Blockbuster WTA Finals field set but will Djokovic make Turin?
With David away on holiday, Catherine and Matt are joined by The Athletic’s Charlie Eccleshare for reaction to the week’s results and some bigger picture reflections on the season. Part one - WTA (00:00 - 44:55). We start by discussing Elena Rybakina’s first title as the World No.1 and her impressive performance to beat Leylah Fernandez in the Ningbo final. Charlie reflects on how Rybakina’s rise to the top has coincided with Aryna Sabalenka’s slump and we take a look at the WTA Finals line-up which got confirmed last week. How weird is it not to see Iga Swiatek there? And how might Elina Svitolina be affected by her split from Gael Monfils and, in particular, the horrible online abuse she’s suffered? Part two - ATP (44:56 - 1:16:45). There’s reaction to Lorenzo Musetti’s stunning title run in Lyon, Daniil Medvedev’s resurgence continuing with a title in Almaty, and Tallon Griekspoor overcoming the change of venue in Brussels to triumph there. We also reflect on the careers of Stan Wawrinka and David Goffin as they come to an end while Matt faces the music after his disastrous performance in Wrexham. Part three (1:16:46 - 1:35:12). A look ahead to this week’s action as the Race for Turin heats up with so many players in contention taking part in Vienna and Basel. Will Djokovic qualify? Finally, there’s reaction to Alejandro Davidovich Fokina getting the call-up for Spain’s Davis Cup Finals squad. For ad-free listening and bonus content, Become a Friend. Check out our new merch shop! Cut The Faff t-shirts are here! Talk tennis with Friends on The Barge! Sign up to receive our free Newsletter (daily at Slams and weekly the rest of the year, featuring Matt’s Stat, mascot photos, Fantasy League updates, and more) Follow us on Instagram (@thetennispodcast) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.