In this episode, Lorenzo Petrucci, performance coach to WTA top-20 player Liudmila Samsonova, shares his journey from a tennis-playing student in Milan to working alongside some of the sport’s top talent. He reveals how success on tour is about far more than hitting balls, it’s about managing pressure, building smart routines, and knowing when (and how) to push. From insights learned under Ricardo Piatti to the importance of on-court collaboration with tennis coaches, Lorenzo gives an entire look into elite tennis's mental and physical demands.

🗣️ 3 Key Quotes:

1. “It’s not about how good you are—it’s about understanding who you have in front of you.”

2. “The best fitness coaches are the ones who understand tennis.”

3. “You must be clear. The player doesn’t allow you to be in doubt.”

✅ 5 Takeaway Points:

1. Success in tennis depends heavily on mental resilience and communication.

2. Strength and conditioning must align with on-court movements, not just gym work.

3. Understanding each player’s physical and emotional needs is key to long-term progress.

4. Female and male players require different training and recovery strategies.

5. A cohesive and collaborative support team makes all the difference.

Hope you enjoy it

Fabio

This podcast is sponsored by ASICS. ASICS is a Japanese company founded in 1949 to give more people the opportunity to experience how sports and movement can have a positive impact on mental well-being.

To learn more about ASICS visit their website here: https://www.asics.com/nl/en-nl/sports/tennis/

Find us on Social Media:

Instagram: Instagram.com/FunctionalTennis

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

In this episode of the Functional Tennis Podcast, host Fabio Molle interviews Pol Toledo, coach of Paula Badosa, discussing her journey, training methodologies, and challenges on the WTA Tour. Pol shares insights into his coaching philosophy, the impact of statistical analysis, and the importance of mental resilience in elite tennis. He also reflects on his transition from player to coach, his longstanding relationship with Badosa, and the challenges of managing injuries and performance on the tour.

5 Key points

• Smart Post-Match Analysis – Pol gives Paula time before reviewing matches, using video and stats to refine strategies.
• Data-Driven Training – They analyze key stats, focusing on serve +1 shots and improved return positioning.
• Technical Enhancements – Pre-season work includes specialized tools (Saber racket, elastic bands) to sharpen footwork and shot power.
• Mental Strength & Adaptability – Paula quickly applies coaching advice, with a strong focus on confidence and communication.
• Injury Management – Overcoming back issues taught her to understand pain, adjust training, and stay competitive.

I hope you enjoy

Fabio

This podcast is sponsored by ASICS. ASICS is a Japanese company founded in 1949 to give more people the opportunity to experience how sports and movement can have a positive impact on mental well-being.

To learn more about ASICS visit their website here: https://www.asics.com/nl/en-nl/sports/tennis/

Find us on Social Media:

Instagram: Instagram.com/FunctionalTennis

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

Today I chat with Chris Lewitt, who recently updated his book, "Secrets of Spanish Tennis 2.0." Chris, a distinguished coach with extensive experience in the Spanish tennis system, elucidates ten pivotal lessons derived from his interactions with renowned Spanish coaches. These principles not only encapsulate the essence of Spanish tennis training but also offer actionable strategies for players and coaches alike. Throughout our discussion, Chris emphasizes the critical importance of footwork, mental resilience, and the tactical utilization of topspin in achieving success on the court. This episode serves as a comprehensive exploration of the methodologies that have propelled Spanish players to prominence in the world of tennis.

5 Key areas:

🔵 Chris Lewitt's book, 'Secrets of Spanish Tennis 2.0', encapsulates key lessons learned from Spanish coaches.

🔵 The importance of footwork, movement, and developing a strong defense on the court

🔵 The necessity of teaching players to control their emotions and maintain focus during matches.

🔵 Focus on building fitness and endurance. The Spanish training philosophy emphasizes off-court conditioning as a crucial part of player development.

🔵 Embracing suffering is integral to the Spanish tennis philosophy, building resilience and mental strength.

I hope you enjoy

Fabio

This podcast is sponsored by ASICS. ASICS is a Japanese company founded in 1949 to give more people the opportunity to experience how sports and movement can have a positive impact on mental well-being.

To learn more about ASICS visit their website here: https://www.asics.com/nl/en-nl/sports/tennis/

Find us on Social Media:

Instagram: Instagram.com/FunctionalTennis

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

Today I chat with coach and author Adam Bilcher, who recently published a book called Winning Words. The book focuses on how good communication can improve tennis coaching, highlighting the importance of respect and understanding between coaches and players. Drawing from his experience with the Danish Tennis Federation and his podcast series, Adam shares insights into the mental and emotional aspects of coaching. The book is a helpful guide for both coaches and parents, showing how better communication can help players reach their full potential. In this conversation, we explore the key ideas from Adam’s book and discuss how communication is crucial for developing young players.

5 Key areas:

🔵 Building trust and respect as a coach to get buy-in from players.

🔵 How external cues (like analogies) work better than internal cues for learning and performance.

🔵 The value of clear roles and expectations between players, coaches, and parents.

🔵 Normalizing nerves and using focal points to refocus during matches.

🔵 The role of post-match evaluations based on focal points rather than just results.

I hope you enjoy

Fabio

This podcast is sponsored by ASICS. ASICS is a Japanese company founded in 1949 to give more people the opportunity to experience how sports and movement can have a positive impact on mental well-being.

To learn more about ASICS visit their website here: https://www.asics.com/nl/en-nl/sports/tennis/

Find us on Social Media:

Instagram: Instagram.com/FunctionalTennis

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

Fabio Molle sits down with Rene Zandbergen to discuss the exciting launch of the new ASICS Gel Resolution X tennis shoe at the ASICS Tennis Summit in Melbourne. Rene shares insights about his role in the shoe's development, emphasizing the shoe's enhanced comfort and innovative features, such as the Dyna Lacing system that allows for a customizable fit. The conversation delves into the extensive testing process with top players, highlighting how their feedback shaped the final product. Rene also addresses the shoe's durability and performance, making it an ideal choice for both competitive players and coaches who spend long hours on the court. Tune in to discover how the Resolution X is designed to elevate your game and enhance your on-court experience.

Takeaways:

• Rene Zandbergen discusses the importance of player feedback in developing the Resolution X shoe.
• The new Dyno Lacing feature allows for customizable fit and enhanced support for players.
• Comfort and stability are emphasized in the design of the Resolution X tennis shoe.
• The Resolution X incorporates a softer foam for improved cushioning while playing.
• Rene highlights how player preferences influenced the shoe's design and construction process.
• The shoe's performance benefits include better grip and stability for aggressive movements on court.

This podcast is sponsored by ASICS. ASICS is a Japanese company founded in 1949 to give more people the opportunity to experience how sports and movement can have a positive impact on mental well-being.

To learn more about ASICS visit their website here: https://www.asics.com/nl/en-nl/sports/tennis/

Find us on Social Media:

Instagram: Instagram.com/FunctionalTennis

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

I randomly came across the Yonex popup while in Melbourne and inside Darren Cahill (Coach of Jannik Sinner) was having a Q&A with some people so I joined in briefly.

Darren a former player has previously worked with Lleyton Hewitt, Andre Agassi and Simona Halep.

• The importance of resilience in tennis success
• Building strong habits for consistent performance
• Why Yannick Sinner’s parents stayed out of coaching
• Turning setbacks into opportunities for growth
• The transition from player to coach and team-building

The sound quality is lower than normal as I only had my phone and it was noisy but there's plenty to learn in this short recording.

Finally a big thanks to Asics Tennis for flying me down to Melbourne to help launch their new Asics Gel Resolution X.

Fabio

This podcast is sponsored by ASICS. ASICS is a Japanese company founded in 1949 to give more people the opportunity to experience how sports and movement can have a positive impact on mental well-being.

To learn more about ASICS visit their website here: https://www.asics.com/nl/en-nl/sports/tennis/

Find us on Social Media:

Instagram: Instagram.com/FunctionalTennis

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

Let's learn about Swing Speed, modern tennis and the New Tecnifibre T-Fight which has just launched.

The next-gen forehand has evolved and requires faster swing speed and more manoeuvrability. Tecnifibre has been tracking this with their tecnilab programme and today the head customizer Dieter Calle joins me alongside the Tecnifibre Chief Marketing Office Matthieu Bauduin to discuss why and how it has changed and how the. new T-Fight is aligned to these changes.

If you're interested in tennis and equipment there is plenty to learn in this episode and a new racket to consider for your game that pros such as Medvedev and Iga Swiatek are using

Takeaways:

• The evolution of tennis rackets has led to a significant decrease in weight and swing weight, making them more manoeuvrable for modern players.
• Customization of rackets is crucial for players, as it allows them to achieve optimal performance tailored to their specific playing style.
• The new Technifibre T-Fight racket is designed for the fast-paced nature of contemporary tennis.
• Players today often prefer lighter rackets that still provide power and stability, shifting away from heavier models.
• The input from top players during the development of the T-Fight was invaluable, guiding its specifications and design.
• Technifibre's focus on player feedback ensures that its products align with the needs of both amateur and professional players.

Jesper De Jong, a rising Dutch tennis player, shares his journey from a young athlete to competing on the world stage, including his experiences qualifying for his first Grand Slam and playing against top players like Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz. With a steady rise in rankings and a strong team behind him, Jesper emphasizes the importance of consistency and hard work in achieving his goals. He discusses the challenges of balancing training in a beautiful yet distracting location like Bali, while also reflecting on the camaraderie fostered by training with teammates. Jesper candidly reveals the impact of his battle with mononucleosis on his career trajectory, and how he has managed to regain and build upon his form. As he looks forward to breaking into the top 100, he highlights the significance of enjoying the sport and maintaining a healthy mindset throughout his journey.

Takeaways:

• Jesper De Jong emphasizes the importance of enjoying tennis, especially during the early years of training.
• He shares his journey from a tennis novice to competing against top players like Alcaraz and Sinner.
• The experience of qualifying for his first Grand Slam brought immense relief and joy.
• Jesper highlights the significant role of team spirit during preseason training in Bali.
• He reflects on the differences in playing styles between top players like Sinner and Alcaraz.
• The support from the Dutch Federation was crucial in shaping his early professional career.

This podcast is sponsored by ASICS. ASICS is a Japanese company founded in 1949 to give more people the opportunity to experience how sports and movement can have a positive impact on mental well-being.

To learn more about ASICS visit their website here: https://www.asics.com/nl/en-nl/sports/tennis/

Find us on Social Media:

Instagram: Instagram.com/FunctionalTennis

Czech tennis player Linda Noskova joins Fabio Molle to discuss her impressive rise in the WTA rankings, achieving a spot in the top 25 by maintaining a consistent mindset and dedication to continuous improvement. At just 20 years old, Linda reflects on her journey since winning the French Open junior title in 2021 and shares insights on the importance of playing junior tournaments as a foundation for success. She emphasizes the significance of having realistic goals and the long journey it takes to transition from juniors to the professional circuit. Linda also touches on the supportive Czech tennis landscape, which has historically produced many great players, and the confidence that comes from competing against familiar faces from her junior days. As she looks ahead to her goals for 2025, Linda expresses her excitement for the upcoming season in Australia, focusing on her passion for the sport rather than the pressure of defending points.

Takeaways:

• Linda Noskova emphasizes the importance of consistency in achieving success in tennis.
• She believes that enjoying the competitive nature of tennis has driven her passion.
• Transitioning from junior to professional tennis requires significant mental and physical adaptation.
• Noskova highlights the historical influence of Czech tennis legends on current players' aspirations.
• She shares that her commitment to continuous improvement guides her training and competition.
• Being grounded and focusing on personal development rather than rankings shapes her approach.

This podcast is sponsored by ASICS. ASICS is a Japanese company founded in 1949 to give more people the opportunity to experience how sports and movement can have a positive impact on mental well-being.

To learn more about ASICS visit their website here: https://www.asics.com/nl/en-nl/sports/tennis/

Find us on Social Media:

Instagram: Instagram.com/FunctionalTennis

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

Jaime Faria, a promising 21-year-old Portuguese tennis player, has made an impressive leap in his career, climbing from a rank of 411 to a career-high 116 this year. Despite not being the top junior in Portugal and facing tough competition, Jaime chose to remain with the Portuguese Tennis Federation rather than pursue college tennis in the U.S. His journey is marked by an incredible run that includes winning four Futures titles and two Challenger titles, showcasing his determination and talent. In our conversation, Jaime opens up about his rise through the rankings, the support he received from the federation, and his aspirations to break into the top 100. With a bright future ahead, Jaime's positive attitude and hard work are sure to inspire aspiring players everywhere.

Fabio

This podcast is sponsored by ASICS. ASICS is a Japanese company founded in 1949 to give more people the opportunity to experience how sports and movement can have a positive impact on mental well-being.

To learn more about ASICS visit their website here: https://www.asics.com/nl/en-nl/sports/tennis/

Find us on Social Media:

Instagram: Instagram.com/FunctionalTennis

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

Join me, Fabio Molle, as I share my top 13 favorite products for tennis players that make perfect gifts for the upcoming season. From rackets to shoes, grips to training aids, I've curated a list that caters to every tennis enthusiast, whether they are just starting or are seasoned players.

One of the highlights of this episode is the Bablot Pure Aero, which has been voted our Racket of the Year for the second consecutive year, alongside the Wilson Blade as a close second. I also dive into my personal favourites from Asics shoes. Plus, I’ll touch on some essential gear like grips, tennis balls, and even tech products that can enhance your game. Tune in for some great recommendations that will surely delight any tennis lover!

The products

• Wilson Blade
• Babolat Pure Aero
• Functional Tennis Saber
• Solinco Hyper G (I forgot to mention these!!)
• ASICS Solution Speed FF3
• ASICS Court FF3 Novak
• Wilson US Open Ball
• Dunlop ATP Ball
• Tecnifibre Endurance Duffel Bag
• Tecnifibre Endurance Backpack
• Oura Ring (10% Off newest Ring)
• Whoop (30 day trial)
• Swing Vision (Free Gift)

Let me know what else should be on this list!

Fabio

This podcast is sponsored by ASICS. ASICS is a Japanese company founded in 1949 to give more people the opportunity to experience how sports and movement can have a positive impact on mental well-being.

To learn more about ASICS visit their website here: https://www.asics.com/nl/en-nl/sports/tennis/

Find us on Social Media:

Instagram: Instagram.com/FunctionalTennis

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