Maria Sharapova and Tennis Players Launch New Podcasts

Professional tennis players, former Grand Slam champions, and tour veterans are increasingly bypassing traditional broadcast networks to host their own audio and video programs, transforming how fans consume insights about the ATP and WTA tours. According to a report by tennis MAGAZIN, the medium has expanded far beyond a digital novelty into a core arena for player-led storytelling, tactical breakdowns, and candid discussions about mental health on the circuit.

Maria Sharapova Launches Video Series

Former world number one Maria Sharapova entered the digital broadcasting space in April 2026 with the launch of her video podcast, titled “Pretty Tough”. During an appearance on the US-based Today show, the five-time major singles champion explained the inspiration behind the title. “Pretty Tough is a mentality that has defined my career for many years,” the 39-year-old said in April 2026.

The production features exclusively female guests spanning business, sports, and entertainment. In New York, Sharapova hosted a live recording alongside comedian and podcaster Hannah Berner to mark the twentieth anniversary of her US Open singles triumph. An episode featuring Philippine tennis star Alexandra Eala drew more than 900,000 views on YouTube, making it the program’s most-watched installment to date. Eala noted during the appearance that Sharapova served as her childhood idol.

Caroline Garcia and Tour Insider Discussions

Former world number four Caroline Garcia established her own interview format alongside her husband, Borja Duran, releasing its debut episode in February 2024 before concluding her professional playing career at the US Open in New York in August 2025. The French competitor used the platform to address the psychological toll of professional competition, featuring former world number two Ons Jabeur as her inaugural guest.

Parallel formats like the “Tennis Insider Club” regularly bring current top-ten competitors—including Elena Rybakina, Jessica Pegula, and Taylor Fritz—alongside coaches such as Darren Cahill, Brad Gilbert, Patrick Mouratoglou, and Ivan Ljubicic to discuss identity away from the court. Former world number two Paula Badosa utilized appearances across late 2025 and early 2026 to speak publicly about managing mental health demands within the sport.

Andy Roddick and Kim Clijsters Expand Network Reach

Former US Open winner Andy Roddick teamed up with sports journalist Jon Wertheim in January 2024 to launch “Served with Andy Roddick”. The show covers tour controversies and news alongside guests ranging from historical figures like Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, Andy Murray, and Andre Agassi to rising competitors such as Iva Jovic and Mirra Andreeva.

Roddick’s production house, Served Media LLC, also encompasses “Love all with Kim Clijsters,” co-hosted by the four-time Grand Slam winner and tennis reporter Blair Henley. Clijsters integrates her perspective as a former world number one into weekly analysis of both the men’s and women’s professional circuits.

Locker Room Perspectives from Active Competitors

Active players took control of the format during the US Open in 2025 with the introduction of “The Players Box”. The program is hosted by Jessica Pegula, Madison Keys, Jennifer Brady, and Desirae Krawczyk.

The show delivers travel anecdotes, tournament reflections, and weekly headline reactions. Guests have included Coco Gauff and Alexandra Eala. The hosts expanded the project by staging live editions in Paris, London, and New York during the current season.

German-Language Analysis Led by Boris Becker and Andrea Petkovic

In the German-language market, “Becker Petkovic” emerged as the leading tennis podcast following its debut in January 2025. Co-hosted by former world number one and three-time Wimbledon champion Boris Becker and former top-ten player Andrea Petkovic, the series addresses domestic and international tour developments, with guest appearances from German tennis figures Barbara Rittner and Angelique Kerber.

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