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Nothing Major

Sift Creative

Join former American tennis stars Sam Querrey, John Isner & Steve Johnson as they hope to serve up more laughs than Grand Slam titles on the podcast Nothing Major.

Expect untold tales, a behind the scenes look at life on tour, and relentless banter that only comes from guys who've seen it all (except that elusive major win).

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Avg 42 min
English

Episodes 39

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#220
Monday · 37 min
Alcaraz Rolls in Tokyo, Djokovic’s Beijing Streak, and Sinner’s Mysterious Knee | EP 220
On this episode of Nothing Major, Sam, John, and Stevie open with Sam’s ongoing weigh-in saga as he tries to lose weight ahead of a ranch day featuring horseback riding, fly fishing, and skeet shooting. They also break down the ATP 500s in Tokyo and Beijing, including Carlos Alcaraz’s run to the Tokyo final, his matchup with Jiří Lehečka, and surprising early losses for Taylor Fritz and Tommy Paul. Plus, they explain how Arthur Fils ended up in qualifying despite being a top-10 player, creating a brutal draw for Frances Tiafoe. In Beijing, they discuss Novak Djokovic’s unbeaten record at the tournament and push for Turin, a controversial replay point involving Alexander Zverev and Alex de Minaur’s run to the final. They also get into Jannik Sinner pulling out of Beijing and Shanghai, the limited injury clarity, and what it could mean for the year-end No. 1 race. Follow Nothing Major on Social Media: https://linktr.ee/NothingMajorShow 00:00 Show Intro 00:26 Scale Check Banter 02:34 Ranch Day Plans 03:01 Tokyo 500 Overview 03:22 Alcaraz Form Talk 04:43 Americans Exit Early 05:24 Race Pressure Debate 07:00 Tokyo Final Preview 08:23 Fils Qualifying Chaos 11:17 Beijing Djokovic Streak 13:46 Turin Qualification Impact 16:01 Replay Drama 19:43 De Minaur Final Run 21:02 Beijing Shakeups 21:46 Sinner Asia Withdrawal 22:26 Injury Disclosure Debate 24:32 Zverev Number One Path 26:13 Beijing Prize Money Talk 28:02 Major Opinions Segment 28:14 Medvedev Djokovic Stat 28:59 Serve Bot Zverev 31:03 Shanghai And Nishikori Tribute 32:33 Tour Friendships Stories 34:51 Novak Shanghai Outlook 36:30 Episode Wrap See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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#219
October 1 · 38 min
The New Era of World Team Tennis! Quinn vs Fritz Street Fight & ATP Fantasy Update | EP 219
On this episode of Nothing Major, it’s a two-man pod as Sam Querrey and Stevie hold down the fort, plus Sam shares a Laver Cup travel win after a last-minute upgrade and the guys debate a hypothetical Ethan Quinn vs. Taylor Fritz bar fight. They’re also joined by Steven Amritraj, the CEO of the reimagined World Team Tennis, to break down the league’s December launch, new format, star-studded lineups, fan experience, ticket prices, and coaching element. Plus, they answer fan questions on sleep on tour and interview small talk, update their ATP Fantasy roster, and chat with Roman, the US Open women’s bracket winner. Follow Nothing Major on Social Media: https://linktr.ee/NothingMajorShow 18+ only. Restrictions and eligibility requirements apply. Event contract trading involves significant risk and is not appropriate for everyone. Please carefully consider if it is appropriate for you in light of your personal financial circumstances. Kalshi products are not available in all jurisdictions. See kalshi.com/regulatory for more information. Go to the app store and sign up using promo code: MAJOR: http://kalshi.com/r/major To join ATP Fantasy head to https://play.fantasy.atptour.com/nothingmajor Code to join our Nothing Major league: 981-0H8TX 00:00 Show Preview 00:19 Two Man Pod Catch Up 00:36 Laver Cup Flight Drama 01:17 Bar Fight Debate 02:29 Weigh In Challenge 02:47 Meet WTT CEO 03:35 Amritraj Tennis Journey 06:20 WTT Reimagined Format 10:07 Teams And Star Lineups 12:08 Schedule And Tickets 14:14 Fan Experience And Coaches 18:20 CNBC Deal And Commentary 22:33 Tour Sleep Secrets 25:43 Media Interview Small Talk 27:52 ATP Fantasy Rules Reset 28:56 Building The Fall Squad 31:45 Prizes And Strategy 32:47 Interview With Roman 36:41 Wrap Up And Tease See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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#218
September 28 · 53 min
Europe Defeats Team World! Laver Cup Recap + Alcaraz on Late-Night Finishes | EP 218
On this episode of Nothing Major, the guys recap the Laver Cup with Ethan Quinn filling in for Sam, who checks in from London with the full behind-the-scenes rundown. They break down Team Europe’s 13–5 win, Alcaraz saving match points against Fritz, Europe’s doubles sweep, and what makes Alcaraz so tough to play. They also debate third-set super tiebreaks, discuss Team World’s roster and doubles options, and get an update on Ethan’s foot injury, surgery and rehab. Plus, Nadal and Murray’s Mallorca exhibition, late-night US Open scheduling, Arthur Fils’ qualifying drama, when will Sinner play next, and more. Follow Nothing Major on Social Media: https://linktr.ee/NothingMajorShow 00:00 Welcome and Guest Intro 01:20 Ethan Injury Update 04:58 Coping and Recovery Mindset 07:46 Sam Laver Cup Recap 15:37 Europe Wins Laver Cup 16:05 Third Set Tiebreak Debate 17:29 Friday Highlights 19:13 Facing Jodar Up Close 23:36 Saturday Momentum Swing 26:19 Alcaraz vs Fritz Thriller 28:08 Sunday Wrap and Doubles Story 29:57 Team World Doubles Fixes 31:42 Future Laver Cup Dreams 34:13 Nadal Murray Exhibition 36:01 US Open Late Nights 41:38 Stat Of The Week 43:02 PlayerZone Entry Explained 45:55 Servebot And Querrey 47:18 Bar Fight Rankings 50:01 Beijing Tokyo Outlook 52:28 Wrap Up And Tease See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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#217
September 24 · 44 min
Laver Cup Showdown, Alcaraz & Zverev Lead Europe + Influencer Rankings Update! | EP 217
On this episode of Nothing Major, the guys preview the Laver Cup in London, break down the format and rosters, and debate whether Team World can take down a Europe squad led by Alcaraz and Zverev. Sam also unveils his updated tennis influencer rankings after the US Open, with Paige Lorenze at No. 1 and Sam jumping to No. 3, plus he shares what to expect from his TV duties and travel. They also talk major life moments and retirement transitions, review the new Wilson Defier racket, and answer fan questions on Zverev’s Slam chances, US Open influencers, dream guests and a junior with two forehands. Follow Nothing Major on Social Media: https://linktr.ee/NothingMajorShow Submit your questions in the Fan Participation section at https://www.nothingmajorshow.com/ 00:00 Welcome Back and Agenda 00:46 Rant Give Flags Back 01:43 Tennis Influencer Rankings 04:38 Breakfast and Horse Diet 07:40 Laver Cup Preview 10:28 Teams Matchups and Broadcast Plans 15:10 Hospitality and Event Vibes 16:40 Big Life Moments 19:33 Retirement Transition Talk 21:11 Life After Tour Life 21:54 Advice To Younger Self 23:24 Wilson Racket Review 28:41 Celebrity Flight Story 29:39 Can Zverev Win Slams 31:42 US Open Influencer Debate 33:47 Dream Guests For The Pod 35:44 Two Forehands Prospect 39:51 Podcasts Stealing Bits 41:32 Wrap Up See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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#216
September 21 · 44 min
Davis Cup Exit for US, Ferrero to Come Back & Race for Year End No. 1 | EP 216
The boys are BACK after a little post US Open hiatus, and there’s plenty to catch up on. The US is out of Davis Cup after a wild 3 2 loss to Czechia in Prague, Ben Shelton makes the trip straight from the US Open final, and Holger Rune makes his return after 11 months away. Plus, Juan Carlos Ferrero is returning to coaching, but who’s he going to work with? We make our picks. Sinner lays out a packed schedule as he chases year end No. 1, Zverev has the same goal in mind, Novak makes an unexpected appearance with Kevin Hart, and the guys weigh in on the new Six Queen Slam in Seoul. Also, Sam’s horseback riding weight loss journey begins, Stevie brings back some wild stats, and we settle the most important question of all: Davis Cup or Laver Cup? We have VERY different opinions... as always! 00:00 Nothing Major Returns 02:12 Sam’s Horseback Weight Cut 04:21 US Davis Cup Exit 07:22 The Olympics Rule Debate 13:29 Davis Cup Roundup 14:45 Holger Rune Returns 16:56 Davis Cup Finals 19:52 WTA Guadalajara Recap 21:43 Who Will Ferrero Coach? 25:01 Sinner’s Race to No. 1 26:48 The Six Kings vs. Queens 28:40 Novak’s Kevin Hart Interview 30:52 Six Queen Slam Debate 33:06 Eala vs. WTA Rules 36:57 Stevie’s Stats & Novak’s Outlook 39:43 Davis Cup vs. Laver Cup 41:00 Bracket Challenge Winners 42:10 Wrap Up & Next Episode See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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#215
September 14 · 30 min
Zverev & Rybakina are your US Open Champions! | US Open Something Major Finals | EP 215
On this episode of Something Major, Sam, John, and Stevie break down the US Open finals, starting with Alexander Zverev’s four-set win over Ben Shelton, an early break, a lopsided second-set tiebreak, and a crucial 24-shot rally that helped turn the match. They discuss Zverev’s return tactics, his ability to take pace off the ball, and the strange moment he didn’t realize he’d won. On the women’s side, they recap Elena Rybakina’s three-set win over Aryna Sabalenka, focusing on her first-strike tennis, composure, and Sabalenka’s frustration. Plus, they cover the US Open celebrity scene, scheduling against the NFL, travel routines, Shelton’s breakout, Fritz’s disappointment, tournament takeaways, and the final bracket challenge results. 18+ only. Restrictions and eligibility requirements apply. Event contract trading involves significant risk and is not appropriate for everyone. Please carefully consider if it is appropriate for you in light of your personal financial circumstances. Kalshi products are not available in all jurisdictions. See kalshi.com/regulatory for more information. Go to the app store and sign up using promo code: MAJOR: http://kalshi.com/r/major Get an exclusive NordVPN deal + 4 months extra here ➼https://nordvpn.com/nothingmajor It’s risk free with NordVPN’s 30-day money-back guarantee! Get an exclusive 15% discount on your first Saily data plans! Use code nothing major at checkout. Download Saily app or go to https://saily.com/nothingmajor Follow Nothing Major on Social Media: https://linktr.ee/NothingMajorShow 00:00 Cold Open and Setup 00:23 Mens Final Scoreline 00:44 Early Break and Nerves 02:00 Tiebreak Turns the Crowd 03:34 Third Set Hope 04:51 Fourth Set Deflation 05:51 Funny Match Point Confusion 06:25 Return Game and Matchup 09:32 Ben Future and Adjustments 13:11 Celebs and Scheduling Talk 18:11 Women’s Final Breakdown 19:41 Emotions and Camera Debate 22:16 Celebs and Tennis Trend 23:22 US Open Big Picture 25:56 Takeaways and Disappointments 27:00 Bracket Results and Fan Winners 28:40 Wrap Up and Asia Swing See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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#214
September 12 · 37 min
Can Ben Shelton Break The Streak?! | US Open Something Major SF's | EP 214
On this episode of Nothing Major, Sam, John, and Stevie break down US Open Semifinal Friday, starting with Sam’s courtside observations, an influencer rant, and a stacked celebrity crowd. They recap Ben Shelton’s four-set win over Frances Tiafoe which featured a disputed 158-mph serve reading, before discussing what Tiafoe’s summer means going forward. Plus, they cover Zverev’s straight-sets win over Khachanov, his heavy baseline game, huge serving numbers, and lengthy pre-serve bounces, along with Sam’s on-court interview where Zverev shouts out the podcast. On the women’s side, they recap Sabalenka overpowering Pegula and Rybakina rallying past Gauff behind a dominant serve before previewing the finals: Zverev vs. Shelton and Sabalenka vs. Rybakina, with predictions and bracket challenge talk. 18+ only. Restrictions and eligibility requirements apply. Event contract trading involves significant risk and is not appropriate for everyone. Please carefully consider if it is appropriate for you in light of your personal financial circumstances. Kalshi products are not available in all jurisdictions. See kalshi.com/regulatory for more information. Go to the app store and sign up using promo code: MAJOR: http://kalshi.com/r/major Follow Nothing Major on Social Media: https://linktr.ee/NothingMajorShow 00:00 Semifinal Friday Kickoff 00:31 Influencer Courtside Rant 01:54 Celeb Spotting Buzz 02:21 Shelton Beats Tiafoe 04:39 Serve Speed Controversy 05:26 Tiafoe Next Steps 06:42 Trinity Rodman Talk 07:36 Zverev Tops Khachanov 09:33 Zverev Serve And Baseline 12:58 On Court Interview Shoutout 13:46 Scheduling Rant Follow Up 14:23 Dinner Tip Venmo Drama 17:48 Sabalenka Powers Past Pegula 19:20 Why Sabalenka Dominated 21:14 Rybakina Stuns Coco 22:59 Midriff And Monster Serve 24:29 Mens Final Zverev vs Shelton 28:29 Predictions And Matchup Keys 32:04 Womens Final Picks 33:54 Bracket Chaos 35:46 Shoutouts And Signoff See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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#213
September 10 · 45 min
Shelton’s All-Time Performance in Epic QF Classic | US Open Something Major QF's | EP 213
On this episode of Something Major from the US Open, Sam, John, and Stevie break down the late-night scheduling backlash and why there’s no perfect solution after a “perfect storm” slate pushed Ben Shelton vs. Carlos Alcaraz deep into the night. They also recap Shelton’s huge, fearless win over Alcaraz—his first top-three Slam win, highlighting his improved return, fitness, and clutch fifth-set tiebreak, plus Alcaraz’s classy response in defeat. The guys cover Frances Tiafoe’s five-set comeback over Alex Michelsen,, Zverev’s straight-sets win and Khachanov advancing via retirement. Plus, they discuss Rybakina reaching world No. 1, Coco Gauff saving match points vs. Andreeva, Sabalenka’s gutsy win, and Pegula’s consistency before previewing the semifinals and making their picks. 18+ only. Restrictions and eligibility requirements apply. Event contract trading involves significant risk and is not appropriate for everyone. Please carefully consider if it is appropriate for you in light of your personal financial circumstances. Kalshi products are not available in all jurisdictions. See kalshi.com/regulatory for more information. Go to the app store and sign up using promo code: MAJOR: http://kalshi.com/r/major Follow Nothing Major on Social Media: https://linktr.ee/NothingMajorShow 00:00 Show Teaser 00:29 Late Night Scheduling Debate 04:38 Shelton Stuns Alcaraz 12:48 Tiafoe Epic Comeback 18:51 Men’s QF Roundup 23:17 Rybakina Reaches No 1 25:12 Coco Coaster Setup 25:35 Coco Survives Andreeva 26:06 Night Pod Chaos 26:23 Coco Finds A Way 27:42 Sabalenka Gutsy Escape 29:15 Pegula Powers Through 30:39 Billionaire Narrative Rant 34:27 Zverev Khachanov Preview 35:13 Shelton Tiafoe Hype 39:59 WTA Semis Picks 42:38 Bracket Challenge Update 43:55 Wrap And Goodbyes See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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#212
September 8 · 35 min
Shelton Set for Alcaraz Clash, Coco Gauff on Fire | US Open Something Major Round of 16 | EP 212
On this episode of Something Major from the US Open, Sam, John, and Stevie recap Sam battling exhaustion after covering Khachanov’s five-set win over Learner Tien, Carlos Alcaraz cruising past Tommy Paul, and Ben Shelton dominating Stefanos Tsitsipas. They also cover Frances Tiafoe’s electric upset of Daniil Medvedev, Zverev finding form in night sessions, Alex Michelson reaching the quarters without dropping a set, and Van de Zandschulp’s comeback from two sets down. Plus, the crew breaks down Coco Gauff’s win over Jovic, Pegula and Navarro setting up an all-American quarterfinal, Zheng’s comeback over Swiatek, and Rybakina routing Osaka. They also preview key quarterfinal matchups including the Shelton v Alcaraz blockbuster! 18+ only. Restrictions and eligibility requirements apply. Event contract trading involves significant risk and is not appropriate for everyone. Please carefully consider if it is appropriate for you in light of your personal financial circumstances. Kalshi products are not available in all jurisdictions. See kalshi.com/regulatory for more information. Go to the app store and sign up using promo code: MAJOR: http://kalshi.com/r/major Follow Nothing Major on Social Media: https://linktr.ee/NothingMajorShow 00:00 Round of 16 Kickoff 00:12 Crispy Check In 01:47 Celebs Then Tennis 01:58 Alcaraz Back Statement 04:20 Shelton Stuns Tsitsipas 06:14 Tiafoe Topples Medvedev 08:27 Zverev Night Session Roll 10:33 Khachanov Survives Tien 12:24 Michelsen Quiet Surge 13:49 Ash Scheduling Debate 14:54 Lucky Loser Heartbreak 18:25 Gauff 19:46 Pegula Navarro Set Up 20:59 Zheng Comeback Chaos 22:47 Quick Hits And Fashion 23:36 Shelton Alcaraz Preview 26:02 Tiafoe Michelson 29:57 Womens Semis Picks 33:02 Bracket Update And Wrap See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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#211
September 6 · 38 min
Alcaraz Unstoppable? Keys Collapse, Tommy Pauls Revenge | US Open Something Major Round 3 | EP 211
On this episode of Something Major from the US Open, Sam, John, and Stevie recap Taylor Fritz’s five-set loss to Cerundolo after leading two sets, Carlos Alcaraz even practicing after his win, and Tommy Paul getting revenge on Alexander Bublik. They also cover Alexander Blockx dominating Cobolli and Tsitsipas finding form ahead of Ben Shelton. Plus, the crew breaks down Madison Keys’ brutal 5-0 third-set collapse to Qinwen Zheng, and runs through wins and losses for Navarro, Sabalenka, Pegula, Anisimova, and others. They preview key Round of 16 matchups and share the latest bracket standings. 18+ only. Restrictions and eligibility requirements apply. Event contract trading involves significant risk and is not appropriate for everyone. Please carefully consider if it is appropriate for you in light of your personal financial circumstances. Kalshi products are not available in all jurisdictions. See kalshi.com/regulatory for more information. Go to the app store or www.Kalshi.com and sign up. Promo code: MAJOR http://kalshi.com/r/MAJOR Follow Nothing Major on Social Media: https://linktr.ee/NothingMajorShow 00:00 Round Three Kickoff 00:24 Too Many Dogs Debate 01:36 Celebrity Open Roll Call 02:43 Fritz Collapse Breakdown 06:52 Alcaraz Undershirt Talk 09:43 Tommy Paul Survives Bublik 12:00 Blockx Buzz And Juiced Radar 14:33 Tsitsipas One Hander Streak 18:46 Other Americans Quick Hits 19:00 Shelton vs Shapovalov 20:18 Keys Third Set Collapse 23:53 Pegula Grit And Schedule 26:06 Alcaraz vs Paul Preview 29:13 Shelton vs Tsitsipas 30:35 Medvedev vs Tiafoe Hype 33:09 Navarro vs Kalinskaya Pick 36:00 Bracket Ranks And Signoff See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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#210
September 4 · 41 min
Alcaraz Rolling, Zverev Survives, Eala Looking Strong | US Open Something Major Round 2 | EP 210
On this episode of Something Major from the US Open, Sam, John, and Stevie debate Zverev’s form, time on court, and late-night scheduling before reacting to Rafa Jodar’s surprising first-round collapse. They also praise Carlos Alcaraz for rolling after a slow start, while covering Felix Auger-Aliassime’s loss to Khachanov, Dane Sweeny’s upset of Musetti, and Alex Michelsen’s rout of Brandon Nakashima. The crew runs through another strong day for the Americans, with Shelton, Fritz, Tiafoe, and Tommy Paul all advancing, plus Paul’s incredible around-the-net-post highlight. Plus, they discuss Monfils’ US Open farewell, cannabis complaints, Alcaraz calling for longer breaks, Madi Keys’ wild comeback, and preview key third-round matchups, including a wide-open section guaranteed to produce a first-time men’s quarterfinalist. 18+ only. Restrictions and eligibility requirements apply. Event contract trading involves significant risk and is not appropriate for everyone. Please carefully consider if it is appropriate for you in light of your personal financial circumstances. Kalshi products are not available in all jurisdictions. See kalshi.com/regulatory for more information. Go to the app store or www.Kalshi.com and sign up. Promo code: MAJOR http://kalshi.com/r/MAJOR Get an exclusive NordVPN deal + 4 months extra here ➼https://nordvpn.com/nothingmajor It’s risk free with NordVPN’s 30-day money-back guarantee! Follow Nothing Major on Social Media: https://linktr.ee/NothingMajorShow 00:00 Show Intro 00:52 Celebrity Spotting 03:04 Zverev Night Match 06:47 Jodar Shock Exit 09:37 Alcaraz Shakes Rust 11:49 FAA Upset Talk 13:21 Sweeny Stuns Musetti 15:20 Michelsen Beats Nakashima 18:46 Shelton Survives Hurkacz 20:32 Fritz Serve Bot Joke 21:34 Tiafoe Survives Straight Sets 22:22 Tommy Paul Shot Magic 23:29 Tien Ends Monfils Era 24:31 Seeds Check Medvedev Buzz 25:22 Cannabis Smell Debate 26:30 Alcaraz Breaks And Burnout 28:01 WTA Seeds And Keys Escape 33:24 Round Three Matchups Preview 37:43 Bracket Pool Standings 38:27 Wrap Up See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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#209
September 2 · 35 min
Alcaraz Ready to Rule NYC, Father Time Catching Novak? | US Open Something Major Round 1 | EP 209
On this first episode of Something Major from the US Open, Sam, John, and Stevie recap all the first-round action, starting with Novak Djokovic’s shocking five-set loss to Navone after looking physically unwell and vomiting on court. The guys debate whether age or illness is behind his recent struggles before breaking down Carlos Alcaraz’s straight-sets win over Safiullin, Tsitsipas’ comeback against Arthur Fils, and Stan Wawrinka’s final major match in a loss to Berrettini. The crew also runs through the American roundup, with Ben Shelton surviving a rough start, Frances Tiafoe escaping in five, and Learner Tien, Brandon Nakashima, and Alex Michelsen cruising through. Plus, they preview key second-round matchups, make bracket updates, and bring the late-night “Ron Burgundy” name-reading chaos. 18+ only. Restrictions and eligibility requirements apply. Event contract trading involves significant risk and is not appropriate for everyone. Please carefully consider if it is appropriate for you in light of your personal financial circumstances. Kalshi products are not available in all jurisdictions. See kalshi.com/regulatory for more information. Get an exclusive 15% discount on your first Saily data plans! Use code nothing major at checkout. Download Saily app or go to https://saily.com/nothingmajor 00:00 Cold Open and Setup 00:36 Djokovic Shock Exit 05:25 Celebrity Jumbotron 06:05 Alcaraz Returns in Style 11:27 Tsitsipas Stuns Fils 13:37 Wawrinka Farewell vs Berrettini 15:04 Monfils Show and Next Test 16:34 Shelton Survives Slow Start 17:44 Tiafoe Five Set Escape 19:02 Other Americans Roll 19:08 Nakashima vs Michelsen Hype 19:51 American Men Round One Recap 20:32 Zverev Scoreboard Watch 21:05 Women Seeds Hold Serve 22:17 Osaka Outfit Talk 22:54 Shelton vs Hurkacz Breakdown 24:31 Tiafoe Matchup and App Feature 26:31 Other Round Two Blockbusters 28:38 Ron Burgundy 30:27 Women's Round Two 33:04 Bracket Update and Signoff See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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#208
August 27 · 45 min
US Open Wildcard Jack Kennedy Joins! Alcaraz Favourite? Eala Mania Hits NYC | EP 208
Tune in Tuesday for the start of Something Major! On this episode of Nothing Major, the guys sit down with junior standout Jack Kennedy, the Kalamazoo boys’ 18s champion who earned a wild card into the 2026 US Open, his pro run including a win over Kei Nishikori, and making his first Slam main draw in his New York backyard. They also hit on his UVA commitment, postponing college until January to play more pro events, and his push for the Next Gen Finals. Plus, the guys dive deep into their US Open preview, breaking down Djokovic’s chances, Alcaraz’s star power and the players who could make a run in New York, before tackling an unpredictable women’s draw. They also break down IBM’s new “serve quality” tracking, shout out Tennis Warehouse, and bring back the Singapore job saga for another chaotic twist. 00:00 Show Intro and Preview 00:31 Meet Jack Kennedy 01:20 Kalamazoo Final Recap 02:46 Three Out of Five Prep 04:28 Turning Pro Confidence 07:24 Home Slam Dreams 08:47 Main Draw Mindset 11:48 Starstruck Moments 14:57 Draw Hopes and Big Stage 16:42 Prize Money and Spending 18:10 Why Virginia Chose Him 19:34 Balancing College and Pros 21:17 Recruiting Storytime 24:27 Rapid Fire Favorites 25:47 Interview Wrap and Thanks 27:14 IBM Serve Quality Tech 28:52 Serve Quality Predictions 29:19 Serve Quality Standouts 30:15 Zverev Serve Metrics 30:46 Seeding Confusion Spiral 32:16 IBM App Serve Tracking 33:06 Mens Title Favorites 33:17 Djokovic Last Chance Talk 34:33 Alcaraz Star Power 36:02 Prize Money Boost 36:25 Womens Favorites Debate 38:14 Eala Mania Scheduling 39:46 Bracket Draw Plans 40:10 Singapore Life Advice Update 43:49 Sam Gets Roasted 44:34 See You In New York See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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#207
August 24 · 41 min
Alcaraz Returns, Sinner Out, Fils & Gauff Triumph | EP 207
Tune in Thursday for an interview with US Open Wildcard, Jack Kennedy! On this episode of Nothing Major, the guys recap Cincinnati as Artur Fils powers to his first Masters title over Frances Tiafoe, including a wild 6-0 third set, and discuss why the event felt wide open without Sinner and Alcaraz. They also hit on Brandon Nakashima’s continued hard-court surge, Tommy Paul’s win over Zverev, and what it all means heading into New York. On the women’s side, Coco Gauff beats Jessie Pegula in a dominant final and the group debates whether Coco is now the favorite for the US Open. Plus, they break down the latest US Open news, including Alcaraz officially returning and teaming with Serena Williams in mixed doubles, Sinner pulling out, wild cards, Kyrgios controversy, and a few chaotic off-court stories. 00:00 Packed Episode Preview 00:29 Cincinnati Masters Winner 01:04 Artur Fils Breakthrough 02:32 Open Odds Debate 03:59 Final Drama and Tiafoe 05:15 Nakashima Rising Fast 08:30 Zverev Confidence Check 09:57 Wild Flight Home Story 12:28 Groin Injury Update 13:58 Coco Gauff Dominates 18:29 Major News Alcaraz Returns 22:04 Serena Carlos Mixed Doubles 24:12 Rigged Draw Jokes 24:48 Sinner Withdraws Injured 26:30 US Open Wild Card Debate 30:16 Kyrgios Controversy Fallout 33:18 NYC Plans 34:41 Stats Ostapenko Streak 35:29 Serve Bot And US Open Picks 40:45 Wrap Up And Next Episode See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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#206
August 20 · 52 min
Is Novak as Competitive as Michael Jordan? Untold Federer Stories & ATP Bar Fight Draft | EP 206
Submit your questions or life advice to Nothing Major through the fan participation section at https://www.nothingmajorshow.com/ On this Thursday episode of Nothing Major, Sam, John, and Stevie sit down with director Jason Hehir (The Last Dance) to break down his new Amazon feature doc Novak Djokovic: The Wolf in Winter. Hehir explains how the project began in 2017, how he came aboard in 2023, the challenges of filming a story unfolding in real time, and why the original concept “The Two Novaks” evolved into The Wolf in Winter. They also discuss the trust-building process with Novak, the similarities and differences between Djokovic and Michael Jordan, and what surprised Hehir most about Novak as a father and competitor. Plus, the guys launch a new Sam segment: a snake draft of current top-100 players they least want on their team in a pool-table bar fight. Finally, they preview Roger Federer’s upcoming Hall of Fame induction, sharing behind-the-scenes stories about how approachable and normal Roger is off court. 00:00 Show Intro and Preview 01:26 Jason Hehir Joins 01:48 How the Doc Began 04:56 Tennis Background and Early Career 06:35 Building the Story Live 11:32 Budget and Scope Choices 13:17 Why Wolf in Winter 17:12 Novak Off Court 19:46 Mindset and Self Rivalry 21:45 Jordan vs Novak Comparisons 27:15 Final Cut and Notes 29:56 Crashing the Big Three Party 31:55 Interview Wrap and Reactions 34:31 Sam Bar Fight Draft 36:07 Nice Guys Draft Picks 36:35 More Soft Picks 37:38 Novak Debate 38:26 Colman Wong Pick 41:55 Federer Hall Of Fame 43:33 Federer Stories 45:38 Exhibition Travel Tales 49:17 Who Introduces Roger 49:59 Wrap Up And Rage Bait See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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#205
August 17 · 48 min
Shelton Supreme, Djokovic Despair & Eala Takes Over | EP 205
Upgrade your online protection with an all-in-one security app! Get an exclusive NordVPN deal + 4 months extra here ➼https://nordvpn.com/nothingmajor It’s risk free with NordVPN’s 30-day money-back guarantee! Submit your questions or life advice to Nothing Major through the fan participation section at https://www.nothingmajorshow.com/ On this episode of Nothing Major, Sam checks in from Cincinnati and shares the perks (and grime) of the Great Wolf Lodge before the guys break down an all-American Masters final in Montreal, Ben Shelton’s dominant title defense without dropping a set, and Brandon Nakashima’s breakthrough week. They also discuss the rise of college-to-pro tennis and what it means for the next generation. In Toronto, they dive into Iga Swiatek’s “vintage” run, her 12th WTA 1000 title, and what it means for the US Open and WTA Finals race. Plus, they react to Djokovic’s brutal three-set loss, Shelton’s early upset, Zverev as the favorite with stars absent, Fritz’s racket smash, Draper’s candid struggles, and whether anyone should still be complaining about 12-day Masters events. 00:00 Show kickoff 00:40 Cincy perks and Great Wolf 02:20 College tennis surge 06:44 All American Montreal final 09:23 Shelton return breakthrough 12:42 Defending champ in new city 15:25 Iga back in Toronto 18:39 WTA race and Asian swing 22:36 Cincinnati chaos and Novak buzz 25:49 Novak Health Watch 27:20 Shelton Upset Reaction 28:32 Jodar Drama Comeback 30:26 Zverev Favorite Debate 33:37 Draper Injury Struggles 37:21 Olympics Schedule Rant 41:36 Fritz Racket Smash 43:11 Servebot Shelton Stats 43:57 Masters Format Acceptance 46:16 Eala Mania Tickets 46:54 Wrap And Next Ep Preview See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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#204
August 13 · 38 min
Cincy The New 5th Slam?, Canadian Pet Peeves & Awkward Life Advice | EP 204
Submit your questions or life advice to Nothing Major through the fan participation section at https://www.nothingmajorshow.com/ On this episode of Nothing Major, Sam returns from a whirlwind Cincinnati trip, complete with a no-training 5K and an awkward realization that Jannik Sinner had just pulled out of the tournament. The guys settle into a fun show covering Canadian pet peeves in honor of the Canadian Masters, from surprise tax bills and stacked restaurant taxes to the Queen still appearing on currency, no AC in Montreal, and the metric system. They also preview Cincinnati with both Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz out, debating who’s actually the favorite while considering Zverev and Novak, and praising Cincinnati’s player amenities, food, upgrades, and Skyline Chili. Plus, they tackle life advice on whether a dad should ever “let” his 17-year-old win, how to handle witnessing an awkward locker room moment and pitch a tennis version of golf’s Internet Invitational featuring influencers, personalities, and a prize purse. 00:00 Cold Open Chaos 00:28 Show Setup and Segments 00:51 Sam’s Cincinnati 5K Recap 02:27 Credentials Awkward Moment 04:15 Canadian Pet Peeves Draft 13:57 Cincy Preview and Punishments 15:12 Who’s the Cincy Favorite 17:42 Is Cincinnati the Best Masters 19:24 Player Perks Tour 20:18 Snack Grab Controversy 21:18 Activities And Investment 22:19 Cincy Food Debate 27:46 Life Advice Begins 28:42 Let Him Win 30:31 Locker Room Secret 32:43 Tennis Influencer Event 37:41 Wrap Up And Next Show See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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#203
August 10 · 48 min
Montreal Carnage, Gen Z Takes Over & the WTA No. 1 Race | Nothing Major EP 203
Canada has turned into a full-on bloodbath. Djokovic, Sinner and Alcaraz were already missing, and then plenty of the “safe” top seeds followed them out the door. Zverev calls his loss to Griekspoor his “worst match of the season,” Fritz looks cooked after his Monday final in DC, and Félix doesn’t even make it on court in his hometown because of a back issue. The result? A wide-open Masters with a historic last eight: for the first time, every Masters 1000 quarterfinalist was born in 2000 or later, with 25-year-old Brandon Nakashima somehow the elder statesman. We break down Shelton vs. Mensik, Jodar’s rapid rise, why Canada creates so much chaos, and which young player has the biggest opportunity this week. On the women’s side, Toronto finally delivers the heavyweight matchups. We look at the draw while debating Sabalenka’s recent losses, whether Iga is starting to turn things around, and a wide-open race to finish the year at No. 1. Then it’s on to Cincinnati. How concerning is Sinner’s withdrawal ahead of the US Open? John thinks it matters; Stevie is waiting to see what the New York practice-court cameras tell us. Plus, Sam somehow turns his “query” into an Ealamania discussion... and, for once, we all agree! 00:00 Show Preview 02:00 Montreal Is Absolute Chaos! 05:20 Zverev’s “Worst Match” 08:15 The Gen Z TakeOver 09:22 Did Fritz Run Out of Gas? 11:27 Montreal Quarterfinals 13:25 Shelton vs. Menšík 14:59 Jodar’s Rise + The Fils Test 18:44 Why So Many Upsets in Canada? 22:44 WTA Toronto 23:17 What’s Going On With Sabalenka? 25:14 Quarterfinals Breakdown 26:09 The No. 1 Race Is Wide Open 29:35 Sinner Pulls Out of Cincinnati 34:10 Cincy + Venus & Serena 36:18 Big Foe’s Hand Surgery 42:04 Stevie Stat's 43:04 Shelton gets Servebot of the Week 47:09 That’s a Wrap! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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#202
August 6 · 59 min
Eva Lys Joins the Pod, Eala’s Potential & Imagining Right-Handed Rafa | EP 202
Career-high No. 39 Eva Lys is our guest for one of our favorite conversations of the year. We chat about growing up with her dad as a coach, the friends she’s made on Tour, and why her social media works without ever feeling forced. She also opens up about the financial reality of life on Tour, balancing sponsorships with tennis, and why WTA is more exciting than ATP. Before Eva joins us, we break down a huge week in Washington. Alex Eala's incredible title run has everyone asking just how high her ceiling really is, while Taylor Fritz proves once again why the North American hard courts bring out his best. We also answer your fan questions, including whether a right-handed Rafa would still be one of the greatest players ever. Plus, how Alcaraz's new No. 3 seeding could shake up the US Open draw, dating apps for tennis players, an extremely serious ranking of Carlos' many hairstyles... and, somehow, a draft of the songs guaranteed to get every white person singing at full volume. 00:00 We're Back! 01:56 Fritz Does It Again 04:29 Eala Mania Arrives 04:59 White People Songs 10:14 Welcoming Eva Lys 11:15 Growing Up Around Tennis 12:24 Life Beyond the Tour 13:22 Friends on Tour 14:58 Favorite Cities on Tour 16:12 Social Media Without the Cringe 17:43 Rating Eva as an Influencer 19:17 Why the WTA Is So Open 21:05 Breakthrough Moments 22:20 Tour's Most Underrated Players 24:48 WTA vs. ATP 26:38 When Social Media Becomes Your Job 28:08 Sponsorships Behind the Scenes 29:09 The Financial Reality of Injuries 30:25 Instagram vs. TikTok 31:28 Prize Money Perspective 33:17 The Great Airline Miles Debate 34:45 Reality TV Draft 41:57 One Last Challenge 47:22 Wimbledon Bracket Winners 48:31 Fan Questions 48:31 Carlos as Seed No. 3? 51:29 What if Rafa was Right-Handed? 54:32 Dating Apps on Tour 55:57 Ranking Carlos Alcaraz's Hairstyles 58:20 See You Next Week! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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#201
August 3 · 40 min
Servebot Fritz Triumphs in DC, Eala's Magic Run & Canada Open Preview | EP 201
The boys are back together after a few days in Los Cabos, with plenty of stories to tell before diving into a packed week on Tour... and there's a lot to catch up on! Taylor Fritz wants to join the Servebot Club and proves himself after another big week in Washington, while Brandon Nakashima and Alex Michelsen continue building momentum. The guys also give a shoutout to Arthur Gea and Alexandra Eala's amazing runs. There's plenty of news to get through too, including Djokovic's return in Cincinnati, the stacked US Open Mixed Doubles field, and why Team World might have the edge at this year's Laver Cup. Plus, Sam's failed fasting experiment, Alcaraz's new hairstyle, Cabo behind-the-scenes stories, and enough laughs to keep the group chat busy for another week. 00:00 The Boys Are Back 00:57 Washington Finals Preview 01:28 Is Taylor Fritz Back? 02:39 A Tough Week for the Americans 04:21 Nakashima and Michelsen on the Rise 06:13 Jodar Breakthrough Run 08:14 Los Cabos Stories From Behind the Scenes 11:01 Arthur Gea Wins Los Cabos 15:17 Alex Eala's Breakthrough Week 19:42 Sam's Failed Fast and Cabo Chaos 20:34 A Quick Memphis Shoutout 21:18 Major News 21:24 Korda Undergoes Back Surgery 23:18 Cincinnati's Loaded Field 24:09 US Open Mixed Doubles Preview 27:10 Carlos Alcaraz's New Look 28:48 Laver Cup Picks 30:49 Stevie's Stats 31:34 Bot of the Week 33:33 Canada Masters Preview 37:44 Zverev Chasing No. 1 39:19 See You On Thursday! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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