10 Minutes of Tennis: The New Wave of Players (now that the BIG 3 are not dominating)

Author: Shaun Boyce and Bobby Schindler
Published: Tue 25 Feb 2025
Episode Link: https://letsgotennis.com/atlanta-tennis-podcast/10-minutes-of-tennis-the-new-wave-of-players-now-that-the-big-3-are-not-dominating

Episode #19 Season 25: Shaun Boyce & Justin Yeo

Guest: Justin Yeo

Host: Shaun Boyce

Runtime: ~13 minutes

Episode Theme: A fresh era in tennis is here — new contenders, new systems, and a whole new belief that you don’t need to be Federer to make it.

🎾 What This Episode Is Really About

The “Big Three” era is winding down. Federer’s retired, Nadal’s winding up his career, and while Djokovic is still in the mix — his dominance is no longer guaranteed. That shift has opened the floodgates for a new wave of players, and this episode unpacks what that means for the pros, the weekend warriors, and the future of the game.

In just 12 action-packed minutes, Shaun and Justin break down-

What makes this new wave different (and why it’s bigger than just “new names”)
Why players with unconventional styles are finally breaking through
How the U.S. college system is quietly producing high-impact pros
Why tennis careers are lasting longer — and what that means for development pathways
How the rise of American men is reshaping the ATP landscape

Today’s podcast isn’t a surface-level chat. It’s a quick-hit, insight-packed episode that connects elite tennis with the everyday player — and reveals why belief, opportunity, and adaptability matter more than ever.

Key Insights You’ll Get from the Podcast

🎾 Less Domination = More Opportunity

For nearly two decades, men’s tennis was locked behind an impenetrable wall — Federer, Nadal, and Djokovic. If you weren’t one of them, your chances of breaking into the top tier were slim. That’s no longer the case. With Federer retired, Nadal in his final seasons, and Djokovic not quite as dominant, the field is wide open. We're seeing more players from outside the traditional elite ranks crack into the top 10 and top 20 — not just as one-hit wonders, but as serious contenders.

U.S. Players Making a Comeback

It’s been a long time since American men were a serious force in tennis. But that’s changing fast. Right now, a growing number of U.S. men are climbing the rankings and proving they belong in the world’s top 100. The women’s side already has strong representation, but the men are catching up — thanks in part to a more structured development path and belief that they can actually compete without getting steamrolled in the first round.

🏫 College as a Viable Pathway

The average top 100 male player is now in his late 20s — and that’s a big deal. It means the door is wide open for college players who develop a little later. Unlike the old model that glorified teenage prodigies, today’s pro landscape rewards those who grind, evolve, and find their game over time. And no system supports that better than American college tennis, which gives players time to mature, build fitness, develop tactics, and rack up experience before hitting the pro circuit.

👟 Imperfect Technique, Real Results

Not every top player has picture-perfect strokes — and that’s okay. Players like Daniil Medvedev have unique styles that break all the textbook rules… and they win. That sends a powerful message: clean technique isn’t the only path to success. If your game works, it works. Whether it’s a quirky backhand, unconventional footwork, or an unorthodox serve, what matters is finding what works for you — and believing in it.

💼 You Don’t Need to Be a Superstar to Succeed

There’s a misconception that if you’re not winning Grand Slams, you’re failing. But players ranked in the 30s, 50s, or even 90s are making real money, building real careers, and staying in the game into their 30s. Some are even paying off houses in cash. This episode highlights that tennis doesn’t have to be all-or-nothing. There’s a strong middle class in pro tennis now — and the grind is worth it.

🧠 From Pro Tour to Public Courts: What It Means for You

This conversation isn’t just for elite players — it applies to coaches, club players, and weekend warriors, too. What can you take away from this new era? You don’t have to fix every flaw in your game. You just need to use your tools better. When Djokovic and Alcaraz are still tweaking their serves mid-career, it shows that growth never stops. The takeaway? Get a coach, work with what you’ve got, and build confidence in your own style.

🎤 Standout Quotes

“You don’t have to be the next Federer. You just have to use the tools you’ve got.”
“We’re finally seeing a huge wave of American men breaking into the top 100.”
“The new wave isn’t just about new names—it’s about new chances, new paths, and new beliefs.”

👀 Who Should Listen?

You’ll get value from this episode if you’re-

A coach helping players build belief and find their style
A player grinding through USTA/ITF levels wondering, “Do I have a shot?”
A recreational tennis nut who loves the strategy behind the rankings
Anyone who’s ever felt stuck behind a wall of “perfect” tennis

Seems intriguing! Hit the play button now and get to listen to what insights Justin shares that can significantly change the way you see racket sports!

For more 10 Minutes of Tennis episodes: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLKLIP3Zrp28TLg1nCs4E-2PzkRcjyePEM

YouTube Replay

Shaun Boyce USPTA: [email protected]

https://tennisforchildren.com/

Justin Yeo: https://www.instagram.com/yeocoach/

Bobby Schindler USPTA: [email protected]

https://windermerecommunity.net/

Geovanna Boyce: [email protected]

https://regeovinate.com/

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