Three-time US Open Champion Joe Salisbury joined me before the start of this year's tournament to discuss his athleticism, doubles partnership with Neal Skupski, college tennis experience, and more.

Tomorrow, Joe and Neal play in the US Open Final on ESPN. Here's what we discussed before the tournament.

• Attributes his exceptional athleticism to his parents and playing multiple sports growing up
• Credits natural instincts and mobility work for his remarkable court speed and movement
• Explains how he and Neal Skupski overcame early challenges through patience and communication
• Emphasizes college tennis at Memphis as crucial for his development as both a person and a player
• College tennis as a viable pathway, especially for doubles
• His different mindset approach to mixed doubles versus men's doubles
• Shares a thoughtful perspective on the US Open mixed doubles format
• Focuses on winning major tournaments rather than specific ranking goals for 2025

Joe is one of the ATP tour's most dynamic and entertaining players. Watch him tomorrow as he goes for his fourth US Open title and follow him throughout the rest of 2025.

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Nicole Melichar-Martinez joins us from the US Open to share insights on her recent doubles success and preparation for the final Grand Slam of the year. I spoke with her fresh off a title in Monterey with new partner Cristina Bucșa.

• Detailed breakdown of Nicole's practice routine, including specialized drills for volleys and overheads
• Comparison of New York to other Grand Slam cities, with particular focus on commute times and logistical challenges
• Food recommendations for NYC, with Nicole ranking it among the top tennis tournament destinations for dining
• How Nicole builds chemistry with new doubles partners and the communication strategies that led to her Monterey title
• Discussion of the US Open Mixed Doubles format and Nicole's creative ideas for future improvements
• Nicole's goals for maintaining her top-20 ranking and capturing her first WTA 1000 title
• Insights into how professional doubles players select partners for upcoming seasons

Niki ultimately won two rounds in New York against some tough opponents. If you're enjoying the podcast, please subscribe and leave us a review wherever you listen to your podcasts.

Learn more about Nicole & follow:

• WTA Profile
• Wikipedia
• Instagram
• Twitter/X

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**Other Free Doubles Content**

• Serve Strategy Cheatsheet
• Return Strategy Cheatsheet
• Serve Strategy 101 - Video Course

Rajeev Ram joins me for the first time in 2025. He's coming off a Masters 1000 title in Cincinnati with new partner, Nikola Mektić.

Rajeev shares insights on building team chemistry in doubles partnerships. He offers a nuanced perspective on the singles vs doubles player debate and provides practical advice on net play strategy, return tips, and career longevity. We also discussed:

• Fishes
• Building team chemistry quickly in a new partnership
• Explains his "two-by-four" analogy for effective net play as server's partner
• Could Sinner beat two doubles players by himself?
• Insights on return positioning and taking away specific serve patterns
• Plans for the rest of 2025
• Details recovery strategies and skill maintenance as a 41-year-old professional

We also get to some of your questions from Twitter/X and Instagram at the end. Rajeev always has thoughtful answers and great tips for club-doubles players so I know you'll enjoy this one.

Learn more about Rajeev & follow:

• ATP Profile
• Wikipedia
• Instagram
• Twitter/X

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**Join the #1 Doubles Strategy Newsletter for Club Tennis Players**

• New doubles strategy lessons weekly straight to your inbox

**Become a Tennis Tribe Member**
Tennis Tribe Members get access to premium video lessons, a monthly member-only webinar, doubles strategy Ebooks & Courses, exclusive discounts on tennis gear, and more.

• Learn More & Sign Up Here

**Other Free Doubles Content**

• Serve Strategy Cheatsheet
• Return Strategy Cheatsheet
• Serve Strategy 101 - Video Course