Shows
Behind the Racquet PodWimbledon Champ Noah Rubin is BoredLots to recap here, in this pod recorded slightly before the women's final at Wimby. We discuss-The slowing of the grass courts-Paolini is great, but she shouldn't have two straight GS finals-Panic at the (Challenger) Disco-Wild Cards tbd at the Open. Guess yours! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2024-07-1549 minBehind the Racquet PodBehind the Racquet with Marcus WillisMarcus Willis is a 33 year old from Slough, Great Britain, ranked 116 in the world. He is a 5 time (at this moment) Challenger doubles champion.Once, he made it to the second round of Wimbledon.Those two sentences don't begin to sum up the man with some of the best hands in tennis. Marcus sat down with Mike and Noah to talk about THAT run to Wimbledon, THAT episode with the RC Cola and a snickers bar, and also how those big moments have been mixed with some really trying times, both externally, and some self...2024-05-1456 minBehind the Racquet PodBehind the Racquet with Tristan BoyerFirst, unfortunately, Mike's mic shut down in recording, so as the least important person on the pod (Noah and Tristan agree on this)..his voice will sound shaky today.Tristan Boyer is a 23 year old out of Southern California, ranked 231 in the world. In a few weeks, he'll play in Roland Garros qualifying for the first time in his career, just his second career grand slam appearance (after the US Open Qs last year). Just over one year ago, he was ranked 1500 in the world heading in to the green clay Challengers in the states, and reached...2024-05-0651 minBehind the Racquet PodFirst Quarter Check In with Noah and MikeNoah is back from his honeymoon, so we do a catchup on some recent topicsNamely the potential tour restructure. What does it mean for the Challengers?We get a honeymoon recap from Noah, how to best interact with fans, Danielle Collins, and a resurgent Rafa and what that means.More with Tristan Boyer next week. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2024-04-2952 minBehind the Racquet PodYear 6; Episode 1. Noah Finally Returns; An AO Recap; What to do with ZverevOnly a month in to the year, we get back after it. Lots to get to, here's a rundown.Open- Mike's AO12:00- Noah Returns to Professional Tennis28:35- Australian Open Recap; We're in Good Hands43:50- Quick outlandish predictions from Mike and Noah; Ethan Quinn and Tommy Paul48:00- Sascha Zverev Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2024-01-291h 07Behind the Racquet PodI Guess It's Time to do a Podcast Again?We have a lotttttt to get to, so here are some chapter notes:0:00 Mike beats Noah in Fantasy3:30- Noah catches us up on where he's at tennis wise10:30- Who does Noah most want to play18:30- The Premiere Tour and why it's likely a disaster25:45- Mike is headed to Australia and is dealing with existential dread36:09- Mental Health, Constant Pressure, and No Breaks41:30- Enjoying the Passage of TimeMore with a Special Guest on Wednesday...2023-12-1144 minBehind the Racquet PodBehind the Racquet with Brian KoppelmanBrian Koppelman is a DEVOTED tennis fan, but you'll know him best for his involvement as Executive Producer and Showrunner for the Showtime series Billions, writer of Ocean's Thirteen and Rounders, and the director of the 30 for 30 episode "This Is What They Want", about Jimmy Connors.He sits down with Noah to chat about Billions, his tennis love, and so much more. Mike was unfortunately on air at the time, so he had to feed Noah questions about his literal favorite film, Rounders.Tomorrow we'll have a quickie with Abdullah Shelbayh, and Freddie Nielsen joins...2023-10-021h 04Behind the Racquet PodWimbledon Weather Warrants a WrecapLegit question, does anyone read this?Mike and Noah recap Christopher Eubanks' remarkable win in Mallorca, and then launch in to Wimbledon. The weather has been rough, the courts have been slow, and why the heck was Kontaveit not honored properly?Mike is off to Taylor Swift before the Chicago Challenger. More next week! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2023-07-0733 minBehind the Racquet PodBreak Point Part 2, and Behind the Racquet with Alex BoltNoah spent the last several days fully analyzing the latest "part" of Break Point. He breaks it down for us, strengths and weaknesses, and we list who we think are the biggest misses from the "profiles" so far.We do a quick analysis of the differences of qualifying at Wimbledon, versus ACTUAL Wimbledon.And then, we get in to the meat of of our pod, a rare interview with Alex Bolt. The 30 year old is currently ranked 342 in the world while coming back from injury. He's using a protected ranking this week in Wimbledon qualies...2023-06-2658 minBehind the Racquet PodFrench Open Recap, Blair Henley begins her Commentary takeover, and Alex Lawson knows flagsAlright, LOTS to get to.Mike and Noah discuss the big topics post RG, including Novak, Iga, Sabalenka's fake indignation, Miyu Kato, new #1 Austin Krajicek, and more...Then, we get in to Mike's talk with Blair Henley, who did some commentary at the Tyler, Texas Challenger. Finally, dubs specialist Alex Lawson joins Mike and Blair for giggles.More with Alex Bolt on Monday!Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2023-06-141h 06Behind the Racquet PodThe (nearing) Retirement Episode, with Bradley Klahn and Bjorn FratangeloWith Rafael Nadal announcing he would miss Roland Garros, and (likely) shut it down at the end of 2024, Noah and Mike are joined by Bjorn Fratangelo and Bradley Klahn, two American veterans who are in the back end of their tennis careers. We talked about how they viewed the retirement question, what they thought about Rafa's comments about enjoying one last run, and how challenging it is to retire on your terms if you're NOT Rafa or Roger.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2023-05-2349 minBehind the Racquet PodExpansion by SubtractionLots to catch up on for the boys this week. We start by answering Noah's question on whether the Alcaraz upset Monday shows that we haven't been respecting "The Big 3" enough.Are Carlos and Iga "Generational Talents?"Expectation, success, and hyperbole all on display lately.We also hit the blatant sexism in Madrid, and Mike pleas with the new owners of the Western and Southern Open to keep it in Cincy.Next week, we'll announce a giveaway of a Daniil Medvedev used ball from the day he became #1 in the world!2023-05-1650 minBehind the Racquet PodNoah Reveals His New Path- PickleballWell, it was quite a revelation last week when Noah Rubin announced he'd start playing pickleball. He finally sits down with Mike to discuss the whys, the people who are rooting against him, and what tennis can learn from pickle.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2022-10-1834 minBehind the Racquet PodFed, Foe, and Finally some Challenger ChangesWe talk over Fed's retirement at the Laver Cup, the absolutely inexcusable abuse thrown toward Frances Tiafoe after he beat Fed in his final match. And we walk through some of the changes to the Challengers coming in 2023. TLDR: Mike is optimistic, Noah, shockingly, is not.Jason Kubler next.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2022-09-2733 minBehind the Racquet PodNoah Rubin steps away. And so did some other guy.Well now that the announcement is out there, Noah talks us through why he's stepping away from tennis, and what he'll miss most.We also talk about Fed's retirement decision, and what he's meant to both of us in our respective careers, including Noah's meeting with him at the Australian Open 2017.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2022-09-2035 minBehind the Racquet PodUS Open Recap; Where will the rivalries come from, and Mike's take on three straight five setters with CarlosRecorded immediately preceding Carlos Alcaraz's victory in the men's singles final, Noah visits Mike in Queens to wrap up the Open.We talk rivalriesThe Happy Slam in New YorkAnd Carlos' impact.We get some takes on the PTPA, US Open Broadcast times, and more.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2022-09-1248 minBehind the Racquet PodSerena Says Goodbye, and Make Mike Best Man 2024We start with Noah's engagement, as our lil boy is all done growed up.But the real story is Serena Williams' retirement announcement. We discuss that, how she has impacted tennis, and our lives; and why this year has become a year full of retirements across both tours.More from Cincy, and wherever Noah heads next, coming next week.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2022-08-1542 minBehind the Racquet PodYibing Wu on winning three straight titles on the USTA Pro CircuitOne of the more remarkable runs I've witnessed on the USTA Pro Circuit over the last 9 years. Yibing Wu lost 2 sets in 15 straight wins. He's moved from 1741 to 174 in the ATP rankings since returning to the tour earlier this year after surgery and covid restrictions.I talked to him immediately after he came off the court in Indianapolis. He was winded, emotional, and thoughtful, considering he was ultimately rushing to get to a flight. Appreciated the time immensely.TOMORROW!!!!And all new podcast...no Noah...no Mike?!?!?!?Learn more about your...2022-07-2511 minBehind the Racquet PodWhat's it like to face Nick KyrgiosTsitsipas and Kyrgios' Saturday clash once again highlighted how players all have different interpretations of what's OK on court. Mike and Noah go through it to sort out what's needed to fix that issue.And Noah gives us his take on what it's like to face Kyrgios.More next week from Rome, Georgia!Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2022-07-0434 minBehind the Racquet PodLook who's back. It's Noah! Wimby, dumbing down of surfaces, and the US summer swingNoah rejoins us after his three month sojourn to introspection.We go through the Wimbledon controversies, how the surfaces now all feel alike, and talk about the upcoming summer here in the states.And as a quick bonus, Mike's daughter Marnie pops on to say hello and give her take on Noah, Chris Eubanks, and her favorite joke.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2022-06-2750 minBehind the Racquet PodBehind the Racquet with JJ WolfA Noah-less episode this week, as Mike talks with former Ohio State star JJ Wolf from Little Rock, Arkansas, site of this week's Baptist Health Little Rock Open.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2022-06-0324 minBehind the Racquet PodIga, Carlito, and Mike meets a HeroNoah and Mike catch up on the misbehavior of some of Noah's contemporaries, and discuss Iga and Carlos' victories in Miami, along with some stories from on the ground from Mike.More coming from Tallahassee in a couple weeks!Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2022-04-0831 minBehind the Racquet PodWe've got a LOT to catch up on, don't we?Noah and Mike reconvene after a month apart. We discuss:Mike's first time as an on court reporter, in AcapulcoKristie Ahn's retirement, and the potential for a few moreSascha Zverev's incident in AcapulcoHow the war in Ukraine will effect the tennis worldNaomi Osaka, and mental health breaks in a sport with no time for breaks.More coming soon, we hope!Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2022-03-1634 minBehind the Racquet PodBehind the Racquet with Filip PeliwoA quick recap from Noah on his last several weeks on the road before we talk with the now 28-year-old from Vancouver, who had a dominant junior career with four slam finals in a year, with two titles.Mike will be in Dallas on Sunday (weather permitting) so hopefully we can meet up if everything works out!Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2022-02-0237 minBehind the Racquet PodEmergency Pod on Novak Decision: Not Great, BobMike and Noah take on the Novak crisis (as of Monday Jan 10 in the morning), and decry the fact that this continues to make tennis look bad. And what about everyone else who did the right thing. And WHAT ABOUT THE TENNISLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2022-01-1031 minBehind the Racquet PodChallenger University? Get Me a Job.First, yeah, Mike has covid. (I'm fine, I promise). So, this week's plans for multiple pods got completely shot in the foot.But, Noah was a trooper and sat in the cold so we could record a pod to discuss ATP Chairman Andrea Gaudenzi's quotes about Challengers. Obviously, this caused some heat. We'll recap, go over it, and go from there.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2021-12-2034 minBehind the Racquet PodVasek Pospisil on the state of the PTPA and how it impacts Challengers and FuturesOne of the co-founders of the PTPA, Vasek Pospisil, joins Mike and Noah from Charlottesville, where he's the top seed at the Charlottesville Men's Pro Challenger.Our half hour chat didn't even begin to get in to the full depths of the PTPA and how it fits in to the tennis landscape. But Vasek did give an update on where it's at now, how it impacts lower level players, and he debates the clarity of message with Mike.He also discusses how it's impacted him on court...and hopefully, we'll get another opportunity to get...2021-11-0133 minBehind the Racquet PodQuick Update on Noah's ankle (yes, again); and Mike's Indian Wells trip. Big guests upcoming...Catching up with Noah here after a few weeks off, as the final stretch awaits. Back with new guests and shows next week. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2021-10-2815 minBehind the Racquet PodBehind the Racquet with Francesca Di LorenzoOhio State? The transition to the pro tour? Fishing? Insulting Noah Rubin? You name it, this pod has it. We talked with the 24-year-old about her standout career in Columbus, her ascension in the pro ranks, and how challenging it has been to maintain that level. We go through some fishing excursions she's had down in Tampa, and a very, very special and important request for the tournament organizers in Indian Wells.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2021-09-2238 minBehind the Racquet Pod"Lucky" LoserYeah, you heard about it. Noah Rubin decided yeah, sure, I'll play Andy Murray on Sunday after losing a heartbreaker 20 minutes earlier in Winston-Salem. He was lauded for giving it a go, and at least efforting to put on a show for a packed crowd.But the story, and the pressure of that decision, was a lot more exhausting.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2021-08-2533 minBehind the Racquet PodCatching up in Cary with KruegerThe boys have a quick chat about Noah's return to competitive tennis, and why it's so important to him again after a difficult stretch.Mike takes a look back at the Atlantic Tire Championships in Cary, North Carolina, some of the surprises and big stories, as well as a quick discussion on Jenson Brooksby, Atlanta, and the potential US Open wild cards.Then we hear Mike's chat with Mitchell Krueger, recorded just after the Texan won his title on Sunday.Subscribe, and be a part of the discussion, @noahrubin33 and @mikectennis...2021-07-2738 minBehind the Racquet PodUpdate time: Noah talks PTPA, Novak vs the world, and....Sewer CatIt's been nearly 3 months since Noah and Mike have caught up and discussed issues of the day, so what better time!Here's a little timeline for you, and a note for our patreon supporters, LISTEN TO THE END OF THE SHOW!2:00- Noah Life Update6:00- Mike got a cat from the sewer8:00- Wimby recap, and the Big 3 vs Parity16:30- The player reaction to Naomi Osaka22:00- Noah's update on the PTPALove y'all, more info on the shirts, and stickers, soon!2021-07-1233 minBehind the Racquet PodBehind the Racquet with Ulises BlanchOf note, no Noah this week, as he was both traveling, AND he had Islanders rinkside seats while I knocked out this pod, as well as one with Goncalo Oliveira that we'll post soon.Uli is 23 years old, with a unique childhood that he'll tell you about. Really a fascinating interview, and thanks to everyone for popping in and spending time with me the last couple weeks back on the road!-Mike.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2021-06-1429 minBehind the Racquet PodBehind the Racquet with Jason JungNOTE: PLEASE EXCUSE THE DOUBLE AUDIO FOR THE FIRST MINUTE OF THE INTERVIEW. I got it sorted out after about a minute or so. -MikeThe ankle injury continues to hamper Noah, but Mike trudges on alone on the road, but is joined by Jason Jung, a perennial top 150 player who has found ways over the years to continue to see high level success. It's been a long path, from a highly successful junior career, to a college career that didn't quite hit those big expectations, to a real life job, and then yes, on to a...2021-05-3136 minBehind the Racquet PodBehind the Racquet with Jenson BrooksbyIt's been a pretty damned decent 2021 already for Jenson Brooksby, He's now won three Challenger titles, including both Orlando in Tallahassee in April in back to back weeks ON DIFFERENT SURFACES on the USTA Pro Circuit. Truly remarkable stuff. He hops on the pod to talk with Mike and Noah about where he gets his incredible self belief, learning from early opportunities at Challengers in Northern California, and how and why he's as vocal as he is on the court.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2021-05-0324 minBehind the Racquet PodA Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the PodcastBoth guys are now on the mend, after Mike gives you the details on his recent medical trauma.Hoooobi is the champion in Miami. What does it mean for what's popular in tennis?We debate development routes, focusing on the path taken by Sebastian Korda and how to make it accessible to more people.And finally, yes, how good is women's tennis right now at the top?Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2021-04-0828 minBehind the Racquet PodYea?After food poisoning wrekt Noah for a week, the boys get back together to mark one year in to the pandemic and still survival mode in terms of the structure at the top of tennis. Where's the cohesion?Benoit Paire's comments about a lack of passion for the current state of the ATP drew a lot of attention, but was he right?The ATP put out an infographic this week, claiming that players ranked 100-250 made 60% more money from August to February than they had a year before. That can't be right, can it Noah?2021-03-1527 minBehind the Racquet PodNoah's Quarter Life CrisisIt's Noah's 25th birthday, so the boys get together to celebrate, recap the AO, and recap the last several weeks on multiple different levels.-Novak's GOAT status-Naomi's GOAT status-Brady and Aslan and what it means for "Challenger players"-Why didn't Noah play last week.Love from us to you. We appreciate you, very much.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2021-02-2237 minBehind the Racquet PodBehind the Racquet with Stefan KozlovWhen Noah Rubin and Stefan Kozlov met in the Wimbledon 2014 final, it was thought to be one of the many steps in the progression for Stefan Kozlov, at the tender age of 16. Later that year, he knocked off his first top 100 player in Tim Smyczek, on the way to a CHALLENGER FINAL in Sacramento.Some good runs at ATP events followed, a couple Challenger titles, and then he suddenly just slowly receded away from high level tennis. It's been nearly four years since his last final, but Koz sounds like he's found a path. The 22 year old...2021-01-1931 minBehind the Racquet PodNew Year; Same MohawkA quick note from your editor, Mike: There was a major issue with Noah's recorder in Delray halfway through, along with another issue which you'll hear about....so there's a noticeable audio difference when we had to switch to a cell line. Apologies, it's all we could do in a rushed situation.Now, a big thanks to our latest patreon sponsor, Steve Quick. He and our other patreon sponsors will be receiving a special pod later this week. You can join at patreon.com/behindtheracquetpod.The tennis world is absolutely chaotic right now. Yet here...2021-01-0526 minBehind the Racquet PodWhere in the World is Jared Donaldson?Jared Donaldson is just 24 years old, but has been out of action for essentially two years, since originally hurting his knee in the summer of 2018. It's not been a smooth process for him on the road to recovery. He walks us through his prognosis, and the reality of what's staring him in the face.He also goes in the way back machine with his former Jr Davis Cup teammate Noah Rubin to discuss their epic win over Russia, featuring three future top 10 players.We will also be releasing our patreon only episode...2020-12-1544 minBehind the Racquet PodAy yo, what's the deal with the AO?It's been a while, so Noah and Mike have some catching up to do.Noah brings you all the latest info the players have received when it comes to the Australian Open. Hint: It's still a little dicey.Plus the schedule for 2021 is way up in the air. What's it mean?Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2020-12-0825 minBehind the Racquet PodDispatches from Cary Part 2In part 2 of our dispatches from Cary, Noah and Mike chat with Denis Kudla (who is in the final on Sunday at the Atlantic Tire Championships in Cary), doubles specialist Nate Lammons, Jack Sock's coach and former top 100 player Alex Bogomolov, Jr., and top 70 doubles star Luke Bambridge.More coming up next week from Orlando!Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2020-11-1636 minBehind the Racquet PodDispatches from Cary Part 1On a rainy day in Cary on Wednesday, Noah and Mike chatted with eight different players for mini-interviews, culminating with the more serious question of how to improve the quality of life and opportunity for Challengers, and Challenger level players. On Part 1, we chat with Christopher Eubanks, Hunter Reese, Thai-Son Kwiatkowski, and Teymuraz Gabashvili.Part 2 will be released on Monday, with thoughts from Luke Bambridge, Denis Kudla, Alex Bogomolov, Jr, and Nate Lammons.Thanks so much to our patreon sponsors. You can help the podcast by visiting patreon.com/behindtheracquetpod.Learn more about...2020-11-1333 minBehind the Racquet PodMichael Mmoh is alive and wellAs Challenger tennis returns to the US this week in beautiful Cary, North Carolina, Noah and Mike sit down with returning finalist Michael Mmoh to talk about his covid break, how his runs in Cary and Knoxville in 2019 changed his perspective, his long term development, his relationship with his parents, and yes, Frances Tiafoe's note from Saturday that Mike was MIA.Disclosure: This podcast was recorded outdoors, and socially distanced. We're incredibly thankful to our patreon supporters and others who have allowed for us to have good enough equipment to sit six feet apart from each other...2020-11-0928 minBehind the Racquet PodCiCi Comes BackNative Californian CiCI Bellis' injury battles through 2018-9 are well documented, going through four surgeries on her arm. After withdrawing before her semifinal match Saturday at the USTA Pro Circuit event in Tyler, Texas, CiCi joined Noah and Mike for a chat about her preparation for this week's event in Charleston, how she's handling the schedule post Covid-hiatus, and her newfound fame on the cooking circuit!Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2020-11-0223 minBehind the Racquet PodBehind the Behind the Racquet TourLast week, Behind the Racquet founder Noah Rubin announced the BTR Tour, his vision for a reimagined tennis experience. Today, Mike presses him on the details behind the larger vision, including the details of BTR Tour weekend, and whether it's a long term competitor for the ATP and WTA Tours.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2020-10-2633 minBehind the Racquet PodPondering the ATP Player Council PicksJust a slew to unpack this week, in this order1) The French results, Iga on BTR, Nadal's achievement at the French2) The return of the USTA Pro Circuit3) PTPA vs the New Player Council4) Mental Health Awareness Week and where Noah and Mike are in that regardLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2020-10-1335 minBehind the Racquet PodBack to Life, Back to RealityNoah lost a tough one to Ivo Karlovic. To Mike's delight, the gentle giant threw in THREE underarm serves. We'll get Noah's take on his French Open experience, what's next, and what the hell is going on with the French Open balls?Then the boys discuss the complete lack of consistency pointed out this week by former guest Gaby Dabrowski, among others, on medical protocols from week to week. What's the ATP telling it's players? Noah tells us.Then, Mike takes on some wild tangents, because that's what Mike does when he has little sleep.2020-09-2833 minBehind the Racquet PodNoah takes us Inside a very messy French Open BubbleIt's not a great start to the French Open, with multiple positive tests, and more questions about the bubbles and the rules than answers. Noah Rubin invites us inside the bubble as he prepares for a first round qualifying matchup with Dr. Ivo on Monday.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2020-09-2031 minBehind the Racquet PodUS Open Reflections, and can you have an social impact without winning?A week after he leaves the bubble, Noah Rubin reflects on his times at the Open, while Mike appears to have a different view entirely. The boys dissect their reflections on it.And Mike was moved immensely by Naomi Osaka, but also wondered if it's possible for someone like Noah, or any player around 200 in the world, to have an impact socially, if they don't win at the highest level.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2020-09-1331 minBehind the Racquet PodIs the Bubble Busted, Plus Noah's PTPA RationaleNoah breaks news on a Sunday, explaining what ramifications are coming from Benoit Paire's positive covid test.And yes, you saw Noah in his BTR shirt in the PTPA photo. Why was he there????Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2020-08-3137 minBehind the Racquet PodIn Front of Mental Health Episode Three: Noah and Mike prep themselves for the bubbleNoah has received a wild card in to the US Open Doubles Draw.Mike has received an offer to broadcast the US Open.All good news!Dr. Katz helps the guys out and gives them tips on how to survive the bubble, and appreciate the opportunity.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2020-08-2429 minBehind the Racquet PodProblems in PragueNoah Rubin details some of the problems he's heard from players in Prague, the site of the first Challenger tournament as the ATP and WTA return to action throughout the world.Plus, we talk about some of the latest Behind the Racquet's features, and whether Noah envisions himself retiring with a lack of opportunities in front of him.Thanks again to all of our incredibly supportive Patreons. You can be a part of it by visiting patreon.com/behindtheracquetpod.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2020-08-1735 minBehind the Racquet PodThe British Experience with Liam Broady26 year old Liam Broady prepares for the restart of tennis as the 211th ranked player in the world, and unsure about how the quarantine rules will affect him over the next few months. He recently created a stir by flipping off Andy Murray. He's a possible male model. The pride of Stockport joins Noah and Mike to discuss those topics, and what he's learned from the Battle of the Brits, Andy Murray, and his trips through the states.Thanks again to all of our patreon sponsors. You too can be...2020-08-1032 minBehind the Racquet PodTennis is back....for some. The conundrum for the Challenger players.We check back in with Noah in New York, and Mike in Tulsa, with the 31st Palermo Ladies Open underway, officially resuming the ATP/WTA seasons. The US Open is three weeks away, with the entry lists being released Monday.But what about those outside looking in. How do they improve? How do they improve? How does Noah get to the Australian Open main draw next year?Thanks again to our new patreon sponsors, Steve Quick, Cheryl Harris, Jeremy Koufakis, and Kline Sack.You can help support the pod by...2020-08-0332 minBehind the Racquet PodYour Turn: Get your questions readyThank you SOOOOO much to our patreon supporters, first and foremost, including those that supported this week.On Monday, Noah is traveling to Tulsa for a non-podcast reason. But it is going to allow us to record what could be our lone in-person podcast for the rest of 2020. SOOOOOO.It's your turn. You get to ask us anything you could possibly want.Patreon supporters get first dibs. We'll be sending out an email on how patreon supporters can ask their questions, and then social media questions from there.You can also...2020-07-1310 minBehind the Racquet PodRant City, Rant Rant CityThis was supposed to be a week for us on positivity, and some of the things that make this sport so memorable and positive for us.That changed with the positive Covid test for Frances Tiafoe in Atlanta.So, this week, Mike takes the reigns to rant against the idea that so many exhibitions are having as much influence on the sport as they are.Noah brings us home with the positivity,Don't forget, support the podcast at patreon.com/BehindtheRacquetPodLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone...2020-07-0635 minBehind the Racquet PodWe're playing the OpenImportant to note, we had to record BEFORE Grigor Dimitrov tested positive for Covid-19. Which is too bad, as we have some damned thoughts.But, hear Noah's surprising take on whether the Open should go on or not, and how he's combatted the Novak fans he argued with through the last week.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2020-06-2234 minBehind the Racquet PodBehind the Scenes of the ATP's CallNoah Rubin likes to take us Behind the Racquet, today he's taking us behind the scenes of the ATP's phone call to discuss the US Open with 400 pros. Hear details of what was discussed, and Noah's opinions on the options.Noah's also received criticism from Novak's fam, hear why, and see if you agree.And Mike explores regional slams just a little bit more in depth.As always, thanks to our fantastic patreon sponsors. You can help support the pod and our future endeavours at patreon.com/BehindtheRacquetpodLearn more about...2020-06-1538 minBehind the Racquet PodPhillip Simmonds on race within the sport of TennisA difficult topic parsed by Noah and his longtime friend Phillip Simmonds, taking a look at race in the sport of tennis, and how it affects the players and fans.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2020-06-0831 minBehind the Racquet PodMuzza, Nick, and Reilly...catching up on the last two weeksLots to catch up on for Noah and Mike, and so they hit the Muzza/Nick instagram live, Reilly Opelka's momentous and page turning interview in Racquet mag, and whether Noah will be hitting at any exos.We also thank our incredibly kind and generous patreon donors, who have helped sustain us, literally and figuratively, the last couple months. You can donate at patreon.com/behindtheracquetpodLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2020-05-1832 minBehind the Racquet PodMental Health Week: The Live PodcastQuick tech note: Mike's recorder went wayward the first few minutes. It restarted a few minutes, the audio is clean about 7 minutes in.Now.This is Mental Health Week for the Behind the Racquet.Join Noah as he explores mental health from a variety of perspectives, with special guests on the Behind the Racquet Instagram live:All times Eastern:Monday 2PM Dr. Jonathan KatzTuesday 2PM: Sven GroeneveldWednesday 2PM: Marcos BaghdatisThursday 5PM: Reilly OpelkaFriday 2PM: Marco Trungelliti2020-05-0441 minBehind the Racquet PodLimits are getting pushedLimits are getting pushed indeed.For Mike, it's the all too familiar feel of depression that's hit pretty hard.For Noah, it's a level of frustration with the leaders of tennis.Listen, react, and reach out.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2020-04-1533 minBehind the Racquet PodReminiscing with RamprasWide ranging chat with the pride of Carmel, Indiana Rajeev Ram this week. Mike gets to chat all things University of Illinois with one of the legends from the undefeated National Championship team of 2003, and Noah looks ahead with the Australian Open champion about how the sport might be changing due to the pandemic delay.Huge thank you to our patreon supporters this week. We're so thankful for the support in this difficult time, and if you're able, we'd appreciate your support too. Go to patreon.com/BehindtheRacquetPod2020-04-0836 minBehind the Racquet PodAnother League?Our weekly check in today is essentially therapy time for Mike, while Noah is taking his discussions to a large group of players. Hear what he's discussing with them, and how the guys are handling their time sidelined, and without an income source.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2020-03-3022 minBehind the Racquet PodWhat's next with WTA star and Player Council Member Gaby DabrowskiTwo caveats here:1) As we always want to point out, nothing is more important than the health and well-being of our society. This discussion is meant to look at some of the tennis issues surrounding how the sport is affected by Coronavirus.2) Noah and Mike had some technical issues that we couldn't quite solve, so we had to record this one over skype, so the audio quality is not what we'd like to have.Gaby Dabrowski was a delight. She takes us inside some of the WTA Player Council discussions about income distribution...2020-03-2436 minBehind the Racquet PodLife has changed.The caveats are important here. Nothing, in terms of discussing the what ifs of tennis, matters as much as the health of humans, and how we move forward as a society.That being said, Mike and Noah talk a bit this week about how they're personally being impacted, and how the decision making processes by the various entities in the sport are drastically underrepresenting its players.Personal note from Mike: Apologies for not properly thanking all of our incredible patreon supporters in this week's episode. I will make sure to make that right next week.2020-03-1933 minBehind the Racquet PodNoah's 15-All Volume 8: Yeah, we're a bit nervous about the impact of Coronavirus tooNoah jumps about 25 spots in the rankings after a GREAT week in Indian Wells.Naturally, he's headed to Hawaii.And yes, the coronavirus is weighing heavily on our minds. First, both of us are quite aware that the human toll, in casualties, illnesses, and the like are far more important. But the impact that tennis players outside the top 50 feel, are similar to the impacts that many of our listeners feel. So we riff on it for a bit.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2020-03-0922 minBehind the Racquet PodNoah's 15-All Volume 7: Are we having fun yet?A couple of things to hit on this week's edition of 15-all:Noah's in to the third round (at the time of recording) at the Indian Wells ChallengerHe's still seeing some unhappiness amongst is peers. Is he happy?HUGE thank yous to our new patreon sponsors!!!And Mike is starting to panic a bit about the coronavirus.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2020-03-0520 minBehind the Racquet PodNoah's 15-All Volume 6: Dirt Devils, and Everything's Not FinesAfter a good week at the DBO, Noah is off this week to rest his body, but at a VERY costly price.Plus, Noah and Mike offer their takes on clay court specialists, after Nick Kyrgios' controversial clay court take last weekend.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2020-02-2520 minBehind the Racquet PodNoah's 15-All Volume 5: Don't Talk to Me Like That!Just hours before Noah's 2020 tour level debut in Delray Beach, we chat about his big weekend qualifying, and why saying "focus" to your player might be the worst thing possible!Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2020-02-1818 minBehind the Racquet PodNoah's 15-All Volume 4. Eff you, haters!Noah got a win, his first after a stress reaction in his elbow last year. How does he feel?And can you ACTUALLY silence the haters?Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2020-02-1219 minBehind the Racquet PodNoah's 15-All, Volume 3Third volume, and it's got a name.15 minutes with Noah from the RBC Tennis Championships ahead of his matchup with Aleks VukicTopics: Agents, and the value of friendships out here.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2020-02-0318 minBehind the Racquet PodNot Just Hot Air: Noah's segment, Volume 2Outspoken as always, Noah Rubin takes you through his thoughts on the smoke from the bushfires in Australia.As a reminder, you can donate to several fantastic organizations here, including the Australian Red Cross. Their site is at:https://www.redcross.org.au/Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2020-01-1717 minBehind the Racquet PodThe yet untitled Noah BTR Segment, Volume 1NEW SEGMENT ALERT!We need help with a name. Each week this season, we'll do 10-15 minutes with Noah, assessing his season, his brain, his body, and see how it changes, morphs, cracks, strengthens...behind the racquet indeed.Give us your name suggestion, and you could win an autographed ball!Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2020-01-1414 minBehind the Racquet PodTo be (A Union) or not to be (A Union)This week’s podcast goes a little bit deeper in to Mike’s firm belief that Unionization is a necessity, and where we are with the rumors swirling of a potential walkout or boycott from ATP players in Australia. That, and exciting news from Noah on his elbow injury, as Mike raves about the new Andy Murray documentary. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2019-12-0328 minBehind the Racquet PodBuilding a Bridge to Barbados with Darian KingLots going on the last two weeks, and Noah and Mike recap the wins by Mmoh, Giron, and Wolf.And we discuss how crucial it is for small countries to have someone leading the way in the sport, with the best player EVER from Barbados, Darian King.Join the conversation with @noahrubin33 or @mikectennis on all forms of social mediaLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2019-11-1828 minBehind the Racquet PodTargeting Top 100 with Taro DanielWhile Noah hopped down to Charlottesville to join Mike for some commentary, he also had a chance for the podcast to sit down with Taro Daniel. Taro entered the week just outside of the top 100, and reaching that mark carries significant weight for many players, especially with direct entry to the Australian Open guaranteed if you make it.Also, Mike and Noah stayed in the same house for the week, with predictably awful results.Have a listen, and then reach out and let @noahrubin33 and @mikectennis know what you think!Learn more about...2019-11-0428 minBehind the Racquet PodHey Noah, great match, but what happened at 4-2, 15-40?Listener question from Jeff in Long Island who asks simply, "As a fan, what do I say to a player that just lost a match?"Great question, complicated answer.We also hear Noah's best and worst fan moments in his career, and hear why Mike beat up on some 80 year olds this weekend.As always, interact with us @mikectennis and @noahrubin33and visit behindtheracquet.com, and mikectennis.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2019-10-0730 min
Behind the Racquet PodTommy's Time with Tommy PaulNew in to the Top 1003 Challenger ChampionshipsBeing cussed out by an opponentA twitter beef with Nicole Gibbs?Everything is up for discussion with Tommy Paul, who joined Noah and Mike before his weekend title in Tiburon, California, as well as a short interview after.As always, join the discussion by tweeting/DMing @noahrubin33 and @mikectennisLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2019-09-3032 minBehind the Racquet PodDefending the indefensiblePart of the underlying pressure faced by players at the Challenger level is the constant undercurrent of defending points from one year ago. Noah Rubin (noahrubin33) and Mike Cation (mikectennis) break it down, and explain why the current system is a bit flawed, while searching for a correct fix.Also, a big surprise at the end as we reveal next week's guest, and ask for your input! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2019-09-1728 min
Behind the Racquet PodThe Oracle: Christopher EubanksOracle recently announced a massive expansion of their program to help American tennis, adding 25 new ITF, ATP, and WTA events next year. Will it help?Noah Rubin and Mike Cation explore that issue with Christopher Eubanks, who received a grant from Oracle in 2018. We also discuss the unique friendship between Noah and Christopher, and the soaring Atlanta Falcons Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2019-09-0933 min
Behind the Racquet PodThe Responsibility of YouthCoco Gauff has delighted the tennis world, and America, with incredible spirit, great tennis, and a fascinating story to tell. She's also signed massive endorsement deals, met with Michelle Obama, and has forced the WTA's hand with their age limits. Number of tournaments is one thing.The responsibility of the tour is another.Noah Rubin (@noahrubin33) and Mike Cation (mikectennis) discuss it and more from the US Open. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2019-09-0328 min
Behind the Racquet PodSocial Media with Tennys SandgrenA difficult one for both Noah and Mike, talking with friend Tennys Sandgren about his social media presence in years past, and where he's at with social media now. Also, how did Sandgren escape the landscape of Futures and Challengers. As always, continue the conversation with us @noahrubin33 and @mikectennis Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2019-08-2633 min
Behind the Racquet PodHey look, it's Jamie Loeb!Mike and Noah have spent a lot of their time talking about the challenges faced by players outside the top 50. But what about some of the additional challenges on the women's side. We bring in Jamie Loeb for her perspective of the WTA/ITF schism, and an additional problem for the gram... Continue the conversation @mikectennis or @noahrubin33 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2019-08-0729 min
Behind the Racquet PodTime to make the jump!Before a quick vacation in the Bahamas for Noah, we take a look at what it takes for a teen turn to pro, and what the transition is like for players coming out of juniors, and college. We also chat briefly about the continuing enigma that is Nick Kyrgios, as well as Noah's experience last week in World Team Tennis. Join the conversation @noahrubin33, or @mikectennis on twitter and instagram. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2019-08-0532 min
Behind the Racquet PodGood Match, DummyOn the eve of Noah's debut on the World Team Tennis stage, he and Mike tackle whether it's sometimes beneficial to be....dumb. And not in a book way, but in a awareness of anything but hit ball, see ball. Who's dumb, who's not, and yes, a debate on the Australian stache craze, all on this week's episode of the Coffee Cast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2019-07-3035 min
Behind the Racquet PodMartin Redlicki and the move from college to the prosThe two-time NCAA Champion joins Noah Rubin and Mike Cation for a talk about the transition to the pros after a successful career at UCLA, and discusses the difficulties of the first year, his ambitions, the rumors about UCLA's style, and who's better at Fifa...Redlicki or Rubin? As always, join the discussion @noahrubin33 or @mikectennisLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2019-07-2429 min
Behind the Racquet PodScheduling Made Difficult...The complexities of how the 99% have to piece together their schedule month to month, and sometimes week to week, is the topic for Mike and Noah this week, as Noah took a last second wild card in to the event in Binghamton, New York. The complexities of entry rules are vast, and we tackle it this week. As always, contact us @Noahrubin33 or @mikectennis for thoughts, and make sure you watch the stream this week from Binghamton at:https://www.usta.com/en/home/pro/pro-tennis-events/usta-pro-circuit-men-s-live-streaming.htmlLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/ad...2019-07-2232 min
Behind the Racquet PodElusive Confidence, and the Difficult of Streaks (and should Novak turn heel?)On the heels of our conversation with Bradley Klahn, Noah and Mike discuss how difficult it is to maintain momentum and confidence, even after picking up big wins. And on the flip side, finding your way out of those negative slides when you get in to one. That, and we talk about why everyone hates Novak, and can he turn that around. Interact with us: @noahrubin33, and @mikectennis Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2019-07-1533 min
Behind the Racquet PodBradley Klahn with Noah Rubin inside the New Balance Winner's CircleA bonus episode as Noah and Mike talk to Bradley Klahn, winner of the USTA Pro Circuit event in Winnetka on Sunday in the New Balance Winner's Circle. We talk about his anxiety that he talked about in his Behind the Racquet profile a few months ago, as well as start the discussion on streaks and confidence that Noah and Mike will talk about later tonight. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2019-07-1522 min
Behind the Racquet PodHappinessAs Manic Monday unfolds at Wimbledon, and the USTA Pro Circuit resumes in Winnetka, Noah Rubin and Mike Cation tackle happiness, and explore some of the longstanding barriers for players on tour. Join the discussion, by chatting with us @noahrubin33, and @mikectennis on all of your social media platforms.And please review us on itunes or your favorite podcast app. It helps us get noticed!Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2019-07-0834 min
Behind the Racquet PodThe Television Episode (and hey look, Noah's playing Wimbledon!)Lots to discuss in today's half hour. -Noah Rubin qualifies for Wimbledon -Sooooo many changes with the ATP Player Council and we begin the discussion on how to make tennis better for television. What are your thoughts? Get in touch: @mikectennis or @noahrubin33 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2019-07-0134 min
Behind the Racquet PodCoffee Cast Powered by Behind the Racquet: Mental HealthIt is never an easy topic to discuss, but today, Noah Rubin and Mike Cation begin the discussion about Mental Health within the sport of tennis. We talk about the immediacy of the frustration, despair, and loneliness felt after a loss, as well as the lack of resources available. And about the brave conversations being had by Katie Swan and Nicole Gibbs, among others, on Behind the Racquet. Listen, think, and interact with us @noahrubin33 @mikectennis Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2019-06-1730 min
Behind the Racquet PodCoffee Cast Powered by Behind The Racquet: Tennis FinancesWelcome to the new sounds on the Coffee Cast, as we partner with Noah Rubin to begin a weekly show dedicated to exploring the in depth issues that he exposes on Behind the Racquet. This week, we talk finances. Vasek Pospisil started a tweetstorm discussing the financial inequities within our sport, and we wanted to break that down further. His tweet says a player ranked ~300 made 77K last year. Accurate? Maybe not. And that's before expenses. We let you know what those are. Welcome to the journey Behind the Racquet. Learn more about your ad choices...2019-06-1432 minBehind the Racquet PodCoffee Cast with Cation: Noah Rubin EditionHis Behind the Racquet series has brought notoriety to many of the difficulties faced by himself, and his peers. But today, on the Coffee Cast, Noah Rubin goes in depth on the basic day to day difficulties faced by many within the sport, and some of the momentous changes he believes are necessary to keep the sport relevant, and keep its athletes in a better state mentally and physically.His thoughts are not a definitive set of finished reforms, but more of a jumping off point. Listen, think, and let him (and me!) know what you think. Lea...2019-06-101h 00Behind the Racquet PodNew Balance Winner's Circle with Tommy PaulIt's been a long time coming for Tommy Paul. The 21 year old picked up his first Challenger title in dominant fashion on Sunday in Charlottesville, going Lucky Loser to final without losing a set in the main draw. That included wins over Noah Rubin, Ivo Karlovic, Bradley Klahn, and then Peter Polansky in the final. It puts him in the running for the USTA Australian Open Wild Card, although he's well behind Jack Sock for now. And it almost guarantees him a trip to Australia for qualies. While we've still got to sit down to discuss some random topics (incl...2018-11-0511 min
Behind the Racquet PodNew Balance Winner's Circle with Noah RubinHear from Tallahassee Tennis Challenger Champion Noah Rubin after a three set win over Marc Polmans. It's his fourth title, second of the year, and puts him in the lead of the USTA Pro Circuit French Open Wild Card Challenge.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2018-04-2904 min
Behind the Racquet PodCoffee Cast with Noah Rubin, Part 1So, a funny thing happened on the way to the podcast.So, I was discussing a picture I have on my phone with Noah, of him, Stefan Kozlov, and Jared Donaldson. When I showed it to him, the recording stopped. I didn't notice it for 15 minutes. So......we missed out on some good stuff. But it's still some good insight in to his life on the road, and his family. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2018-04-2523 min