Testing traditions and tennis' ever-changing landscape with gigi fernandez

In today's episode of The TennisWorthy Podcast, host Patrick McEnroe catches up with Hall of Famer Gigi Fernandez, discussing her career in the framework of tradition. Patrick and Gigi go behind the scenes at Wimbledon and the other Majors, sharing stories and memories of their favorite traditions in tennis, such as wearing white at Wimbledon, the evolution of night tennis, and the debate over best-of-five sets in men's tennis.

Patrick and Gigi open the episode with takeaways from their experience at the launch event of Serving Tennis History, a digital collaboration between the International Tennis Hall of Fame and Google Arts & Culture featuring the full run of American Lawn Tennis magazine. Gigi also shares her personal connection to tennis and her efforts to give back through her foundation, Tennis for Hope, which supports those in the tennis community affected by natural disasters.

Balancing Tradition and Progress: The Evolution of the Grand Slams

In April, we explore the delicate balance between tradition and progress in the world of tennis, focusing on the four Grand Slam tournaments: Australian Open, Roland Garros, Wimbledon, and US Open. Each tournament, while steeped in history, has had to adapt to the changing times.  

Chris Bowers delves into the decisions behind venue changes, like the Australian and US Opens' move to new, purpose-built facilities, and the choice of Wimbledon and Roland Garros to stay rooted in their historic locations.  

He also explores the efforts to modernize while preserving the unique identities of these events, from addressing logistical challenges at Wimbledon to Philippe Chatrier’s vision for Roland Garros.