sharing this insightful chat highlighting her impact and legacy.

Mary and Patrick reflect on their shared childhood roots in Douglaston, New York, her playing career, and her successful transition into groundbreaking sports journalism and broadcasting. She also shares memorable stories about key influences on her career, including Billie Jean King and Bud Collins, while expressing deep gratitude for the Hall of Fame honor.

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Legacy extends far beyond trophies. Through the Federer Foundation, Roger Federer's commitment to service, gratitude, and creating opportunities for children across South Africa showcases his global impact beyond the tennis court.

The Road to Newport is a series revisiting the defining moments that shaped Roger Federer's legendary career leading up to his induction into the International Tennis Hall of Fame this August. All video episodes of the Road to Newport can be viewed on the International Tennis Hall of Fame's YouTube and social media channels.

With nearly five years since his last major title, Roger Federer entered the 2017 Australian Open physically and mentally prepared for the highest level. In the Road to Newport, he looks back at a comeback built on patience, resilience, and the belief that greatness can always find a way.

The Road to Newport series revisits the defining moments that shaped Federer's legendary career as he approaches induction into the International Tennis Hall of Fame. All video episodes can be viewed on the International Tennis Hall of Fame's YouTube and social media channels.

Roger Federer had conquered tennis's biggest stages, but one final chapter remained before completing the Career Grand Slam. In the installment of #RoadtoNewport, Roger Federer looks back on his 2009 Roland-Garros victory. After years of coming close, the title brought relief, emotion, and the feeling that he had finally done it.

The Road to Newport is a series revisiting the defining moments that shaped Roger Federer’s legendary career leading up to his induction into the International Tennis Hall of Fame this August. All video episodes of the Road to Newport can be viewed on the International Tennis Ha...

As a kid, Roger Federer dreamed of lifting the Wimbledon trophy. In Episode 2 of the International Tennis Hall of Fame's Road to Newport series, relive his unforgettable breakthrough at Wimbledon in 2003, where years of belief, sacrifice, and determination led to the first major title of his history-making career.

The Road to Newport series revisits the defining moments that shaped Federer's legendary career as he approaches induction into the International Tennis Hall of Fame. All video episodes of the Road to Newport can be viewed on the International Tennis Hall of Fame's YouTube and social media channels.

There are moments that change everything. The International Tennis Hall of Fame's Road to Newport series will take you behind the milestones that shaped Roger Federer's remarkable career as he approaches Hall of Fame induction this August.

In the first installment, we go back to 2001 when at age 19, Roger Federer walked onto Centre Court to face one of his role models in Pete Sampras, and walked off having announced himself to the tennis world. It was the start of a journey that would shape tennis history.

All video episodes of the Road to Newport can...

Patrick McEnroe and Chris Bowers are joined again by former WTA player and current commentator Jill Craybas to dissect an unforgettable fortnight at Wimbledon.

The team breaks down Jannik Sinner’s spectacular title defense against a resilient Alexander Zverev, analyzing how his modernized movement on grass secured his fifth major title. They also celebrate the historic women's singles tournament, highlighting Linda Noskova’s emotional victory and incredible mental fortitude, alongside Karolína Muchová's brilliant, creative play.

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Patrick McEnroe sits down with Hall of Famer, former world No. 1 and insightful commentator Jim Courier at Wimbledon to celebrate the legacy of Roger Federer at his most successful tournament. The two dive into what made Federer so dominant on grass, exploring his flawless footwork, masterclass slice backhand, and tactical genius.

Patrick and Jim also share unique insights into how Federer’s hidden work ethic and unmatched mental perspective allowed him to bounce back from tough losses with an incredible "lightness of being."

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For Hall of Famer Virginia Wade, the 16th time was the charm at Wimbledon. Nearly 50 years on, the most recent British woman to win the singles title at The Championships reflects on sealing her crowning achievement during Queen Elizabeth II's Silver Jubilee in 1977.

This episode is part of the International Tennis Hall of Fame's TennisWorthy short-form series. View more TennisWorthy stories at tennisfame.com/tennisworthy.

With grass court season well underway, the TennisWorthy Podcast dives into the science and meticulous care behind Wimbledon’s legendary courts with Neil Stubley, Head of Courts and Horticulture at the AELTC. Marking his 31st championships, Stubley reveals to Chris Bowers what it takes to maintain the tournament’s iconic "living canvas," sharing everything from his unexpected career pivot as a professional chef to how his team manages high-stakes tournament schedules.

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Isabelle Musy, journalist for Radio Tele Suisse who has interviewed Roger Federer more than perhaps any other reporter, joins the podcast in the lead-up to Wimbledon. With Chris Bowers, Musy shares intimate reflections on Federer’s journey, tracing his path from a "highly promising kid" at the Swiss National Junior Tennis Center to a global icon. Ultimately, Musy offers listeners a behind-the-scenes look at the genuine human being behind the legendary athlete.

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Patrick McEnroe reconnects with Olympic gold medalist and former world top 10 player Marc Rosset for a candid reflection on the evolution of Swiss tennis. Before Roger Federer became a global icon, Rosset was one of the few players putting Switzerland on the tennis map. The two revisit their shared history, tracing Federer’s journey from a relaxed, PlayStation-loving teenager to the legendary champion who redefined the sport.

Rosset provides rare, behind-the-scenes insights into Federer’s unique mindset, his legendary work ethic with physical coach Pierre Paganini, and the pivotal moments—both on and off the court—that shaped h...

Few players attuned themselves to the physical demands of tennis like Hall of Famer Jim Courier, especially on clay. The two-time Roland-Garros champion details the commitment to fitness that transformed him from a promising junior into a 4-time major champion.

Discover how his legendary conditioning allowed him to dominate the toughest five-set matches and ultimately earn his place in the International Tennis Hall of Fame.

This episode is part of the International Tennis Hall of Fame's TennisWorthy short-form series. View more TennisWorthy stories at tennisfame.com/tennisworthy.

Roland-Garros is here, and we take an in-depth look at the rich history and evolution of the year's second major. Chris Bowers sits down with François Thomazeau—former Reuters Paris Bureau sports editor and past president of the French Tennis Federation's Press Commission—to explore how a cozy "garden party" venue was transformed into a premier global powerhouse.

The conversation highlights the monumental impact of Hall of Famer Philippe Chatrier, the visionary administrator who modernized the stadium, launched talent scouting programs, and reshaped France’s sports culture. Thomazeau shares intimate reflections on his decades spent covering the tou...

Patrick McEnroe welcomes 25-time major champion, youngest ever world No. 1 and Hall of Famer Martina Hingis to her TennisWorthy Podcast debut. The duo reconnect in a fascinating chat, exploring Martina’s abilities as "chess master on a tennis court".

This episode dives deep into the meteoric rise of a teenage prodigy whose ability to anticipate shots was unlike anything the tennis world had ever seen. Martina reflects on her unique journey, from hitting balls with a wooden racquet in her living room at age two, to becoming world No. 1 at age 16 and eventually, one of the all-time gr...

Patrick McEnroe catches up with friend and Hall of Famer Pam Shriver from Rome, where she's coaching as part of Yonex's Mindset and Performance Program. In a wide ranging chat, Shriver reflects on her meteoric rise from a 16-year-old US Open finalist to one of the greatest doubles players in history.

She dives into her new "startup" coaching role with Yonex, emphasizing the critical importance of a growth mindset in today’s power-driven game. From navigating the locker room of the Original 9 era to her recent advocacy for player safeguarding, Shriver shares candid insights on how tennis ha...

Patrick and Chris are joined by Swiss author and journalist Simon Graf to discuss his career covering the enduring legacy of Roger Federer. The trio explores Federer’s remarkable journey, from his days as a ball boy for one of Patrick's matches in Basel, to becoming a global icon who redefined the game by blending old-school technique with modern power.

The conversation highlights Federer’s extraordinary character, specifically his genuine interest in others and his ability to remain grounded despite his "circus-like" fame. Graf shares personal anecdotes about Federer’s authenticity, while McEnroe and Bowers reflects on his "s...

This week, we remember the legacy and impact of Dr. Jim Loehr, a groundbreaking performance psychologist in tennis, who passed last week at age 83. Last year, Patrick McEnroe and Dr. Loehr had an insightful conversation on mental toughness and the whole person behind elite performance, which we're resharing today.

Dr. Loehr's contributions to tennis were profound and lasting. Over more than three decades, he worked alongside some of the sport's most respected coaches and guided thousands of professional and junior players. His landmark first book, Mental Toughness Training for Sports, features a foreword by Arthur Ashe, and...

Patrick McEnroe sits down with renowned journalist and author Christopher Clarey to discuss the legacy of Roger Federer. Drawing from his book, The Master, Clarey explores Federer’s transformation from a volatile, "hotheaded" teenager into a global cultural icon defined by grace and grit.

The conversation delves into the pivotal figures behind Federer’s success—including Peter Carter, Pierre Paganini, and his wife, Mirka—while examining his legendary rivalries with Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic. Clarey also reveals Federer’s philosophy for longevity: the ability to "clench and unclench" the fist to avoid burnout. It's insightful look at the res...

In this inspiring episode, Patrick McEnroe sits down with one of the individuals who created and formalized wheelchair tennis: Hall of Famer Brad Parks.

Following a life-altering skiing accident, Parks turned his competitive spirit toward tennis. Hear how he collaborated with recreational therapist Jeff Minnebraker to build a lightweight aluminum chair. Parks details the development of the "two-bounce rule", tweaking to push a wheelchair while holding a racket, and laying the groundwork for an adaptive sport.

Parks shares the remarkable journey of the game’s evolution—from the early days of playing in heavy hospital whee...

In this special edition of the Tennisworthy Podcast, Patrick McEnroe and Chris Bowers highlight and celebrate 2026's 50th anniversary of the sport of Wheelchair Tennis. Chris brights insightful intergenerational conversations with three of the sport's most decorated athletes: Diede de Groot, Daniela Di Toro, and Gordon Reid.

The guests reflect on the dramatic evolution of the game, from playing in everyday collapsible wheelchairs to the elite athleticism seen today at all four Grand Slams. They discuss the "Dutch dominance" inspired by legend Esther Vergeer, the importance of visibility for women in disability sports, and the shift toward...

What makes a rivalry truly legendary? Patrick McEnroe and Chris Bowers welcome Joan Solsona, Marca's lead tennis journalist based in Barcelona, to dissect the rivalry origins and legacy of Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal at the Sunshine Double.

The trio explores the unique "season of its own" known as the Sunshine Double: winning back-to-back titles at the BNP Paribas Open and the Miami Open. They dive into Federer’s remarkable 2017 resurgence, where he overcame his "stubbornness" to finally master the high-bouncing backhand that had long been his Achilles' heel against Nadal.

The group explores how th...

The TennisWorthy Podcast welcomes Class of 2026 inductee and broadcasting pioneer Mary Carillo to the show, as her good friend Patrick McEnroe sat down with legend in Indian Wells to discuss her upcoming induction into the Hall of Fame as a contributor.

Carillo shares memories and stories of her tennis roots in Douglaston, Queens, where she grew up alongside the McEnroe family. She reflects on her transition from a professional player—whose career was cut short by knee injuries—to a pioneering journalist known for her direct style and insightful storytelling.

The conversation covers her "say yes"...

The TennisWorthy Podcast celebrates Women’s History Month by delving into the pioneering era of the 1920s. Patrick McEnroe and Chris Bowers profile Hall of Famer Kathleen "Kitty" McKane Godfree, a multi-sport athlete whose "fighting spirit" propelled her to seven major titles and five Olympic medals.

Through archival interviews and insights from her daughter-in-law, Helen Godfree, we explore Kitty’s unconventional childhood—including a childhood bicycle trek from London to Berlin—and the societal shifts after World War I that revolutionized women's athletic apparel. We also recount her storied rivalries with fellow Hall of Famers Suzanne Lenglen and Hele...

After reaching a career-high ranking of No. 2 in the world in 2002, Tommy Haas endured an injury setback, followed by another injury setback, and yet another. For years, he worked his way through injury and other obstacles. Ultimately, Tommy's resilience resulted in a career to be proud of, with an exclamation point against one of the all-time greats. Today, Tommy is in his tenth year as the Tournament Director of the BNP Paribas Open.

This episode is part of the International Tennis Hall of Fame's TennisWorthy short-form series. View more TennisWorthy stories at tennisfame.com/tennisworthy.

Patrick McEnroe sits down with Hall of Famer Charlie Pasarell to uncover the remarkable origin story of the BNP Paribas Open, which kicks off this week in Indian Wells. Pasarell, one of the founders and first leaders of the tournament, details his journey from professional player to visionary architect of the "Blockbuster Plan," a concept that transformed a struggling desert event into what many now call the "fifth Grand Slam".

Discover how Pasarell’s commitment to a fan-first "garden party" atmosphere—complete with shopping, fine dining, and world-class facilities—redefined the professional tennis experience. From navigating the 100-year...

Patrick McEnroe sits down with acclaimed journalist and author Christopher Clarey to explore the legendary career of Roger Federer. Drawing from his book, The Master, Clarey provides a rare look at Federer’s transformation from a "hotheaded" teenager into a global cultural icon.

The duo discusses the "internal mastery" that defined Federer’s game, his legendary rivalries with Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic, and the mental resilience hidden beneath his elegant style. Clarey also shares personal insights into the pivotal figures behind Federer’s success, including his wife Mirka and fitness trainer Pierre Paganini. From the heartbreak of the...

In this second installment of our special Black History Month series, Patrick McEnroe and Chris Bowers explore the enduring impact of tennis icon Arthur Ashe. Fifty years since his historic Wimbledon victory, we examine how his principles as a scholar, humanitarian, and activist continue to shape the sport today.

Former ATP pro Bryan Shelton joins to share personal stories of overcoming prejudice in the American South, the current state of the sport and his journey coaching his son, current ATP World No. 9 Ben Shelton. We also hear from Yolanda Hester, Oral History Project Director of the Arthur...

February is Black History Month in the United States and this month, the TennisWorthy Podcast will explore the impact and legacies of trailblazing Black tennis athletes. In this first episode, Patrick McEnroe and Chris Bowers discuss Hall of Famer Althea Gibson and Ora Washington, who broke barriers and faced the harsh realities of segregation.

First dive into the life of Althea Gibson, the first person of color to win a Grand Slam title. Gibson biographer and historian Ashley Brown discusses Gibson's global influence, her mentorship under Dr. Eaton and Dr. Johnson, and her role as a precursor...

The TennisWorthy Podcast comes to you from Melbourne Park, where history was made during the Australian Open. Immediately following the men’s final, hosts Patrick McEnroe and Chris Bowers were joined by guest Jill Craybas, former WTA player and current commentator, to break down Carlos Alcaraz and Elena Rybakina’s titles down under.

At just 22, Alcaraz became the youngest male to complete a career Grand Slam, overcoming Novak Djokovic in a high-stakes final. The trio discusses Alcaraz’s tactical adjustments, his playful "non-verbal interchange" with the ESPN commentary booth, and Novak Djokovic’s remarkable resilience at this point in...