Thats right Ground Pass went viral on TikTok because of the popularity of the Alex Eala run at the Miami Open. Let’s talk about it.

In this episode, Nick and Anastasia discuss the Miami Open, its unique atmosphere, and the ongoing challenges of scheduling due to rain delays. They compare the Miami Open to Indian Wells, highlighting the differences in appeal and experience for fans. The conversation shifts to emerging talents like Jakub Mensik and Alex Eala, who are making waves in the tennis world. They also touch on the dominance of Aryna Sabalenka and Emma Raducanu's journey, before transitioning to the upcoming clay season and the excitement surrounding it.

Relevant Links:

• Ground Pass “mini” pod about the differences between the Miami Open & Indian Wells: https://pod.fo/e/2bda20
• Courtside with Issac Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/courtsidewithisaac?igsh=MmNkNHBicGRtNTBh

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Tournament Overview

02:29 The Miami Open vs. Indian Wells

05:20 Venue Experience and Accessibility

08:06 Comparing Miami Open to Other Tournaments

11:01 Ticketing and Logistics

13:46 Fan Experience and Atmosphere

19:35 Cultural Impact and Growing Markets

23:08 Indian Wells Semifinalists fall early

24:52 Jakub Mensik goes under the rader

29:22 The rise of Alex Eala and tennis in the Philippines

37:16 The Arthur Fils Corner

41:02 Emma Raducanu's Journey and Potential

46:49 Iga Swiatek vs. Aryna Sabalenka: The Miami Open Final

52:55 Celebrating Doubles: The Sunshine Double Achievers

55:45 Transitioning to Clay: The Upcoming Tournaments

01:04:37 Players of the Fortnite: Celebrating Talent

Connect with Us:

• Follow Ground Pass on Instagram and Bluesky/Twitter for real-time updates.
• Subscribe on Substack for bonus episodes, behind-the-scenes coverage and exclusive content.
• Got thoughts on this week’s tennis news? Let us know in the comments or send us a message!

Enjoy the episode and stay tuned for more from Ground Pass!

Subscribe to Our Substack at - https://groundpass.substack.com

Visit Our Website at - www.groundpasspodcast.com

Email us at - [email protected]

Follow us for daily updates on Social:

Threads: https://www.threads.net/@ground_pass

Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/groundpass.bsky.social

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ground_pass

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@GroundPass

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@groundpasspodcast

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Ground Pass was accredited for its first 1000 Level event. Which is a big deal. Thanks for following us on this adventure in this episode of the podcast we dissuss the main differences between Indian Wells and the Miami Open. 

We also touch on the tennis for the first week which saw all the ATP Indian Wells semi finalists lose their first matches - Carlos Alcaraz, Jack Draper, Holger Rune & Daniil Medvedev all had early exits.

The almost love story of Alex Eala and Coleman Wong gave us life.

Emma Raducanu gets to her first WTA 1000 quaterfinals and Mirra Andreeva & Amanda Anisimova have words.

Relevant Links:

• Ground Pass on Substack for all the Behind the Scenes content: https://groundpass.substack.com
• Skyview ride with tennis players: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DHjR1uJusHo/?igsh=cXBqNGczM2V2ZXU3
• Things to do arounf the grounds of the Miami Open: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DHhIcg0Pfso/?igsh=ajNsbTk4Yncwd3hu

Chapters:

00:00 - Intro

02:35 - Ground Pass was accredited for its first 1000 level event.

04:54 - The Difference between Indian Wells and the Miami Open

26:29 - The 1st week of tennis at the Miami Open

37:16 - Outro 

Connect with Us:

• Follow Ground Pass on Instagram and Bluesky/Twitter for real-time updates.
• Subscribe on Substack for bonus episodes, behind-the-scenes coverage and exclusive content.
• Got thoughts on this week’s tennis news? Let us know in the comments or send us a message!

Enjoy the episode and stay tuned for more from Ground Pass!

Subscribe to Our Substack at - https://groundpass.substack.com

Visit Our Website at - www.groundpasspodcast.com

Email us at - [email protected]

Follow us for daily updates on Social:

Threads: https://www.threads.net/@ground_pass

Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/groundpass.bsky.social

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ground_pass

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@GroundPass

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Indian Wells is done and dusted for 2025 and what an experience it was, Anastasia joins Nick to talk through the 2nd week of the event and the semifinal groups. We also touch in the Arizona Challenger which is a must visit for next year.

Relevant Links:

• Ground Pass on Substack for all the Behind the Scenes content: https://groundpass.substack.com

Chapters

00:00 Welcome to the Groundpass: A Professional Peak

03:43 The problem with the 2nd week of Indian Wells

08:10 Budgeting for Indian Wells: Tips and Tricks

11:16 Comparing Tournament Prices: Indian Wells vs. Other Events

16:43 Women's Semi-Finals: Highlights and Anticipation

17:34 Mira Andreeva's Transformation

20:11 Aryna Sabalenka's Dominance

22:17 Coco Gauff's Struggles and Resilience

26:06 Emerging Stars: Jack Draper and Holger Rune

29:09 Carlos Alcaraz: The Pressure of Expectations

32:18 Daniel Medvedev's Comeback and Celebration

34:56 Doubles Dynamics and Player Partnerships

37:04 Dream Run in Doubles Tennis

40:28 Emerging Stars at the Arizona Challenger

44:54 Miami Open: A Platform for Future Talents

46:32 Player of the Fortnite Highlights

50:49 Closing Thoughts and Future Prospects

Connect with Us:

• Follow Ground Pass on Instagram and Bluesky/Twitter for real-time updates.
• Subscribe on Substack for bonus episodes, behind-the-scenes coverage and exclusive content.
• Got thoughts on this week’s tennis news? Let us know in the comments or send us a message!

Enjoy the episode and stay tuned for more from Ground Pass!

Subscribe to Our Substack at - https://groundpass.substack.com

Visit Our Website at - www.groundpasspodcast.com

Email us at - [email protected]

Follow us for daily updates on Social:

Threads: https://www.threads.net/@ground_pass

Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/groundpass.bsky.social

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ground_pass

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@GroundPass

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We’re wrapping up our time at Tennis Paradise! Recorded on-site at Indian Wells, this episode of Ground Pass On-Site is all about what it’s really like to experience the BNP Paribas Open from the grounds. We break down the best (and worst) parts of being at the tournament, share tips and tricks for anyone planning to attend next year, and try to define what makes Indian Wells Tennis Paradise. Plus, we’re joined by special guests Will Boucek, Vansh, and Brian Bradley for their insights and takeaways from the tournament. Don’t miss this mid-way look at Indian Wells 2025!

Relevant Links:

• Will Boucek on X - https://x.com/willboucek?s=21&t=34KFRaMxpc-93mq_1EOI7A
• Vansh on X - https://x.com/vanshvtennis?s=21&t=34KFRaMxpc-93mq_1EOI7A
• Brian Bradley on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/coachbtv?igsh=bmVsN216NDAzZnd1

Connect with Us:

• Follow Ground Pass on Instagram and Bluesky/Twitter for real-time updates.
• Subscribe on Substack for bonus episodes, behind-the-scenes coverage and exclusive content.
• Got thoughts on this week’s tennis news? Let us know in the comments or send us a message!

Enjoy the episode and stay tuned for more from Ground Pass!

Subscribe to Our Substack at - https://groundpass.substack.com

Visit Our Website at - www.groundpasspodcast.com

Email us at - [email protected]

Follow us for daily updates on Social:

Threads: https://www.threads.net/@ground_pass

Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/groundpass.bsky.social

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ground_pass

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@GroundPass

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@groundpasspodcast

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In this episode of Meet the Professionals, host Anastasia interviews Calvin Betton, a successful tennis coach who has guided his players, Henry Patten and Harri Heliovarra to Grand Slam victories. Calvin shares his journey from aspiring tennis player to becoming a head coach in tennis. He discusses the importance of realism in coaching, the emotional highs and lows of the sport, and the evolving role of coaches in tennis. Calvin emphasizes the need for strong relationships with players, the significance of grassroots coaching, and offers valuable advice for aspiring coaches. The conversation also touches on the challenges of promoting doubles tennis and the impact of coaching on the growth of the sport.

Relevant Links:

• Calvin Betton on X - https://x.com/calvbetton?s=21&t=34KFRaMxpc-93mq_1EOI7A

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Coaching in Tennis

01:46 Calvin's Journey from Player to Coach

05:22 The Transition to Coaching: Realizations and Training

10:11 Building Relationships with Players

17:32 Navigating the Coach-Player Dynamic

22:16 The Highs and Lows of Coaching

27:01 The Evolution of Coaching in Tennis

30:17 The Need for Better Commentary in Doubles Tennis

33:38 Selling the Story of Doubles Tennis

37:51 Advice for Aspiring Coaches

40:51 The Impact of Grassroots Coaching on Tennis Growth

Connect with Us:

• Follow Ground Pass on Instagram and Bluesky/Twitter for real-time updates.
• Subscribe on Substack for bonus episodes, behind-the-scenes coverage and exclusive content.
• Got thoughts on this week’s tennis news? Let us know in the comments or send us a message!

Enjoy the episode and stay tuned for more from Ground Pass!

Subscribe to Our Substack at - https://groundpass.substack.com

Visit Our Website at - www.groundpasspodcast.com

Email us at - [email protected]

Follow us for daily updates on Social:

Threads: https://www.threads.net/@ground_pass

Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/groundpass.bsky.social

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ground_pass

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@GroundPass

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@groundpasspodcast

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We are back with a little bonus this week - All the tennis stories we wanted to talk about couldn’t fit into one episode so here is a little bonus pod for you. 

• Mirra Andreeva’s historic win
• Karolina Muchova and Clara Tauson entertain
• And Andrey Rublev is back

We discuss it all and also that Medvedovic v Tsitsipas match 🤯

Relevant Links:

• Karolina Muchova’s Shot of the Year - https://www.instagram.com/reel/DGWEZCyPWbv/?igsh=ZHZ0Z2o4M2FwMHE1
• Nick on BlueSky - https://bsky.app/profile/nickcartertennis.bsky.social
• Christian’s Court on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/christianscourt?igsh=bG4ydGdqa3plcW1k

Chapters

00:05 Ground Pass News Roundup

01:12 Mirra Andreeva: A Rising Star

07:47 Clara Tauson: The New Big Hitter

11:55 Karolina Muchova is much watch tennis

20:56 Andrey Rublev is back

23:15 Doubles Dynamics and the Rio Open

32:26 Upcoming Tournaments and Wrap-Up

Connect with Us:

• Follow Ground Pass on Instagram and Bluesky/Twitter for real-time updates.
• Subscribe on Substack for bonus episodes, behind-the-scenes coverage and exclusive content.
• Got thoughts on this week’s tennis news? Let us know in the comments or send us a message!

Enjoy the episode and stay tuned for more from Ground Pass!

Subscribe to Our Substack at - https://groundpass.substack.com

Visit Our Website at - www.groundpasspodcast.com

Email us at - [email protected]

Follow us for daily updates on Social:

Threads: https://www.threads.net/@ground_pass

Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/groundpass.bsky.social

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ground_pass

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@GroundPass

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@groundpasspodcast

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The US Spring swing continues this week with the Austin Open, a WTA 250, but it’s all leading to the tentpole events of this period - The SunShine Double. Indian Wells and Miami Open are the highlights of US Spring Tennis season. Steeped in history and prestige its as close to the hype you will get in the US tennis calendar outside of the US Open. Indian Wells especially has over the years earned the moniker of The Fifth Grand Slam, in this episode we preview both tournaments and give you our guide to the events. When to go, what tickets to get and what you can or cannot bring.

We will also be publishing a full guide on our website. Stay tuned to our social media to find out when that is live.

Relevant Links:

• A Serious Tennis Fan’s Top 10 Tips for the 2024 US Open (Tickets and More) - https://www.roadto45tennis.com/a-serious-tennis-fans-tips-for-the-us-open-tickets-more/
• Ground Pass on Site Substack: https://groundpass.substack.com

Chapters

00:00 Welcome Back and Technical Improvements

01:36 Social Events and Personal Updates

06:47 Topic of the episode - 1000 level tennis tournaments

15:36 The Sunshine Double: Indian Wells and Miami Open

21:01 Ticketing Insights for Indian Wells

22:47 Practice Courts and Player Accessibility

34:12 Navigating Indian Wells: Essential Tips

38:24 Crowd Dynamics and Planning Your Visit

42:01 Experiencing the Magic of Night Sessions

45:33 Comparing Indian Wells and Miami Open

56:10 Final Thoughts and Upcoming Events

Connect with Us:

• Follow Ground Pass on Instagram and Bluesky/Twitter for real-time updates.
• Subscribe on Substack for bonus episodes, behind-the-scenes coverage and exclusive content.
• Got thoughts on this week’s tennis news? Let us know in the comments or send us a message!

Enjoy the episode and stay tuned for more from Ground Pass!

Subscribe to Our Substack at - https://groundpass.substack.com

Visit Our Website at - www.groundpasspodcast.com

Email us at - [email protected]

Follow us for daily updates on Social:

Threads: https://www.threads.net/@ground_pass

Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/groundpass.bsky.social

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ground_pass

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@GroundPass

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@groundpasspodcast

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Anastasia is back from the Delray Beach Open and catching up with Nick about the trip, plus all the big stories from the past week in tennis!

• Delray Beach Recap: Anastasia shares her final thoughts on the tournament, standout moments, and behind-the-scenes insights from her time on-site.
• Tour Highlights:
• Doha WTA 1000 & Buenos Aires ATP 250: Amanda Anisimova and Joao Fonseca claimed titles—what their wins mean and how they pulled it off.
• Jannik Sinner’s Suspension: Breaking down what happened and its implications for the season.
• Elena Rybakina’s Coach Ban: A surprising development—what led to it and how it might impact her going forward.
• Mixed Doubles Changes at the US Open: A shake-up in the format—what’s changing and what it means for the event.
• Diego Schwartzman’s Retirement: Reflecting on his career, impact, and legacy on tour.

Relevant Links:

• Ground Pass on Site Substack: https://groundpass.substack.com
• The Athletic article: WTA bans Stefano Vukov, Elena Rybakina’s former coach, for one year after code of conduct investigation 

00:00 Welcome Back and Episode Overview

01:50 Delray Beach Open Insights

08:54 The U.S. Spring Swing

11:07 Madison Keys can't play the Austin 250

16:36 Substack Launch and Coverage Plans

19:33 Doha and Other Tournament Updates

25:48 Amanda Anisamova & Joao Fonseca win titles

32:52 Rapid Fire News Roundup

37:00 Yannick Sinner's Suspension and Its Implications

41:49 Elena Rybakina's Coaching Issues

44:38 Changes in US Open Mixed Doubles

54:18 Farewell to Diego Schwartzman

57:12 Upcoming Tournaments and Player Highlights

58:57 Players of the Fortnight

01:04:27 Outro

• Follow Ground Pass on Instagram and Twitter for real-time updates and exclusive content.
• Subscribe on Substack for bonus episodes and behind-the-scenes coverage.
• Got thoughts on this week’s tennis news? Let us know in the comments or send us a message!

Enjoy the episode and stay tuned for more from Ground Pass!

Visit Our Website at - www.groundpasspodcast.com

Email us at - [email protected]

Follow us for daily updates on Social:

Threads: https://www.threads.net/@ground_pass

Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/groundpass.bsky.social

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Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@GroundPass

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@groundpasspodcast

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Welcome to the first Ground Pass On-Site episode of 2025! We’re kicking things off at the Delray Beach Open, bringing you an exclusive look at the action straight from the grounds.

In this episode, we cover:

✅ First impressions from the tournament 🌴

✅ An interview with The Bryan Brothers - Bob and Mike Bryan - about Davis Cup and the state of Doubles 🎾

✅ Behind-the-scenes observations and fan experience insights 👀

✅ What to watch for on Day 2 🔥

If you’re at Delray, let us know! And if you’re following from home, we’ve got you covered with all the on-the-ground details.

Also Ground Pass on site has a new home:

Subscribe to Ground Pass On-Site exclusively on Substack for daily updates from Delray Beach!

📢 Follow us on social media for real-time updates

Relevant Links:

• Ground Pass on Site Substack: https://groundpass.substack.com

Visit Our Website at - www.groundpasspodcast.com

Email us at - [email protected]

Follow us for daily updates on Social:

Threads: https://www.threads.net/@ground_pass

Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/groundpass.bsky.social

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ground_pass

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@GroundPass

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@groundpasspodcast

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In this episode of Ground Pass, hosts Anastasia and Nick welcome Blair Henley, a prominent figure in tennis media. They discuss Blair's journey from aspiring tennis player to media professional, her experiences in on-court hosting, and the importance of connecting casual fans with the sport. The conversation touches on the challenges of balancing a career in tennis media with family life, the significance of smaller tournaments, and the evolving landscape of tennis, including the impact of pickleball. Blair shares insights on emerging talents in the sport and offers advice for those looking to break into tennis media.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Meet the Professionals

02:00 Blair Henley's Journey in Tennis Media

04:27 Early Aspirations and Career Choices

09:12 Transitioning from Tennis Player to Media Professional

12:15 Finding Passion in a Career

13:51 Advice for Aspiring Tennis Media Professionals

20:00 Proud Moments in Tennis Media

22:55 Connecting Fans to Player Personalities

23:39 Spotlight on Emerging Tennis Stars

30:14 The Art of Interviewing in Tennis

32:29 Challenges of Being a Tennis MC

36:44 The Future of Tennis: Trends and Accessibility

Relevant Links:

• Blair Henley online: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bdhenley || Website: https://www.blairhenley.com/
• Ground Pass Linktree (One Link to rule them all) - https://linktr.ee/GroundPass

Visit Our Website at - www.groundpasspodcast.com

Email us at - [email protected]

Follow us for daily updates on Social:

Threads: https://www.threads.net/@ground_pass

Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/groundpass.bsky.social

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ground_pass

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@GroundPass

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@groundpasspodcast

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