The Functional Tennis Podcast

I tried something new.
For a long time, I’ve talked about starting a YouTube channel where I get back on court and test myself against players better than me. The reality is, I never really had the time to do it properly.
Now I’ve finally started.
In this first video, I take on one of Ireland’s best players, Sinead Lohan, to see how I stack up and to explore the level difference.
This is the first of many, and I’m still figuring out the format, so I’d really appreciate your feedback.
You can watch the full video here

Over the past 12 months, I’ve been working with biomechanics researcher Dr Nick Busuttil to better understand one simple question…
Does the Functional Tennis Saber actually improve your game?
In this episode, we dive into the findings from that research and what really happens when players train with a constraint racket.
We discuss how the Saber influences stroke mechanics, why players may initially feel less accurate, and how that “useful struggle” can actually help build better timing, contact awareness and more consistent strokes over time.
Nick also explains why tools like the Saber can promote adaptability in your game, act as a circuit breaker in training, and how coaches and players can use it effectively in practice and warm ups.
If you’ve ever wondered whether training aids actually work or if they’re just gimmicks, this episode will give you a clear, science backed perspective.
You can download the full research report here.
And if you have any questions after listening, feel free to reach out to me on Instagram here or you can email me here.
I hope you enjoy the episode.
Fabio

Marc Polmans is now ranked inside the top 60 in doubles after making the Australian Open doubles final but he still sees himself as a singles player.
In this episode, we talk about the reality of balancing singles ambition with doubles opportunity, and how one Grand Slam run can shift your season financially, mentally, and strategically.
Marc shares:
From not being in the draw to Aussie Open finalist
The difference between Futures and Challenger level
Why ranking points at Slams change everything
His recent racket switch from the Pure Drive to the Pure Aero and how it compares to Wilson’s “Python” prototype
Whether he’d choose college tennis if starting again today
And why the Functional Tennis Saber is useful for doubles players

An honest look at the grind of pro tennis and the career decisions players constantly face.
Enjoy
Fabio

Justin Van Malderen from Luxilon is back on the Functional Tennis Podcast.
At the 2025 US Open, 55% of the Top 100 were using Luxilon strings. In this episode, we discuss why.
We talk about falling string tensions on tour, how modern powerful rackets are changing string demands, and why today’s aggressive baseline game requires more durability and control than ever.
We also dive into why I chose Luxilon Element for the FT99 racket, how it compares to 4G and Alu Power, and who it’s best suited for.
Justin shares insight into Sabalenka’s unique setup, the reality of sustainable strings, and how Luxilon competes as a family business in a market dominated by major global brands.
Plus, Justin is offering a €500 Functional Tennis voucher to one listener who fills out Luxilon’s string questionnaire. Tap here to fill it out and the last submission date is on March 31st.
If you care about your setup and want to understand what makes a difference at the highest level, this one’s for you.
Enjoy
Fabio

In this episode of the Functional Tennis Podcast, I’m joined by Yuhi Tanigaki, Product Manager for Tennis Footwear at ASICS, to go behind the scenes of the new Solution Speed FF4.
Yuhi plays a central role in shaping ASICS tennis shoes, working closely with designers, researchers, professional athletes, and recreational players to turn feedback into real on court performance.
We cover what actually goes into building a modern tennis shoe and how small changes can make a big difference.
In this episode, we discuss:
How long it really takes to develop a tennis shoe from first idea to retail
What stayed consistent from the original Solution Speed and what has evolved
The key updates in the Solution Speed FF4 and how they affect feel and movement
How ASICS balances speed, comfort, and durability without adding weight
The role of athlete feedback, including insights from Belinda Bencic
Differences between what professional players and recreational players value
Why ASICS sees the FF4 as an evolution rather than a complete redesign
Which type of player the Solution Speed FF4 is built for

This episode is a deep dive into tennis footwear design and a rare look at how performance products are actually created behind the scenes.