The Third Set with Mike Cation

AO with Ahn

Mike Cation — Sun, 19 Jan 2020 00:00:00 GMT

Recorded before the draw, and finding out that she could end the career of Caroline Wozniacki, Kristie Ahn joined the boys to talk about her long history with Noah, how she's coping with the air quality issue in Melbourne, how life has changed since the Open, and her "two things."

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New Balance Winner's Circle with Jay Clarke

Mike Cation — Sun, 29 Jul 2018 22:04:00 GMT

Hear from Binghamton Champion Jay Clarke on why he's the 4th British champion at this tournament in the last 13 years, following Murray, Edmund, and Norrie.

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Mackenzie McDonald in Trophy Time

Mike Cation — Mon, 16 Oct 2017 03:23:00 GMT

Mackenzie McDonald cruised to his first Challenger title in Fairfield on Sunday, after overcoming some major mental hurdles. Hear from him in this week's edition of Trophy Time!

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Iga, Carlito, and Mike meets a Hero

Mike Cation — Fri, 08 Apr 2022 21:26:28 GMT

Noah 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!

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Chats with the Champ: Zachary Svajda, Tiburon and Fairfield, 2023

Mike Cation — Mon, 16 Oct 2023 07:00:00 GMT

Zach moves to ~139 in the rankings with a 10 match winning streak. This is a nice addendum to our full podcast, which is the previous one in your feed!

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Chats with the Champ: Alex Michelsen, Chicago 2023

Mike Cation — Tue, 18 Jul 2023 18:32:06 GMT

The 18-year-old defeated Yuta Shimizu on Sunday in Chicago to win his first Challenger title, and moved inside the top 200 for the first time.

Along the way, he also defeated Li Tu, Aleks Kovacevic, Kei Nishikori, and Jerry Shang. Heckuva week.

Chat with Chris Eubanks coming later this week!

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Behind the Racquet with Denis Kudla

Mike Cation — Mon, 19 Apr 2021 09:00:00 GMT

Recorded Friday night, Orlando Finalist Denis Kudla joins us to discuss how marriage has changed his life both on and off the court, and given him new perspectives.

He also discusses what he learned from a few days away on Necker Island, learning from Richard Branson.

And.....hockey talk.

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Noah's 15-All Volume 4. Eff you, haters!

Mike Cation — Wed, 12 Feb 2020 10:00:00 GMT

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?

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Coming Home with Mitchell Krueger

Mike Cation — Tue, 04 Feb 2020 18:00:00 GMT

Mitchell Krueger's road has not always been easy. But a return home, a strong relationship, and a commitment to himself have allowed him to persevere. Hear from DFW's finest in this week's Pod.

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Building a Bridge to Barbados with Darian King

Mike Cation — Mon, 18 Nov 2019 10:00:00 GMT

Lots 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 media

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Targeting Top 100 with Taro Daniel

Mike Cation — Mon, 04 Nov 2019 10:00:00 GMT

While 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!

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Behind the Behind the Racquet Tour

Mike Cation — Mon, 26 Oct 2020 09:00:00 GMT

Last 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.

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In Front of Mental Health Episode 1

Mike Cation — Fri, 26 Jun 2020 10:00:00 GMT

We introduce you today to Dr. Jonathan Katz, a member of the BTR team who will take us on a journey of exploring mental health in athletics.

Today, we talk about the impacts of social media on us all in the midst of the pandemic, as well as the challenges facing athletes, specifically tennis players, when they return to the field of competition.

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Behind the Scenes of the ATP's Call

Mike Cation — Mon, 15 Jun 2020 09:00:00 GMT

Noah 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/BehindtheRacquetpod

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The Coffee Cast with Cation: Dan Evans Edition

Mike Cation — Thu, 09 Aug 2018 16:50:00 GMT

Finally got a chance to sit down with Dan Evans, aka Evo, to talk a little bit about his life three months back in to his comeback. Hear his thoughts on how he's been treated by the media, his relationship with his former coach Mark Hilton, and how things have gone on court since his return.

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Social Media with Tennys Sandgren

Mike Cation — Mon, 26 Aug 2019 08:00:00 GMT

A 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

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Behind the Racquet with Grant Chen

Mike Cation — Tue, 14 Mar 2023 08:00:00 GMT

Grant Chen is now the Head Coach for the men's tennis team at SMU. He came to Dallas after a legendary run from the team manager for UCLA, all the way to Associate Head Coach. He also helps run the Dallas Open, and multiple USTA Pro Circuit events at the Styslinger Altec Tennis Complex in Dallas as well. Further, he's about as connected as anyone can be. You'll see him in the box from time to time for Grigor Dimitrov, he's tight with John Isner, and many others. So Mike sat down with him to find out what makes him go, how he's gotten to this point, and what tennis means to him.

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Mission Accomplished with Luke Bambridge

Mike Cation — Tue, 28 Jan 2020 17:00:00 GMT

Two years after thinking about ending his career, Luke Bambridge now has multiple ATP doubles titles. What are the secrets, and what are the challenges facing him at the higher levels of doubles?

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The Jump with Emilio Gomez

Mike Cation — Mon, 05 Oct 2020 02:50:00 GMT

28 year old Emilio Gomez made tennis headlines last week after qualifying for the French Open for the first time in his career. The story gained traction because it's where his Dad Andres won a grand slam title in 1990.

But Emilio's story has had a much longer progression. How has that progression helped or hindered him, and where does his relationship with his father go from here?

As always, thanks to our patreon sponsors, including this week's new sponsor, Matthew Sellwood. You can join us at patreon.com/behindtheracquetpod

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The Specialist Life with Jackson Withrow

Mike Cation — Tue, 24 Sep 2019 09:00:00 GMT

@noahrubin33 and @mikectennis have spent a lot of time talking about some of the difficulties for players outside the top 100 in the ATP singles ranking. But what about the specialists?

There might not be a person better poised to answer that question than Jackson Withrow. Weeks ago, he reached the Quarterfinals of the US Open. A week later, he lost in the first round of the Challenger in Cary. And then won a title in Columbus. The ups, the downs, the financial frustrations are multiplied.

Join the conversation with us week in and week out.

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Behind the Racquet with ATP Player Council Member Miguel Angel Reyes Varela

Mike Cation — Tue, 12 Mar 2024 08:00:00 GMT

Miguel is now 36 years of age, and remains very much in the discussions at the slams as a top 75 doubles player. The former Texas Longhorn talks about his long career as a doubles specialist, what made that decision for him, and how he views the long history of Mexican tennis.

We also get in to some of the ATP Player Council politics, namely how doubles gets more eyes (and money), where the ATP is on a domestic abuse policy, and whether Latin America will be getting a Masters Series event.

More next week!

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Fed, Foe, and Finally some Challenger Changes

Mike Cation — Tue, 27 Sep 2022 18:00:00 GMT

We 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.

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A mini-ask us anything, on the day of the Mannarino conundrum

Mike Cation — Fri, 04 Sep 2020 22:21:00 GMT

Thoughts on the bubble?

Thoughts on the play?

Should the Paire 11 have been removed from the tournament?

Noah sounds off, once again

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Tara Moore and ITF Inequality

Mike Cation — Mon, 01 Mar 2021 10:00:00 GMT

The pandemic has been difficult for the entire tennis community, and has been well documented. But when @annak4ever posted a graphic this week about the lack of "Challenger level" opportunities for women (just 3 tournaments in the 60-100K prize range from January through March!), it really opened Mike's eyes to the incredible lack of upward mobility available right now on the women's side.

There's no one better qualified to talk about it than Tara Moore. The 28 year old Brit is a member of the ITF Player Panel, and with a current ranking around 200, is one of the players directly impacted by a lack of tournaments with sufficient points to improve her rankings. She walks us through some of the challengers both personally, and globally, for women outside the top 75 in the world.

As always, a huge thank you to our patreon sponsors. You can help by visiting patreon.com/behindtheracquetpod.

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Inside the Winner's Circle- Filip Peliwo

Mike Cation — Mon, 13 Nov 2017 20:44:00 GMT

Hear from 2017 Knoxville Challenger winner Filip Peliwo in this week's edition of the New Balance Winner's Circle

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2022 Recap Pt 1: Davis Cup Kerfuffle, Misogyny, and an emotional end to the year

Mike Cation — Fri, 09 Dec 2022 21:00:00 GMT

Quite an end to the year, although did the year ever really "end" A slew of exhibitions, Davis Cup distractions for the US, and really questionable (at best) words from a few top male stars.

More next week.

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Behind the Racquet with Enzo Couacaud with Guest Host Christopher Eubanks

Mike Cation — Thu, 28 Jul 2022 17:47:27 GMT

Guest Host Christopher Eubanks guides us through the career of French tennis star Enzo Couacaud, and take you Behind the Racquet to tell you his story.

Things get interesting when they start talking about the French generation of Monfils, Tsonga, Gasquet and others, and what "greatness" is.

And then we get in to how the NBA influence could benefit tennis.

More coming next week!

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Noah's 15-All Volume 7: Are we having fun yet?

Mike Cation — Thu, 05 Mar 2020 16:33:00 GMT

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 Challenger

He'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.

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Problems in Prague

Mike Cation — Mon, 17 Aug 2020 09:00:00 GMT

Noah 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.

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Mary Carillo on the Zverev Allegations and Tennis Journalism

Mike Cation — Tue, 28 Sep 2021 08:00:00 GMT

We dive in deep to the legendary commentator's decision to resign from her commentary duties with the Laver Cup this past weekend. You'll hear her explain why with regard to the domestic abuse allegations against Alex Zverev, and why that decision, and others in her career, have been so important to her, and have also cost her work.

Quick note from Mike: This was a difficult pod to record for me personally. Mary is as authentic as it can get, and it made me a) realize some of my own shortcomings in that department, while also b) inspiring me to find my own path forward in the same regards when it comes to journalism and authenticity. Hopefully it will be a fascinating pod for you guys as well!

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Noah's 15-All, Volume 3

Mike Cation — Mon, 03 Feb 2020 10:00:00 GMT

Third volume, and it's got a name.

15 minutes with Noah from the RBC Tennis Championships ahead of his matchup with Aleks Vukic

Topics: Agents, and the value of friendships out here.

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New Balance Winner's Circle with Mitchell Krueger

Mike Cation — Mon, 11 Feb 2019 04:07:00 GMT

Mitchell Krueger tells the story of his massive changes in the offseason. A new coach. A new living situation. A new forehand. It's an incredible story. Hear how he won the RBC Tennis Championships of Dallas.

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New Balance Winner's Circle with Noah Rubin

Mike Cation — Sun, 29 Apr 2018 00:10:00 GMT

Hear 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.

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Stefan Kozlov wins the Australian Open Wild Card

Mike Cation — Tue, 23 Nov 2021 21:00:00 GMT

This week, hear Mike's interview with Stefan Kozlov, who won the USTA's reciprocal wild card to the Australian Open by virtue of a final, title, and title over the last 4 weeks in Vegas, Charlottesville, and Champaign.

We've also got an interview with Christopher Eubanks, winner of the Knoxville Challenger one week ago.

Finally, to start the show, the boys discuss Koz's impeccable run over the last two months, Peng Shuai, and Novak's completely unnecessary post celebrating Alex Zverev.

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Behind the Racquet with Nishesh Basavareddy

Mike Cation — Wed, 31 Jul 2024 21:00:00 GMT

This week's guest is Nishesh Basavareddy, a 19 year old from Carmel, Indiana, currently ranked (as of July 29, 2024) 296 in the world. He's reached two Challenger Finals (Fairfield 2023 and Bloomfield Hills 2024) in his very young career, helped lead the Stanford Cardinal the last two seasons, and was ranked as high as #5 in the world as a Junior.

We talk his transition towards the pros, how he developed his pure ball striking, and his relationship with Rajeev Ram.

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Zachary Svajda Wins his First Challenger Title

Mike Cation — Mon, 10 Oct 2022 17:18:43 GMT

Zachary Svajda won the Tiburon Challenger with a 2-6, 6-2, 6-4 victory over Ben Shelton on Sunday. The 19-year-old grabbed his first Challenger title in the process, and has moved to roughly 255 in the world.

It was a crazy match, and Zach sits down with Mike to discuss the match, as well as the expectations he faced as a 16 year old after winning Kalamazoo.

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Noah Rubin steps away. And so did some other guy.

Mike Cation — Tue, 20 Sep 2022 08:00:00 GMT

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.

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Behind the Racquet with Sam Riffice

Mike Cation — Wed, 19 Oct 2022 08:00:00 GMT

The always mature Sam Riffice joins Mike during his run to the semifinals in Fairfield, California. They talked about his childhood in Sacramento, his strong family structure, and what he's learned from his fiance, Cici Bellis.

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Scheduling Made Difficult...

Mike Cation — Mon, 22 Jul 2019 11:00:00 GMT

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.html

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The Coffee Cast with Cation: Jarmere Jenkins Edition

Mike Cation — Fri, 11 Jan 2019 11:13:00 GMT

On this podcast, we talk with NCAA Champion, Challenger Champion, and now ex-player Jarmere Jenkins. Yes, he's Serena's hitting partner. No, we did not talk about Serena. It's a very frank talk, however, about the difficulties of finding positivity as a professional, and how Jarmere found his own path. And maybe how that translates for others. Enjoy. More to come this week.

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Expansion by Subtraction

Mike Cation — Tue, 16 May 2023 08:00:00 GMT

Lots 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!

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Zizou Bergs Wins The Tallahassee Challenger

Mike Cation — Mon, 24 Apr 2023 08:00:00 GMT

Zizou Bergs is a 23 year old from Belgium who won the Tallahassee Tennis Challenger on Sunday in straight sets over Tung-Lin Wu. During the event, he didn't lose a single set, while clinching his fifth Challenger title. It was an emotional moment for Zizou, who recently lost his grandfather. We talk about the week ,his style, and what this one means to him.

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The Oracle: Christopher Eubanks

Mike Cation — Mon, 09 Sep 2019 09:00:00 GMT

Oracle 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

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Behind the Racquet with Stefan Kozlov

Mike Cation — Tue, 19 Jan 2021 10:00:00 GMT

When 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 joined Noah and Mike for a reflection on his last few years.

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Not Just Hot Air: Noah's segment, Volume 2

Mike Cation — Fri, 17 Jan 2020 07:00:00 GMT

Outspoken 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/

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The Media Landscape with Jon Wertheim

Mike Cation — Tue, 07 Jan 2020 10:00:00 GMT

Jon Wertheim doesn't get to go in the weeds too often, but we dragged him in for an extensive interview about media coverage and how it relates to players outside the top 50. We also get a little more in depth in to the idea of improving marketing for players, as well as payments for those outside "the big 4."

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Defending the indefensible

Mike Cation — Tue, 17 Sep 2019 09:00:00 GMT

Part 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!

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Coffee Cast with Cation: Jordan Thompson edition

Mike Cation — Sun, 29 Jul 2018 13:59:00 GMT

On this edition of the Coffee Cast with Cation, Jordan Thompson dishes on the Transition Tour, transitioning back and forth between Challengers and Slams, and perfectionism in the sport of tennis, ahead of his 2nd straight final in Binghamton.

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The Coffee Cast with Cation: John Millman edition

Mike Cation — Wed, 24 Jan 2018 00:43:00 GMT

In this episode, hear John Millman talk about his outstanding commentary of late, Rosie the Chicken, and why American coffee pales in comparison to Australian brew.

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The Coffee Cast with Cation: Tennys Sandgren edition

Mike Cation — Thu, 11 Jan 2018 12:54:00 GMT

First Coffee Cast of the year is with Tennys Sandgren on the eve of the Australian Open. We discuss his new sponsorship, gaming, and yes, his view on politics and discourse. Don't forget, you can help support the Coffee Cast by visiting patreon.com/mikectennis to buy our coffee!

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Michael Mmoh is alive and well

Mike Cation — Mon, 09 Nov 2020 10:00:00 GMT

As 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, or further, and have a good discussion without having to shout. It's such an incredible luxury in this difficult time. But all safety precautions were taken to make sure the three of us were safe and apart from each other, while also still having a healthy, and well heard, discussion.

You can help us grown the podcast by becoming a patreon supporter as well, by visiting patreon.com/BehindTheRacquetPod. We remain overwhelmed and appreciative of all the support, big and small, especially in this challenging time of covid.

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Behind the Racquet with Alex Michelsen

Mike Cation — Mon, 29 May 2023 09:00:00 GMT

18 year old Alex Michelsen (pronounced like the golfer) joins Mike on the eve of the Little Rock Challenger, where he'll attempt to have a decent week to get in to Wimbledon qualies. He's already reached a Challenger final in Rome, has wins over former top 10 players Pouille and Sock, and is ready to enroll at the University of Georgia in the fall. We talk about his confidence, his on court improvement, and what he likes to do off the court. And yes, we talk about how he's processing the college decision as a potential top 250 player.

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Behind the Racquet with Andrew Harris

Mike Cation — Tue, 19 Jul 2022 08:00:00 GMT

The body has not been kind to Andrew Harris over the years. Back issues have limited his ability to play a full schedule since an incredible junior and college career, in Australia, and then Oklahoma. He's still hesitant to use the word specialist, but he's cognizant that this may give him the opportunities to reach the sport's peaks.

Here how he got started in the sport, what took him to Oklahoma, and how he's approaching this stage of his career. He's got some fun tales about 2022 Wimbledon, and some thoughts about how to face doubt and challenge in tennis.

More from Indianapolis with Christopher Eubanks this week.

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Look who's back. It's Noah! Wimby, dumbing down of surfaces, and the US summer swing

Mike Cation — Mon, 27 Jun 2022 09:00:00 GMT

Noah 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.

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Behind the Racquet with Filip Peliwo

Mike Cation — Wed, 02 Feb 2022 09:00:00 GMT

A 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!

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Emergency Pod on Novak Decision: Not Great, Bob

Mike Cation — Mon, 10 Jan 2022 17:00:00 GMT

Mike 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 TENNIS

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Behind the Racquet with Jenson Brooksby

Mike Cation — Mon, 03 May 2021 09:00:00 GMT

It'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.

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Dispatches from Cary Part 2

Mike Cation — Mon, 16 Nov 2020 09:00:00 GMT

In 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!

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Patrick Kypson wins the USTA Wild Card for Roland Garros

Mike Cation — Tue, 02 May 2023 18:00:00 GMT

Patrick Kypson reached his second Challenger semifinal in 4 weeks in Savannah, and in doing so, he earned the USTA's reciprocal wild card to the French Open. But he had to sweat on Sunday, as Tristan Boyer could have surpassed him had he won the Savannah title.

We chat with him about what it means to win the Wild Card at this stage in his career, and his favorite pastime, smoking meats.

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Behind the Racquet with Mackenzie McDonald

Mike Cation — Mon, 06 Mar 2023 10:00:00 GMT

Mackenzie "Mackie" McDonald is 27 years old from Northern California, ranked 53 in the world as of March 6th. He was the NCAA singles and doubles champion at UCLA in 2016, winning the doubles with Martin Redlicki (a former BTR Pod guest, now coaching at Oklahoma State).

Mackie joined us from Indian Wells, with the draw coming out later today.

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What's it like to face Nick Kyrgios

Mike Cation — Mon, 04 Jul 2022 07:00:00 GMT

Tsitsipas 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!

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Behind the Racquet with Blair Henley

Mike Cation — Tue, 21 Jun 2022 18:00:00 GMT

We go Behind the Racquet this week with presenter, commentator, personality, and fantastic human being Blair Henley to talk about the challenges of being a parent in the tennis media business, and finding the happy medium of social media presence versus wanting to have good time when we're away from the sport. It's not flipping easy!

On top of it, those of us in the Gen X/Y age want to know, how the heck does Blair stay on top of every trend!

And Blair and Mike also make their Wimby picks with the draws coming up within days!

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Jack Sock on his Savannah Title

Mike Cation — Mon, 02 May 2022 01:45:00 GMT

A quick 7 minute interview with Jack Sock after he won the Savannah Challenger on Sunday, before our full episode with Somdev Devvarman, which will be released on Tuesday.

Also, an update on us pausing our patreon page.

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Vasek Pospisil on the state of the PTPA and how it impacts Challengers and Futures

Mike Cation — Mon, 01 Nov 2021 08:00:00 GMT

One 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 in to it more during the offseason.

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Behind the Racquet with Ulises Blanch

Mike Cation — Mon, 14 Jun 2021 08:00:00 GMT

Of 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.

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Behind the Racquet with Jason Jung

Mike Cation — Mon, 31 May 2021 09:00:00 GMT

NOTE: PLEASE EXCUSE THE DOUBLE AUDIO FOR THE FIRST MINUTE OF THE INTERVIEW. I got it sorted out after about a minute or so. -Mike

The 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 really strong professional career.

We talked through that journey, and how difficult it's been coming back from the six month pandemic hiatus both on court, and off. And we also walked through what it's meant for him when he changed nationalities in 2015.

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Behind the Racquet with Ellen Perez

Mike Cation — Mon, 24 May 2021 09:00:00 GMT

It's a big week with Roland Garros qualifying underway in Paris, so we were thrilled to have a few minutes on Sunday to chat with Ellen Perez. Ellen was this week's feature on Behind the Racquet, and we wanted to extend the conversation a bit and see if her effervescent personality and positivity could rub off on the two cynics in the room.

Little Rock is on the docket for Mike next week, and Orlando immediately following, so we'll have a couple more in person chats coming up.

Thanks as always for the continued support!

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Muzza, Nick, and Reilly...catching up on the last two weeks

Mike Cation — Mon, 18 May 2020 09:00:00 GMT

Lots 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/behindtheracquetpod

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Mental Health Week: The Live Podcast

Mike Cation — Mon, 04 May 2020 09:00:00 GMT

Quick 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 Katz

Tuesday 2PM: Sven Groeneveld

Wednesday 2PM: Marcos Baghdatis

Thursday 5PM: Reilly Opelka

Friday 2PM: Marco Trungelliti

Any questions, join Noah and discuss!

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Limits are getting pushed

Mike Cation — Wed, 15 Apr 2020 09:00:00 GMT

Limits 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.

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Another League?

Mike Cation — Mon, 30 Mar 2020 09:00:00 GMT

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.

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Noah's 15-All Volume 5: Don't Talk to Me Like That!

Mike Cation — Tue, 18 Feb 2020 18:00:00 GMT

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!

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Merry Christmas with Madison Keys

Mike Cation — Tue, 17 Dec 2019 10:00:00 GMT

Despite a few technical issues at the outset, this is a full ranging interview with Madison Keys, ranging from her love of Christmas, to shortening the tennis season, to leadership issues for the ATP/WTA, to dealing with the pressures of the tour at a young age.

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Canadian Thanksgiving

Mike Cation — Tue, 15 Oct 2019 17:00:00 GMT

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Stick that Win in my VEINS

Mike Cation — Mon, 12 Aug 2019 09:07:00 GMT

Winning. It feels amazing. In this week's podcast, we talk about how great of a feeling it is to win, what it means in the immediate aftermath...and how it can get away from you in a hurry. Join the discussion @noahrubin33, and @mikectennis.

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Behind the Racquet with Marcus Willis

Mike Cation — Tue, 14 May 2024 08:00:00 GMT

Marcus 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 made issues.

As you'd expect with a Brit once nicknamed Cartman, there's a lot of hysterical stories, some introspection, and we get it all on this week's BTR Pod.

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US Open Reflections, and can you have an social impact without winning?

Mike Cation — Sun, 13 Sep 2020 20:28:00 GMT

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.

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The British Experience with Liam Broady

Mike Cation — Mon, 10 Aug 2020 09:00:00 GMT

26 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 a sponsor by visiting patreon.com/behindtheracquetpod.

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Rant City, Rant Rant City

Mike Cation — Mon, 06 Jul 2020 09:00:00 GMT

This 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/BehindtheRacquetPod

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Noah's 15-All Volume 8: Yeah, we're a bit nervous about the impact of Coronavirus too

Mike Cation — Mon, 09 Mar 2020 01:31:39 GMT

Noah 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.

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Life has changed.

Mike Cation — Thu, 19 Mar 2020 19:00:00 GMT

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.

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Behind the Racquet with Nate Lammons

Mike Cation — Tue, 03 Dec 2024 09:00:00 GMT

Nate Lammons is one of my favorite people to run in to at every tournament. He's down to earth, not impressed by pretense, and just a good human to be around.

He also happens to be one of the top 20 doubles players in the world. We chopped it up about his rise to that level, and some of the top doubles topics right now, including the US decision not to play Rajeev Ram and Austin Krajicek during Davis Cup this year.

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The Coffee Cast with Cation: Denis Kudla Edition

Mike Cation — Fri, 02 Feb 2018 23:03:00 GMT

On today's podcast, I'm joined by Denis Kudla, the young American who gained quite a few new fans with his great match with Thiem in Australia. He's been on the big stage before, and is headed back in that direction. We talk about our coffee, how his relationship has changed him, how his social media output his changed, and why. Thanks for your support!

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Pondering the ATP Player Council Picks

Mike Cation — Tue, 13 Oct 2020 03:55:00 GMT

Just a slew to unpack this week, in this order

1) The French results, Iga on BTR, Nadal's achievement at the French

2) The return of the USTA Pro Circuit

3) PTPA vs the New Player Council

4) Mental Health Awareness Week and where Noah and Mike are in that regard

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We've got a LOT to catch up on, don't we?

Mike Cation — Wed, 16 Mar 2022 14:59:47 GMT

Noah and Mike reconvene after a month apart. We discuss:

Mike's first time as an on court reporter, in Acapulco

Kristie Ahn's retirement, and the potential for a few more

Sascha Zverev's incident in Acapulco

How the war in Ukraine will effect the tennis world

Naomi Osaka, and mental health breaks in a sport with no time for breaks.

More coming soon, we hope!

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The Coffee Cast with Cation: Liam Broady edition

Mike Cation — Fri, 12 Jan 2018 22:50:00 GMT

Before heading back home from Melbourne, Liam Broady sat down with me to talk family, social justice, and our joined interest, Peaky F'n Blinders.

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Behind the Racquet with JJ Wolf

Mike Cation — Fri, 03 Jun 2022 07:00:00 GMT

A 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.

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The Coffee Cast with Cation: Christopher Eubanks Edition

Mike Cation — Sun, 13 Jan 2019 10:11:00 GMT

Some of our podcasts are a little shorter this week. Slams will do that.But we're very excited to have Christopher Eubanks join us, the day before the Australian Open main draw begins, as he is in action on Monday after qualifying last week. We talk about why Georgia Tech was important to his development, what the Transition Tour means for college tennis, and his amazing opportunity Saturday to hit and train with Serena Williams.

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French Open Recap, Blair Henley begins her Commentary takeover, and Alex Lawson knows flags

Mike Cation — Wed, 14 Jun 2023 08:00:00 GMT

Alright, 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!

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The Television Episode (and hey look, Noah's playing Wimbledon!)

Mike Cation — Mon, 01 Jul 2019 18:54:00 GMT

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

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Welcome Back Cation

Mike Cation — Tue, 27 Apr 2021 09:00:00 GMT

Mike got back out on the road, so he shares his thoughts on the Challengers in Orlando and Tallahassee.

Then, we get in to your questions, including Jack Sock's future, the difficulties of scheduling....

and then a LOT of you wanted us to discuss Jenson Brooksby. So we did. And hopefully, we have him hop on with us later in the week.

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The Coffee Cast with Cation: Neal Skupski edition

Mike Cation — Tue, 22 Jan 2019 06:33:00 GMT

This was a fun one, as Neal Skupski joined me after advancing to the Mixed Doubles QF on Monday night. We talk British tennis, his hair, the dirty world of doubles, and the family dynamic involved with his brother Ken.

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The Responsibility of Youth

Mike Cation — Tue, 03 Sep 2019 09:00:00 GMT

Coco 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.

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New Balance Winner's Circle with Lloyd Harris...Again

Mike Cation — Mon, 08 Oct 2018 02:31:00 GMT

The big hitting 21 year old from Cape Town is back in the New Balance's Winner's Circle, after taking his second career Challenger title in Stockton, California. His confidence is on a new level. Hear why, and what his win means for South African tennis.

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Behind the Racquet with Goncalo Oliveira

Mike Cation — Mon, 28 Jun 2021 08:00:00 GMT

Noah will be back this week, after we air this episode I recorded in Orlando a few weeks ago!

Goncalo Oliveira will take us on a ride through a fascinating childhood, to say the least. In some ways, it was living the dream; in others, not so much.

He's now on the cusp of being a perennial Grand Slam doubles participant. But that's not the goal yet. He'll explain why, and we'll talk about some of the ATP politics as well

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Ay yo, what's the deal with the AO?

Mike Cation — Tue, 08 Dec 2020 11:00:00 GMT

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?

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Yea?

Mike Cation — Mon, 15 Mar 2021 09:00:00 GMT

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?

Thanks to all of our patreon supporters! You can further the cause by visiting patreon.com/behindtheracquetpod.

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Battling Back from Injury with Bjorn Fratangelo

Mike Cation — Tue, 10 Dec 2019 22:00:00 GMT

It's never easy dealing with an injury as an athlete, but what happens when you HAVE to play in order to get paid?

Bjorn Fratangelo has dealt with a foot injury through the back end of 2019 that caused him to miss the last three months of the year. No money, no points...it's not easy.

He tells @noahrubin33 and @mikectennis how he dealt with it, and a crazy story about his most recent coach...

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Coffee Cast Powered by Behind the Racquet: Mental Health

Mike Cation — Mon, 17 Jun 2019 20:01:00 GMT

It 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

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Noah Reveals His New Path- Pickleball

Mike Cation — Tue, 18 Oct 2022 08:00:00 GMT

Well, 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.

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Behind the Racquet with Tristan Boyer

Mike Cation — Mon, 06 May 2024 09:00:00 GMT

First, 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 the Savannah final to really start his professional career.

We talked with Tristan about his more unique training in South American, his departure from Stanford, and what he's focusing on as his career gets underway in earnest.

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Noah's 15-All Volume 6: Dirt Devils, and Everything's Not Fines

Mike Cation — Tue, 25 Feb 2020 10:00:00 GMT

After 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.

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Thai the Enigma

Mike Cation — Mon, 02 Mar 2020 10:00:00 GMT

Lots to discuss with Thai-Son Kwiatkowski on the eve of the stacked Indian Wells Challenger. He won Newport Beach earlier this year after a difficult 2019 mentally. How did he turn it around.

Also, he immediately went to Japan after winning that tile, and not for an individual event. Find out why.

Thanks for all the support of the podcast since the launch of our new name and patreon last week. We're extremely appreciative, more than we can express.

If you want to support the cast, visit www.patreon.com/BehindtheRacquetPod, or donate directly by visiting paypal.me/behindtheracquetpod.

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Behind the Racquet with National Champion Will Blumberg

Mike Cation — Mon, 15 Feb 2021 09:58:00 GMT

Thanks so much for the support of the Behind the Racquet Podcast. You can help by visiting patreon.com/behindtheracquetpod.

This week's guest is 23 year old Will Blumberg, who won a national title with his North Carolina Tar Heel teammates at the ITA Division 1 Men's National Indoor Championships in Champaign. His pro career got delayed by covid, but it's just around the corner. We'll talk about that transition, his prolonged collegiate career, and his relationships with some of the best in the game.

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Noah's Quarter Life Crisis

Mike Cation — Mon, 22 Feb 2021 10:00:00 GMT

It'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.

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Behind the Racquet with Robert Galloway

Mike Cation — Mon, 05 Feb 2024 10:00:00 GMT

31-year-old Robert Galloway is a top 50 doubles player from South Carolina. His path took him a different route than most. He was at the peak in the 12s, stepped away from the game, and found his way back as a college star at Wofford University. As a doubles specialist straight out of college, it's a long, hard road to the top 50. Robby G takes us through his journey, with some detours as we discuss the Australian Open, the Zverev player council issue, and much more!

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Hey look, it's Jamie Loeb!

Mike Cation — Wed, 07 Aug 2019 12:16:00 GMT

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

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Behind the Racquet with J.C. Aragone

Mike Cation — Mon, 21 Jun 2021 08:00:00 GMT

What a treat to have J.C. stop by my house while he was in Tulsa for a Futures this week. Noah joins us by phone from Minnesota.

With J.C., we go through his development and time at Virginia, and then to the in depth discussion on how Type 1 diabetes has affected his life on and off the court. It's changed dramatically over the past 10 years, and is he at a new point in his life?

Next week on the pod, Goncalo Oliveira.

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New Balance Winner's Circle with Bjorn Fratangelo

Mike Cation — Mon, 15 Oct 2018 05:28:00 GMT

It's been a long time coming for Bjorn Fratangelo. The 25 year old pride of Plum, Pennsylvania picked up his first title in 2 1/2 years in Fairfield, California today. In the New Balance Winner's Circle, we talked about the depths to which he had sunk over the summer, and how he found a new balance with tennis and life. Oh...and you'll also hear why I called him "Beautiful Bjorn" during today's broadcast.

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Rejoining Reilly

Mike Cation — Mon, 28 Dec 2020 10:00:00 GMT

Young American Reilly Opelka spoke with Mike during a trip to NorCal back in 2018. A heck of a lot has changed since then. He'd just started his foray in to fashion, but he's now a force on the Tour, with a couple of ATP titles in his pocket, and one of the most feared serves in the sport.

We talked to him about his growing health concerns, how he's adjusting to them, and where the sport is after a difficult 2020.

Thoughts and concerns, as always, to patreon.com/behindtheracquetpod!

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Behind the Racquet with Karue Sell

Mike Cation — Thu, 14 Dec 2023 08:00:00 GMT

Karue Sell is a force to be reckoned with. After a successful junior career, and collegiate career, he took a year off, got to about 350 in the world after returning to tennis, stepped away from playing, became Naomi Osaka's hitting partner, founded mytennishq.com with his friend Gui, coached Marcos Giron, and now has restarted his playing career, winning a title in his second tournament back.

This week, he joins us to talk about how your perspective changes as a coach, his massive success online and what that means as he resumes his playing career, and what can change to make tennis a smoother ride.

Don't forget, on Friday, he's competing with Clay Thompson, Bradley Klahn, and Marcos Giron in a exo on mytennishq.com! Watch and subscribe for free!

00:00
Introduction and Background
03:00
Taking a Break from Tennis
06:00
Returning to Compete
11:00
Balancing Coaching and Playing
13:00
Growing My Tennis HQ
16:00
Challenges of Creating Content on the Road
20:00
Future Goals for My Tennis HQ
22:00
Promoting and Growing Tennis at Lower Levels
30:00
Using Platforms to Grow the Sport
33:00
Upcoming Tournaments and Collaboration

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Winner's Circle with Nicolas Moreno De Alboran

Mike Cation — Mon, 12 Jun 2023 20:00:00 GMT

Nicolas Moreno De Alboran defeated Mikhail Kukushkin in 3 grueling sets on Sunday in Tyler, Texas to win his second career Challenger title. Before he had to run to catch a flight, he chats with Mike about what it means to get a title on home turf, be at a new career high (142), and how he solved the riddle of Kukushkin.

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Hey Noah, great match, but what happened at 4-2, 15-40?

Mike Cation — Mon, 07 Oct 2019 09:00:00 GMT

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 @noahrubin33

and visit behindtheracquet.com, and mikectennis.com

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CiCi Comes Back

Mike Cation — Mon, 02 Nov 2020 10:00:00 GMT

Native 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!

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Cation Cast with Bradley Klahn

Mike Cation — Sat, 14 Oct 2017 22:35:00 GMT

Bradley Klahn joined us on the Cation Cast after his 6-1, 6-3 victory over Max Marterer. It's his second straight Challenger Final. Hear all about his recent form, his prolonged recovery from injury, and what it means for a couple of NorCal guys (along with Mackie McDonald) to reach the final this week.

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Your Turn: Get your questions ready

Mike Cation — Mon, 13 Jul 2020 09:00:00 GMT

Thank 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 email us at: contact@behindtheracquet.com, or mike@mikectennis.com

Cool?

Cool.

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Coffee Cast with Noah Rubin, Part 1

Mike Cation — Wed, 25 Apr 2018 21:29:00 GMT

So, 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.

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Behind the Racquet with Aleks Vukic

Mike Cation — Mon, 08 Nov 2021 09:00:00 GMT

Quiet, business like, and driven are great ways to describe Aleksandar Vukic. As opposed to a lot of the pros, who have had an amazing junior pedigree, he came to the University of Illinois as a secondary prospect. But now, after a run to the Finals in Charlottesville, he's starting to realize his top 100 dreams.

We'll also discuss his new coach, his Covid diagnosis immediately before the US Open, and the difficulties of being away from Australia for such a long period of time in 2021.

As a bonus, we do add in the post match interview with Stefan Kozlov after he won the title in Charlottesville.

Talk to you from Knoxville!

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New Balance Winner's Circle with Dudi Sela

Mike Cation — Sun, 09 Jun 2019 20:53:00 GMT

Inside the New Balance Winner's Circle with Dudi Sela, your champion at the Baptist Health Little Rock Open.

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The Coffee Cast with Cation: Alex Rybakov edition

Mike Cation — Mon, 18 Feb 2019 18:19:00 GMT

While in Chicago for the ITA National Indoor Championship, I had the chance to sit down with Alex Rybakov, 22 year old TCU Senior, currently ranked #456 in the ATP Rankings, #262 in the ITF World Tennis Tour Rankings, and #8 in the ITA Collegiate Rankings. That's a lot. It's going to be a complex process for Alex when he goes pro in a couple of months. We sat down and talked about that, his choice to attend TCU, his relationship with the top Americans that he competed with in juniors, and how he's balancing pro aspirations with a full college schedule. Also, thanks to Alex for making some extra time on a busy weekend here in Chicago.

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Re-Release: Ben Shelton following his third title in Champaign

Mike Cation — Sat, 17 Dec 2022 22:00:00 GMT

Top 100 star Ben Shelton gave his thoughts on his whirlwind year, his three straight titles to end the year, his offseason, his girlfriend Anna, and Mike gets emotional because that's what you do at the end of the year.

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Behind the Racquet with Christopher Eubanks

Mike Cation — Mon, 03 Apr 2023 09:00:00 GMT

The 26-year-old from Atlanta sits down with the boys post Miami to talk about the process of getting to the top 100 for the first time in his career after his quarterfinal run. A huge achievement, so we discuss how it happened philosophically, and technically.

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Behind the Racquet with Ben Shelton and Special Guest Host Christopher Eubanks

Mike Cation — Mon, 13 Jun 2022 08:00:00 GMT

Really enjoyable chat with the rising junior at the University of Florida, Ben Shelton. We talk about how he's planning his summer, what he's learned from his father and coach, Bryan Shelton, and Christopher Eubanks gives his advice on how to approach Ben's first summer as a "pro."

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The (nearing) Retirement Episode, with Bradley Klahn and Bjorn Fratangelo

Mike Cation — Tue, 23 May 2023 08:00:00 GMT

With 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.

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Behind the Racquet with Somdev Devvarman

Mike Cation — Tue, 03 May 2022 08:00:00 GMT

Somdev Devvarman was an All-American and NCAA Champion at Virginia, and reached as high as 62 in the world during his professional career. He's now returned to tennis as both a broadcaster in his native India, and as a coach of Sumit Nagal. Hear his viewpoints on how we could improve the transition for players post their playing days, and his thoughts on the Challenger tour as a whole.

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Rising and Recovery with Marcos Giron

Mike Cation — Mon, 28 Oct 2019 09:00:00 GMT

Hard to overstate how big of a year Marcos Giron has had. The former NCAA champ at UCLA joined @noahrubin33 and @mikectennis for a frank talk about

1) His recovery from multiple hip surgeries

2) His big moment with DelPo

3) His unique gaming relationship with his girlfriend Becca.

Join the conversation!

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Have we done enough, with special guest, coach Brad Stine

Mike Cation — Mon, 29 Jun 2020 09:00:00 GMT

Lots to discuss with longtime coach Brad Stine, including how he's kept Tommy Paul focused during the pandemic, his coaching progression, and more importantly, how and whether tennis should resume.

Stine takes issue with some of the boys' points on ways to improve and improvise the sport during the pandemic, and gives insight on how the rankings might play out during the rest of the year and in to 2021.

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Phillip Simmonds on race within the sport of Tennis

Mike Cation — Mon, 08 Jun 2020 09:00:00 GMT

A 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.

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Playing in a Pandemic with Evan King

Mike Cation — Wed, 29 Apr 2020 09:00:00 GMT

Lots to unpack with Evan King (Career High #181, All-American at the University of Michigan, from Chicago, Illinois)

1) His (editor's note: HORRIBLE) decision to attend Michigan instead of the home state school of Illinois.

2) His willingness to travel the globe in his professional career.

3) What it's been like playing in Florida exhibitions the last two weeks in the midst of the Coronavirus pandemic.

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Is it enough?

Mike Cation — Wed, 22 Apr 2020 09:00:00 GMT

Three topics to hit today:

1) the whirlwind over the Coco Gauff BTR and Noah's learning moment

2) The odd exhibition tennis down in Florida last weekend

3) The 6 million dollar payments for lower ranked players, and how it's just a bandaid.

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Behind the Racquet with Luke Saville

Mike Cation — Mon, 01 Feb 2021 10:00:00 GMT

Luke Saville and his partner Max Purcell won seven Challenger doubles titles in 2019, and moved up around 30 spots in the ATP rankings. But they received a much deserved wild card to the 2020 Australian Open, and fought their way to a Grand Slam final.

One year later, the 27 year old (HAPPY BIRTHDAY SAV!) prepares to defend those points in next week's AO; but first, he's part of Team Australia in this week's ATP Cup. It's his first international team appearance for Australia since Junior Davis Cup, when he was one of the two or three most feared players in his age group.

Sav breaks down his career, his intent with singles and doubles, and the difficulties of opportunity on the doubles side.

Big thanks to our latest patreon sponsor Keith. You can help support the cause at patreon.com/behindtheracquetpod

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Michael Kosta

Mike Cation — Tue, 11 Mar 2025 08:00:00 GMT

Mike (Cation) here. I've known Michael Kosta since I started working in tennis, right out of college, when Craig Tiley asked me to be the public address announcer for the University of Illinois Men's Tennis team, in 2001. He and Amer Delic came in to work on a pre-match CD of music, and we talked, and I immediately started pushing for him to join our radio morning show from time to time, because he was just hilarious.

25 years later, and Kosta has achieved some incredible things, with multiple comedy specials, and now as a correspondent and host on the Daily Show. And now, as he promotes his new book Lucky Loser, we have our first interview together in 22 years.

Enjoy.

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Good Match, Dummy

Mike Cation — Mon, 29 Jul 2019 22:28:00 GMT

On 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

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The Coffee Cast with Cation: Tim Smyczek in Melbourne edition

Mike Cation — Thu, 18 Jan 2018 09:30:00 GMT

Now that he's back in the second round of the Australian Open, hear from Tim Smyczek about how he's approaching his 2018, traveling with his wife, and the bloody day for Americans on Monday.(recorded Wednesday morning in Melbourne)

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We're playing the Open

Mike Cation — Mon, 22 Jun 2020 09:00:00 GMT

Important 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.

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Behind the Racquet with Ethan Quinn

Mike Cation — Mon, 19 Aug 2024 07:00:00 GMT

Ethan Quinn is 20 years old, ranked 246 in the world, out of Fresno, California. He won the NCAA Singles title at Georgia in 2023.

On the eve of US Open qualies, he sat down with Mike to discuss his path out of Fresno, why he's a 40 year old in a 20 year old body, the slow and sometimes difficult progression in the pros, and his journey in to hip hop.

More (hopefully) next week.

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The Coffee Cast with Cation: Reilly Opelka Edition

Mike Cation — Fri, 19 Oct 2018 20:00:00 GMT

Recorded last week before his tournament in Fairfield, California, hear from the 21 year old about his massive year, marred only by a bout with mono during the summer. We talk about the NBA, his social media absence, why he wants out of the Challengers ASAP, and yes, Tommy Paul's beloved Pumpkin. More coming from Charlottesville, including, hopefully, the talk we promised with Tommy Paul.

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Tommy's Time with Tommy Paul

Mike Cation — Mon, 30 Sep 2019 15:20:00 GMT

New in to the Top 100

3 Challenger Championships

Being cussed out by an opponent

A 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 @mikectennis

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Yibing Wu on winning three straight titles on the USTA Pro Circuit

Mike Cation — Sun, 24 Jul 2022 22:38:28 GMT

One 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?!?!?!?

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Behind the Racquet with Petros Chrysochos

Mike Cation — Mon, 19 Jul 2021 15:00:00 GMT

Petros Chrysochos is 25 years old, from Cyprus, and is currently ranked 359 in the world on the ATP Tour. But his story is fascinating. A junior top 20 player, an NCAA singles and team champion while at Wake Forest in 2018, and since leaving Wake in 2019, he's played professionally while serving his mandatory service time in the army in Cyprus. Remarkable stuff.

He and Noah did not overlap at Wake, but their relationship is deep as you'll hear in this wide ranging conversation.

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Behind the Racquet with Taylor Townsend

Mike Cation — Mon, 16 Aug 2021 09:00:00 GMT

Taylor Townsend's life has been a bit different of late, shifting to a new role as Mom, and also just recently returning to the tennis court! She and Noah go WAY back, and after a bit of reminiscing, we walk through how much her life has changed, her recent "The Players Tribune" article about her prior battles with the USTA, and how she views and sees the recent discussions in the sporting world over mental health.

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Behind the Racquet with Gabriel Diallo

Mike Cation — Mon, 09 Dec 2024 10:00:00 GMT

Canadian Davis Cup Champion Gabriel Diallo joins Mike on the pod this week. The 23 year old provided another big jump in the rankings in 2024, moving in to the top 100 on the back of his first ATP Final in Almaty.

We discuss his beginnings, his quite international background, the college days at Kentucky, and how he's focusing on process over results.

More next week with Jamie Loeb talking to Hayley Carter!

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In Front of Mental Health Episode Three: Noah and Mike prep themselves for the bubble

Mike Cation — Mon, 24 Aug 2020 09:00:00 GMT

Noah 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.

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The yet untitled Noah BTR Segment, Volume 1

Mike Cation — Tue, 14 Jan 2020 11:00:00 GMT

NEW 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!

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Reminiscing with Rampras

Mike Cation — Wed, 08 Apr 2020 09:00:00 GMT

Wide 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/BehindtheRacquetPod

<3 Mike and Noah

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Happiness

Mike Cation — Mon, 08 Jul 2019 14:00:00 GMT

As 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!

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Bradley Klahn with Noah Rubin inside the New Balance Winner's Circle

Mike Cation — Mon, 15 Jul 2019 14:34:00 GMT

A 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.

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Is the Bubble Busted, Plus Noah's PTPA Rationale

Mike Cation — Mon, 31 Aug 2020 02:12:00 GMT

Noah 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????

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US Open Recap; Where will the rivalries come from, and Mike's take on three straight five setters with Carlos

Mike Cation — Mon, 12 Sep 2022 07:00:00 GMT

Recorded immediately preceding Carlos Alcaraz's victory in the men's singles final, Noah visits Mike in Queens to wrap up the Open.

We talk rivalries

The Happy Slam in New York

And Carlos' impact.

We get some takes on the PTPA, US Open Broadcast times, and more.

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Martin Redlicki and the move from college to the pros

Mike Cation — Wed, 24 Jul 2019 13:46:00 GMT

The 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 @mikectennis

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The Coffee Cast with Cation: Peter Polansky Edition

Mike Cation — Thu, 26 Apr 2018 18:53:00 GMT

Peter Polansky is playing some of the best tennis in his life, knocking on the door of the top 100. At the same time, he's somehow managed to create a multi-player game/app that is earning rave reviews and some dedicated fans. Hear the story behind Arcane Pets: A Plushie Story, and more with the 29 year old from Toronto.

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Challenger University? Get Me a Job.

Mike Cation — Mon, 20 Dec 2021 08:00:00 GMT

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.

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Winner's Circle with Mark Lajal

Mike Cation — Wed, 07 Jun 2023 07:00:00 GMT

Mike sat down with Mark Lajal after he won his first Challenger title at the UAMS Health Little Rock Open. The 20 year old became just the second Estonian to win an ATP Challenger title, behind Jurgen Zopp. We talked about what this means at this stage of his career, handling expectations, and, yes, his hair.

More this week from Tyler, Texas

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In Front of Mental Health Episode 2

Mike Cation — Fri, 24 Jul 2020 09:00:00 GMT

Our Ask Us Anything brought a great question that needed some further discussion. So Dr. Jonathan Katz, Mental Health Advisor and Performance Coach for Behind The Racquet, joins us to answer this question from Jack Wichtendahl:

How do you stay motivated for something you’re not sure is going to come back, and even it does, you know it’s not going to be the same because of the coronavirus?

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The Coffee Cast with Cation: Rajeev Ram Edition

Mike Cation — Thu, 18 Jan 2018 09:18:00 GMT

The pride of Indiana joins me from the Australian Open Player's Lounge (recorded Tuesday afternoon) to talk about the difficulties of playing doubles without a regular partner, and how his anticipation and excitement has changed since his initial Grand Slam.

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YOU GET DEPORTED and YOU GET DEPORTED and...

Mike Cation — Tue, 18 Jan 2022 08:00:00 GMT

Noah joins us from Chile, after winning his first round match this morning, and boy let me tell you, he's got some stories. While Novak's deportation took all the headlines, it was FAR worse in Chile. Hear the story, and catch up with the guys.

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Dispatches from Cary Part 1

Mike Cation — Fri, 13 Nov 2020 09:00:00 GMT

On 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.

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New Balance Winner's Circle with Thanasi Kokkinakis

Mike Cation — Mon, 15 Apr 2024 07:00:00 GMT

Thanasi Kokkinakis sat down with Mike after winning the Elizabeth Moore Sarasota Open, his 6th Challenger Title. We talk about his return to the top 100, and guaranteeing himself a spot in the French Open main draw with a week on an injured foot. He battled tough conditions, tough opponents, and the weight of that main draw throughout the week, and is now headed on his European summer trip.

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What's next with WTA star and Player Council Member Gaby Dabrowski

Mike Cation — Tue, 24 Mar 2020 09:00:00 GMT

Two 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, scheduling, doubles rankings, and how she's coping as a human with all of the questions surrounding her career with the coronavirus delaying tennis, and really, life.

Don't forget our patreon page, www.patreon.com/behindtheracquetpod.

We will get to all of our incredibly generous patreons in our next episode over the weekend. We promise!

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A New Start with Neto

Mike Cation — Thu, 27 Feb 2020 10:00:00 GMT

Things are changing for us. We've rebranded as the Behind the Racquet Pod. And what better guest to get to mark the occasion than Ernesto Escobedo, the first person ever to be featured on Behind the Racquet.

We talk about his decision to be the first on BTR, what it's meant to be a Mexican-American star, and his unique ability with a football.

And don't forget to check out our new patreon page, at patreon.com/BehindtheRacquetPod

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Ben Rothenberg on Australia, Peng Shuai, and the changing world of journalism

Mike Cation — Wed, 29 Dec 2021 09:00:00 GMT

Ben Rothenberg is one of the most well informed, and polarizing figures in the tennis twittersphere. He's a fantastic writer, working for outlets such as the New York Times, as well as being one of the editors of Racquet Magazine. He's also written the definitive story (to this point) on the abuse allegations against Alex Zverev. He's also one of the more polarizing figures in tennis social media circles. We spend about 10 minutes each on:

1) His upcoming trip to Australia

2) the lack of real updates on Peng Shuai

and 3) how he balances his journalism, with his social media presence.

Hope you enjoy!

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The Coffee Cast with Cation: James Duckworth Edition

Mike Cation — Tue, 02 Oct 2018 05:18:00 GMT

5 surgeries in two years. And yet James Duckworth is back, and progressing back toward the top 100, with one Challenger title, and a semifinal last week in Tiburon. The Cary champion tells us about what he did off the court during that time, the perspective he gained, and maybe the low moment in this comeback. We chat over some lowly American coffee, and as always, the company was delightful.

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Behind the Racquet with Federico Gomez

Mike Cation — Tue, 07 Jan 2025 05:22:28 GMT

This podcast drops as Federico Gomez is just about an hour away from his first Australian Open appearance, taking on Joao Fonseca in the first round of qualies here on a Tuesday in Melbourne.

His route is an unusual one, having gone through a junior college to Louisville to the business world path, before breaking out in 2024 with three challenger titles, creeping closer and closer to the top 100 for the first time in his career.

More coming up next week!

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Behind the Racquet with Zachary Svajda

Mike Cation — Tue, 10 Oct 2023 10:00:00 GMT

Zachary Svajda is 20 years old from Southern California, currently ranked 170 in the world. This fall, he won the Cary Challenger, and this past Sunday, he won the Tiburon Challenger for the second straight year.

We talk about his upbringing, his decision to go pro instead of going to college; his strong connections with Roger, Novak, Steve Weissman, and Rick Buchta; and that incredible ball-striking ability.

Hopefully, more coming up from Fairfield this week!

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New Balance Winner's Circle with Reilly Opelka

Mike Cation — Sat, 17 Nov 2018 23:20:00 GMT

Reilly Opelka has picked up two titles in two weeks on the USTA Pro Circuit. But his championship in Champaign means a little more, moving him in to the top 100 for the first time in his career, and gets him in to the main draw at the Australian Open. Hear from him after his title at the JSM Challenger of Champaign-Urbana, as we go inside the New Balance Winner's Circle.

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"Lucky" Loser

Mike Cation — Wed, 25 Aug 2021 09:00:00 GMT

Yeah, 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.

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Exploring the complexities of being an Asian-American on Tour with Thai-Son Kwiatkowski

Mike Cation — Thu, 25 Mar 2021 09:00:00 GMT

After Jeremy Lin's comments recently about being an Asian-American in the NBA, we wanted to explore the same topic in the tennis world, and we brought on Thai-Son Kwiatkowski to dissect the issue. It's never a comfortable discussion, but a pretty damned crucial one.

We also, unexpectedly, went in to some rather deep discussions on the mental health difficulties Thai has faced, and that MANY players on tour are facing, especially those 150+ in the rankings.

As always, we REALLY appreciate your support, texts, tweets, DMs, and all through this last year. Hope we have some more interactions soon!

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To be (A Union) or not to be (A Union)

Mike Cation — Tue, 03 Dec 2019 19:00:00 GMT

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.

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Behind the Racquet with Cooper Williams

Mike Cation — Tue, 04 Jun 2024 08:00:00 GMT

Cooper Williams is an 18 year old originally from New York City. He's currently ranked 1250 on the ATP Tour, but this summer he will no doubt see a massive jump in that part. It's inevitable. He's a former junior world #3, and was a top 10 collegiate talent this past spring at Harvard. That includes an Australian Open doubles title with Learner Tien.

This summer is an important one for Cooper, as he explores the professional tour and sees where he fits in. We certainly expect some big things, and it was great to have him join us on the pod to talk about his transition in to college, what he expects this summer, and shockingly, what Noah meant to his career!

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Behind the Racquet with Johannus Monday

Mike Cation — Thu, 02 Jan 2025 15:00:00 GMT

Johannus Monday enters 2025 at 371 in the world, but as we know on the BTR Pod, the ranking very rarely tells the full story.

The 6'6" lefty has evolved immensely over the last five years, and ended the 2024 season with three straight 25K titles, and a semifinal at the Knoxville Challenger. That was a special one for him, as it was a few months after he graduated from the University of Tennessee.

We talk about he went from an unheralded prospect out of Hull, to one of the most feared players out of the collegiate system in the last few years. He joins Jake Fearnley, Nishsesh Basavareddy, Eliot Spizzirri and others from the 2024 class making their mark at the highest level.

We go over those humble beginnings, how he got to Tennessee, that incredible 2024 class, and what he, and Mike, think he needs to do to be the best version of himself. His goals will surprise you.

Tennis is back....for some. The conundrum for the Challenger players.

Mike Cation — Mon, 03 Aug 2020 09:00:00 GMT

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 visiting patreon.com/behindtheracquetpod

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Wimbledon Whites, and On Court Coaching

Mike Cation — Mon, 24 Jun 2019 20:42:00 GMT

This week, while Noah is competing (and, winning) at Wimbledon qualies, we chat about the clash of tradition of Wimbledon with today's players, especially during qualifying. As well, there's lots of talk about on court coaching at the US Open, and we disagree with none other than Roger Federer. As always, find us online @noahrubin33, and @mikectennis

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Ask Us Anything...Answered!

Mike Cation — Mon, 20 Jul 2020 09:00:00 GMT

-Has tennis helped you get through a tough period in your life?

-Favorite tournaments?

-Superstitions?

-Jewish legacy in tennis?

We hop around quite a bit in this one, but what FANTASTIC QUESTIONS from our patreon supporters this week.

Later this week, expect an episode with Mental Health Advisor and Performance Coach Dr. Jonathan Katz, answering one of the submitted questions.

Thanks so much to our patreon supporters. You can join them, by visiting patreon.com/BehindtheRacquetPod

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Noah takes us Inside a very messy French Open Bubble

Mike Cation — Sun, 20 Sep 2020 17:26:00 GMT

It'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.

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Serena Says Goodbye, and Make Mike Best Man 2024

Mike Cation — Mon, 15 Aug 2022 07:00:00 GMT

We 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.

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Behind the Racquet with Learner Tien

Mike Cation — Mon, 14 Oct 2024 07:00:00 GMT

Learner Tien is 18 years old, has a record of 53-9 this year, which now includes a total of 7 titles, including his third challenger title on Sunday in Fairfield, California.

We had a chat on Monday before the tournament had begun in full, and then we spoke again AFTER he won the title in 39 minutes and 07 seconds, 6-0, 6-1 over Bernard Tomic. Record setting on that one, becoming the shortest completed Challenger Final in history.

We talk about goals, THAT winning streak, and much more.

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Back to Life, Back to Reality

Mike Cation — Mon, 28 Sep 2020 02:53:00 GMT

Noah 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.

HUGE thanks to our latest patreon sponsors, Scott Cole, and Lee Stanley. You can help support the pod by visiting patreon.com/behindtheracquetpod

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Elusive Confidence, and the Difficult of Streaks (and should Novak turn heel?)

Mike Cation — Mon, 15 Jul 2019 21:38:00 GMT

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

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Behind the Racquet with Jill Craybas

Mike Cation — Mon, 04 Mar 2024 22:00:00 GMT

Jill Craybas had an incredible playing career, as a top 40 player in both singles in doubles, a WTA singles title, 5 doubles titles. She's most well known for a win over Serena at Wimbledon in 2002. Since her career ended in 2013, she's become a fantastic commentator at the Slams, as well as for both the ATP and WTA. This week, she'll be one of the courtside reporters for TennisTV.

We chat about her playing career, and how she's brought her inquisitive nature to her reporting and commentary work!

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Behind the Racquet with Brian Koppelman

Mike Cation — Mon, 02 Oct 2023 07:00:00 GMT

Brian 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 us next week!

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Behind the Racquet of Gender Finances with Jamie Loeb

Mike Cation — Mon, 20 Mar 2023 09:00:00 GMT

Jamie Loeb rejoins the show to gives us the full details of what financial inequalities look like at the lower levels of tennis, after Denis Shapovalov helped bring it to light in his recent article. We got in to the intricacies of what that looks like at tournaments that have both men's and women's events at the Challenger level, and how some of the finances break down, and why. We also explored some other reasons WHY the financial inequities might be happening, and most importantly, Mike's daughter Marnie hops on to ask some questions of the Dynamic Jew-o.

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Coffee Cast with Cation: Noah Rubin Edition

Mike Cation — Mon, 10 Jun 2019 15:01:00 GMT

His 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.

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A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Podcast

Mike Cation — Wed, 07 Apr 2021 22:31:00 GMT

Both 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?

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Coffee Cast with Cation: Aleks Vukic Edition

Mike Cation — Mon, 02 Apr 2018 14:24:00 GMT

University of Illinois Senior Aleks Vukic (World #435) joined me last week to discuss the strengths and weaknesses of college tennis, his plans for the summer, and what it's like to be an international player preparing for the NCAA Tournament. Don't forget to subscribe, and help buy our coffee at patreon.com/mikectennis. And if you leave a rating on itunes, it helps us get seen by more and more people!

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New Balance Winner's Circle with Michael Mmoh

Mike Cation — Mon, 01 Oct 2018 06:00:00 GMT

Hear from newly minted Wells Fargo Tiburon Challenger Champion Michael Mmoh, the newest member of the ATP's Top 100. Back to back titles in Columbus and Tiburon get him there for the first time in his career. We play compare and contrast:1) His new and old coaches (Alex Waske and Glenn Weiner) 2) His style of play now vs. 2016 3) and the style of play over the last two weeks. Hear from Mike inside the New Balance Tennis Winner's Circle.

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Behind the Racquet with Eliot Spizzirri

Mike Cation — Wed, 21 Feb 2024 18:00:00 GMT

First, apologies for some of Mike's audio issues in this one. Unfortunately, the wifi in his hotel this past weekend caused a few issues so we're going to ignore the fact that he sounds worse than normal, which is saying a lot.

Here are Eliot's deets:

Age: 22

Rank: ATP 721, ITA (College) #1

Hometown: Greenwich, Connecticut

2023 Collegiate Player of the Year, finishing #1 in singles, #2 in doubles

He will definitely hop in as a Challenger level player quickly once he turns pro at the end of the year.

More coming up next week! Also, happy birthday to the lil fella.

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Update time: Noah talks PTPA, Novak vs the world, and....Sewer Cat

Mike Cation — Mon, 12 Jul 2021 09:00:00 GMT

It'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 Update

6:00- Mike got a cat from the sewer

8:00- Wimby recap, and the Big 3 vs Parity

16:30- The player reaction to Naomi Osaka

22:00- Noah's update on the PTPA

Love y'all, more info on the shirts, and stickers, soon!

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Behind the Racquet with Aleks Kovacevic

Mike Cation — Tue, 13 Feb 2024 09:00:00 GMT

Aleks Kovacevic sat down with Mike before the Dallas Open to discuss finally hitting top 100 after his run through qualies and in to the 2nd round of the Australian Open. At the time of publish, Kova is back outside of the top 100, at 102, after losing some points from the Cleveland Challenger title one year ago. But hitting 85 was just one step on his journey. He's a University of Illinois graduate, his game is gorgeous, and he's got a new coach to help him get to that next level.

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Quick Update on Noah's ankle (yes, again); and Mike's Indian Wells trip. Big guests upcoming...

Mike Cation — Thu, 28 Oct 2021 08:00:00 GMT

Catching up with Noah here after a few weeks off, as the final stretch awaits. Back with new guests and shows next week.

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Michael Mmoh on his Seventh Challenger Title

Mike Cation — Mon, 17 Oct 2022 08:00:00 GMT

It's a seventh Challenger title for Michael Mmoh in Fairfield, California. Immediately after taking home the title, he sat down with Mike to talk about what's changed to bring home his second trophy in two months.

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The Coffee Cast with Cation: Luke Bambridge edition

Mike Cation — Tue, 06 Feb 2018 21:37:00 GMT

On this edition of the Coffee Cast (over water), dubs specialist Luke Bambridge joins me to talk about the doubles life, his latest off court obsession, his feelings about the Tennys Sandgren controversy, and how he's becoming an American in terms of his coffee. Rate, review, and tell your friends. And as always, you can buy our coffee at patreon.com/mikectennis

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New Balance Winner's Circle with Lloyd Harris

Mike Cation — Sun, 05 Aug 2018 22:19:00 GMT

We go inside the New Balance Winner's Circle with Lloyd Harris, winner of the Kentucky Bank Tennis Championships in Lexington, Kentucky

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Ben Shelton on his first Challenger title in Charlottesville

Mike Cation — Tue, 08 Nov 2022 18:47:33 GMT

Mike here. I sat down with Ben immediately following his victory in straights over Christopher Eubanks to talk about playing against his close friend, his expectations for this stretch of tennis, and where he thinks he's most improved.

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Behind the Racquet with Francesca Di Lorenzo

Mike Cation — Wed, 22 Sep 2021 08:00:00 GMT

Ohio 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.

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Coffee Cast with Cation- Tim Smyczek

Mike Cation — Wed, 08 Nov 2017 13:38:00 GMT

I sat down this week with Tim Smyczek, the 29 year old originally from Milwaukee, fresh off of his title in Charlottesville. We talk about coffee, being one of the "old guard", the role of social media, and much more.

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Coffee Cast with Cation- Bjorn Fratangelo

Mike Cation — Sun, 12 Nov 2017 22:24:00 GMT

On a special bonus Coffee Cast with Cation, we talk with Bjorn Fratangelo at Panera about coffee, his travel schedule, social life on tour, and why in the hell people call him FRANtangelo. Join us, and leave a review on itunes!

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Behind the Racquet with Paolo Lorenzi

Mike Cation — Mon, 30 Aug 2021 08:00:00 GMT

Mike here: There are few people that I respect more than Paolo Lorenzi. When I heard that he had made his decision to retire last week here in New York, I can say I was genuinely saddened by the news, but am so, so thrilled that Paolo is moving on to the next phase of his life. He is one of the kindest souls off the court, and one of the more ferocious competitors I've ever witnessed. We discuss this dichotomy, and so much more, on this week's BTRPod, with a BONUS EPISODE TOMORROW!

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Behind the Racquet with Bryan Shelton

Mike Cation — Sun, 03 Sep 2023 20:52:52 GMT

Bryan Shelton is best known at this moment as Ben Shelton's Coach and Father. We chat about Ben's progress, where he can go, how far he's come, and how Bryan and his wife Lisa balanced athletics with "real life" for their two kids.

Bryan is the only coach to win NCAA titles on both the men's and women's side, at Georgia Tech (women) and Florida (men). And, yes, a HECK of a player himself, reaching 55 in the world, with two ATP titles.

I'm really appreciative of Bryan's time, as he likes to keep the focus on his son, as well as his daughter Emma. More from New York next week.

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Catching up in Cary with Krueger

Mike Cation — Tue, 27 Jul 2021 09:00:00 GMT

The 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

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Behind the Racquet with Jamie Loeb

Mike Cation — Tue, 31 Aug 2021 09:00:00 GMT

Jamie Loeb takes the court on Grandstand this afternoon against Iga Swiatek after a gritty, and hard earned qualifying run last week. It's her first main draw appearance at the Open since 2015. And she's really, truly, been through a lot this last year. This is her story of how she's found new perspective, fought through covid, self doubt, and is allowing Jamie Loeb to be Jamie Loeb.

This is the Behind the Racquet Pod

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New Balance Winner's Circle with Thanasi Kokkinakis

Mike Cation — Mon, 13 Aug 2018 01:27:00 GMT

We go inside the New Balance Winner's Circle today with Thanasi Kokkinakis, who ended a 3 year injury-prolonged Trophy drought with a win at the Nordic Naturals Challenger. He talks about how his body is holding up, his immediate plans for Vancouver and the Open, and how he hopes to sustain success for the finishing months of 2018.

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The Coffee Cast: Marc Polmans Edition

Mike Cation — Fri, 04 May 2018 18:03:00 GMT

In the latest edition of the Coffee Cast, I sit down with Marc Polmans, the talented 21-year-old from Melbourne who has had a remarkable 2018, including a 24 match winning streak. We talk about how he handles the Australian Travel burden, what it means to be a competitor, and yes....the hat situation. As always leave a review, and don't forget to support the podcast at patreon.com/mikectennis

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Behind the Racquet with Wimbledon Quarterfinalist (!!!) Christopher Eubanks

Mike Cation — Thu, 20 Jul 2023 20:00:00 GMT

The 27 year old Atlanta resident woke up from a well deserved nap to join us on Wednesday night, and go through how his life has changed in the span of 3 weeks with a first ATP title in Mallorca, and a spirited run to the quarterfinals at Wimbledon.

We go through how he's processing it, the reaction at home in Atlanta, what's changed in his game, and yes, the most remarkable celebrities that reached out.

Lots to cover, so dive in!

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Break Point Part 2, and Behind the Racquet with Alex Bolt

Mike Cation — Mon, 26 Jun 2023 08:00:00 GMT

Noah 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, where we hope he finds some joy. In 2019, at Wimby qualies, he played what some say was the match of the century so far, with Jannik Sinner. We talk about that, his break from tennis early in his career to play footie, and much more.

Bolty is a quiet guy, and we're incredibly appreciative of his time and his willingness to chat.

More next week, before Mike heads to Taylor Freaking Swift.

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Behind the Racquet with Ernesto Escobedo: Why he's now playing for Mexico

Mike Cation — Wed, 01 Feb 2023 23:34:13 GMT

Have to preface all of this by noting that this was recorded the day after Neto qualified in Australia. As a result, it's important to note that it does not have any details regarding this week's Davis Cup news with regard to the Mexican Tennis Federation. He was honest and forthright about his decision and why, and clearly is at peace with the decision he's made.

More coming up next week, including an interview with Canada's Alexis Galarneau.

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Tim Smyczek wins the USTA AO Wild Card

Mike Cation — Thu, 16 Nov 2017 23:35:00 GMT

Hear from Tim Smyczek, whose 6-4, 6-4 win today over Tennys Sandgren clinched the USTA's Australian Open Wild Card berth.

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Behind the Racquet with Alexis Galarneau

Mike Cation — Mon, 27 Feb 2023 10:00:00 GMT

Mike here- This pod got DRASTICALLY delayed (totally on me), but this pod was recorded in Melbourne immediately following qualifying, as Alexis was headed towards the airport. The guy is an incredibly hard worker, super positive, and it was fun learning a little bit more about what took him to NC State (not a traditional tennis powerhouse), and has him inside the top 200 in the world.

More next week!

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New Balance Winner's Circle with Tommy Paul

Mike Cation — Mon, 05 Nov 2018 00:04:00 GMT

It'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 (including Pumpkin), this was a good start. More next week!

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Why American men are making a push; AO TV miscues, Break Point, and a terrible record on Domestic Abuse

Mike Cation — Tue, 07 Feb 2023 09:00:00 GMT

Hey all- In between interviews with Ernesto Escobedo, and Alexis Galarneau, the boys reconvened to chop up the American men at the AO, why the TV coverage was down, and the horrific record tennis is starting to set on domestic violence.

More next week!

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The Coffee Cast with Cation: Thanasi Kokkinakis

Mike Cation — Sun, 13 Jan 2019 10:17:00 GMT

Thanasi and I tried to first record this podcast in August, the week he won a Challenger title in Aptos, California. Time kept getting away from us, but finally, the day after he qualified for the Australian Open, we were able to sit down and chat. We did NOT hammer away at why he didn't get the Wild Card. Thanasi was about to get that question five different ways at a press conference. I did ask him to explain a bit about the politics of tennis in Australia, his rise and fall, and rise again in the tennis ranks, and what it's like being one of the highest profile athletes this week in Melbourne.

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Where in the World is Jared Donaldson?

Mike Cation — Mon, 14 Dec 2020 23:00:00 GMT

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 this week. I promise. I've just been a little out of it the last few days, and need to get down to business.

Stay healthy everyone.

<3 Mike

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Time to make the jump!

Mike Cation — Mon, 05 Aug 2019 09:17:00 GMT

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.

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New Year; Same Mohawk

Mike Cation — Tue, 05 Jan 2021 10:00:00 GMT

A 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 we are, embarking on another season. What's the vibe like in Delray, where Noah kicks off his season in a couple days?

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