Share

cover art for Meet the Professionals - Abigail Johnson

Ground Pass: A Tennis Podcast

Meet the Professionals - Abigail Johnson

Season 2, Ep. 15
•

Welcome to another episode of Meet the Professionals, our monthly series spotlighting the people who make the tennis world go ’round. This time, Anastasia & Nick sit down with rising tennis commentator Abigail Johnson for an inspiring and insightful conversation.


From her early tennis obsessions to carving out a space for herself in the world of sports commentary, Abigail shares how passion, preparation, and persistence shaped her journey. They dive into everything from the art of on-air storytelling to the realities of traveling on the tennis tour, building relationships with players, and making space for young voices in the media.


If you’re curious about what it really takes to get behind the mic in tennis—or just love hearing from the voices shaping the sport—this one’s for you.

 

Relevant Links:



Chapters


00:00 Introduction

01:27 Abigail Johnson: A Journey into Tennis Commentary

04:31 Childhood Influences and Early Aspirations

07:18 The Path to Professional Tennis Commentary

09:57 Transitioning from Writing to Commentary

18:37 How Abigail's hobbies helped her in Tennis Commentary

24:00 Being an educator as a tennis commentator

31:41 Overcoming "Youth" and being an outsider 

36:49 Building Relationships with Players

48:08 Traveling for Work: A Commentator's Life

51:45 Balancing Passion and Professionalism

55:01 What the future looks like for Abigail

59:19 Engaging New Tennis Fans

01:01:28 Advice for getting into Tennis Commentary

01:06:29 The Importance of Grassroots Tennis


Connect with Us:

  • Follow Ground Pass on Instagram and Bluesky/Twitter for real-time updates.
  • Subscribe on Substack for bonus episodes, behind-the-scenes coverage and exclusive content.
  • Got thoughts on this week’s tennis news? Let us know in the comments or send us a message!


Subscribe to Our Substack at - https://groundpass.substack.com

Visit Our Website at - www.groundpasspodcast.com

Email us at - groundpasspodcast@gmail.com


Follow us on Social:

Threads: https://www.threads.net/@ground_pass

Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/groundpass.bsky.social

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ground_pass

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@GroundPass

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@groundpasspodcast


Podcast Theme by Breakmaster Cylinder


More episodes

View all episodes

  • 28. Ground Pass x Black Spin Global: The Real Grass Court Guide

    40:52||Season 2, Ep. 28
    As Roland Garros wraps up, Anastasia calls in Lucy and Eugene from Black Spin Global for a bonus episode full of tips, tea, and truths about the grass court season. From what to expect at Queen’s Club (hint: posh vibes and pricey drinks) to why Eastbourne might actually be a hidden gem, this episode is a must-listen if you’re thinking of attending any UK tournaments this summer. Plus, they break down the Roland Garros quarterfinals—including the drama around Musetti and the fairytale run of Lois Boisson.💬 Don’t forget to give us 5 stars and drop us a comment ⭐️Support us on Patreon: https://patreon.com/GroundPassPodcastSubscribe to Our Substack at - https://groundpass.substack.comVisit Our Website at - www.groundpasspodcast.comEmail us at - groundpasspodcast@gmail.comFollow us for daily updates on Social:Threads: https://www.threads.net/@ground_passBlue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/groundpass.bsky.socialInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ground_passYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@GroundPassTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@groundpasspodcastX: https://x.com/groundpasspodPodcast Theme by Breakmaster Cylinder

  • 27. Roland Garros Round 4 wrap-up - Boisson’s Breakthrough, Iga’s Turning Point & Bublik’s First Quarterfinal

    41:25||Season 2, Ep. 27
    Round 4 at Roland Garros 2025 gave us everything: a fairytale wild card run, a clay-court classic, and a few surprise quarterfinalists.Anastasia and Nick dive into Lois Boisson’s stunning upset of Jessica Pegula and why she’s now the name on everyone’s lips in Paris. We break down Mirra Andreeva’s win over her friend Daria Kasatkina, Iga Świątek’s revealing press conference after surviving Elena Rybakina, and what Sasha Bublik’s tears tell us about his growth as a player.Also in this episode:– Why Tiafoe’s in US Open mode– Musetti vs. Shelton and what’s next– A preview of the quarterfinals we’re most excited about– Grass season is officially here!We’ll be back after the quarters with more — and tips for anyone headed to Queen’s Club.Links:Wimbeldon Bublik v Rublev point - https://youtu.be/U1aUToJEn8c?si=QXYqrlqjWXo4S5gIGround Pass Live Episode - https://youtu.be/_SdyUaXwF-E?si=uUOjohPiU-XAiwX3💬 Don’t forget to give us 5 stars and drop us a comment ⭐️Support us on Patreon: https://patreon.com/GroundPassPodcastSubscribe to Our Substack at - https://groundpass.substack.comVisit Our Website at - www.groundpasspodcast.comEmail us at - groundpasspodcast@gmail.comFollow us for daily updates on Social:Threads: https://www.threads.net/@ground_passBlue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/groundpass.bsky.socialInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ground_passYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@GroundPassTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@groundpasspodcastX: https://x.com/groundpasspodPodcast Theme by Breakmaster Cylinder

  • Live from Brooklyn: Roland Garros Week 1 Recap with Rennae Stubbs & Caitlin Thompson

    01:00:36||Season 2
    Ground Pass went live in Brooklyn for a special crossover event with The Rennae Stubbs Tennis Podcast and Caitlin Thompson of Racquet magazine to break down Week 1 of Roland Garros 2025.From early upsets to the rise of American players, and whether there’s just too much tennis, we covered it all—with a crowd, coffee, and some hot takes.🎾 Topics include:– The biggest surprises so far at RG– TNT’s new coverage and what it means for casual fans– A live audience Q&A– And a few strong opinions from three people who really love this sportRecorded live at McCarren Park Clubhouse in Brooklyn, NY.💬 Don’t forget to give us 5 stars and drop us a comment ⭐️Support us on Patreon: https://patreon.com/GroundPassPodcastSubscribe to Our Substack at - https://groundpass.substack.comVisit Our Website at - www.groundpasspodcast.comEmail us at - groundpasspodcast@gmail.comFollow us for daily updates on Social:Threads: https://www.threads.net/@ground_passBlue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/groundpass.bsky.socialInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ground_passYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@GroundPassTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@groundpasspodcastX: https://x.com/groundpasspod

  • 26. Roland Garros Round 3 wrap up: Underdogs, Breakouts & Sleeveless Showdowns

    42:00||Season 2, Ep. 26
    Round 3 brought us drama, injuries, breakthroughs—and short shorts. Anastasia and Nick dive into the biggest stories from Roland Garros, including Arthur Fils’ heartbreaking withdrawal, Jack Draper’s top-5 energy, and Hailey Baptiste and Ethan Quinn continuing their rise. Plus: the Iga-Rybakina clash looms, Musetti vs Rune promises vibes and tension, and we gear up for grass season (yes, already). Also: a preview of Ground Pass’s first live podcast event with The Rennae Stubbs Tennis Podcast.🎾 Matches discussed:– Svitolina vs Pera– Alcaraz vs Dzumhur– Draper vs Fonseca– Sabalenka vs Anisimova preview– Swiatek vs Rybakina preview– Musetti vs Rune– Keys vs Baptiste– Andreeva vs Kasatkina👀 Plus: Who to watch in doubles, why American tennis is on the rise, and what’s next on the Ground Pass calendar.💬 Don’t forget to give us 5 stars and drop us a comment ⭐️Support us on Patreon: https://patreon.com/GroundPassPodcastSubscribe to Our Substack at - https://groundpass.substack.comVisit Our Website at - www.groundpasspodcast.comEmail us at - groundpasspodcast@gmail.comFollow us for daily updates on Social:Threads: https://www.threads.net/@ground_passBlue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/groundpass.bsky.socialInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ground_passYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@GroundPassTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@groundpasspodcastX: https://x.com/groundpasspodPodcast Theme by Breakmaster Cylinder

  • 25. Round 2 Recap & Roland Garros Fashion Report (feat. Kaya Courtside)

    55:23||Season 2, Ep. 25
    Our favorite tradition is back — the Ground Pass Grand Slam Fashion Roundup — and Roland Garros is serving looks. Anastasia is joined by special guest Kaya (@kayacourtside), the tennis style expert taking over TikTok and Instagram, to break down all the kits from Round 2.We get into:🎾 Which brands nailed it (Wilson, we see you)👟 Custom kicks and collabs we want more of🧢 Why Nike’s men’s kits had us yelling “Hamburglar”🔥 The rise of tennis as a lifestyle and fashion sport🚨 Plus, the best on-court storylines heading into Round 3If you care about tennis and a well-placed pleat, this episode is for you.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Fashion in Tennis02:38 The Intersection of Tennis and Fashion03:42 Nike's Women's Collection Review08:20 Nike's Men's Collection Review10:43 Adidas: A Safe Choice12:22 New Balance's Standout Performance15:33 Wilson's Winning Designs18:10 Yonex18:56 Asics21:48 Lululemon's Entry into Tennis Fashion24:53 On's Gradient Kits: A Love or Hate?28:03 Analyzing Lacoste's Cohesive Collection30:53 Emerging Brands and Unique Styles37:26 Luxury Fashion and Tennis40:35 The problem with Fashion in Tennis42:30 Winners and Losers in Tennis Fashion48:26 Quick Round 2 Round Up51:10 Current Trends and Upcoming Matches54:32 Outro—🎥 Prefer to watch? The full video is on YouTube💬 Let us know your winners and losers#RolandGarros💬 Don’t forget to give us 5 stars and drop us a comment ⭐️Support us on Patreon: https://patreon.com/GroundPassPodcastSubscribe to Our Substack at - https://groundpass.substack.comVisit Our Website at - www.groundpasspodcast.comEmail us at - groundpasspodcast@gmail.comFollow us for daily updates on Social:Threads: https://www.threads.net/@ground_passBlue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/groundpass.bsky.socialInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ground_passYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@GroundPassTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@groundpasspodcastX: https://x.com/groundpasspodPodcast Theme by Breakmaster Cylinder

  • 24. Roland Garros Round 1: Upsets, Monfils Magic & Match Picks for Round 2

    31:14||Season 2, Ep. 24
    Round 1 of Roland Garros 2025 delivered—and we’re breaking it all down.From Gael Monfils lighting up Chatrier to a wave of early upsets (Fritz! Cerundolo! Navarro!), Anastasia and Nick cover the most surprising results, wildest crowd moments, and best performances of the opening round.They also dive into:• Medvedev’s mid-match string change• Hailey Baptiste’s biggest win to date• Ethan Quinn’s unexpected advancement• The rise of Victoria Mboko and Alex Eala’s doubles run• Iga Swiatek’s statement startPlus, they reveal their top must-watch match picks for Round 2—and yes, one involves a certain Monfils successor.Subscribe and follow Ground Pass for more TL;DW (Too Long Didn’t Watch) recaps all tournament long.💬 Don’t forget to give us 5 stars and drop us a comment ⭐️Support us on Patreon: https://patreon.com/GroundPassPodcastSubscribe to Our Substack at - https://groundpass.substack.comVisit Our Website at - www.groundpasspodcast.comEmail us at - groundpasspodcast@gmail.comFollow us for daily updates on Social:Threads: https://www.threads.net/@ground_passBlue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/groundpass.bsky.socialInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ground_passYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@GroundPassTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@groundpasspodcastX: https://x.com/groundpasspodPodcast Theme by Breakmaster Cylinder

  • 23. Day 1 at Roland Garros: Live Reactions, Rafa’s Tribute & Early Shockers

    54:56||Season 2, Ep. 23
    Our first-ever live episode—recorded in real time as Roland Garros Day 1 unfolded—and wow, there was a lot to talk about.Anastasia and Nick break down:Marta Kostyuk’s shocking lossVictoria Mboko’s riseA wild five-setter from Ben SheltonThe emotional (and actually good?!) Rafa Nadal tributePeyton Stearns, Mpetshi Perricard, Paolini, and other standout performancesA full breakdown of how to watch the French Open this year (it’s confusing but we’ve got you)Plus, we each pick one must-watch match for Day 2—yes, Naomi Osaka vs. Paula Badosa made the cut.🎾 Follow along with our daily RG coverage on Instagram, Threads, BlueSky, and TikTok💬 Don’t forget to give us 5 stars and drop us a comment ⭐️Support us on Patreon: https://patreon.com/GroundPassPodcastSubscribe to Our Substack at - https://groundpass.substack.comVisit Our Website at - www.groundpasspodcast.comEmail us at - groundpasspodcast@gmail.comFollow us for daily updates on Social:Threads: https://www.threads.net/@ground_passBlue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/groundpass.bsky.socialInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ground_passYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@GroundPassTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@groundpasspodcastX: https://x.com/groundpasspodPodcast Theme by Breakmaster Cylinder

  • 22. How the Roland Garros Draw Works + Our Must-Watch First-Round Matches

    53:56||Season 2, Ep. 22
    It’s Grand Slam time! 🎾Anastasia is joined by guest co-host Mitch Michals (Inside-In Podcast) for a full Roland Garros 2025 draw breakdown. They kick things off by explaining what a tennis draw is, how seeding works, and why wildcards cause drama every year—before diving into the first-round matchups that caught their eye. Osaka vs. Badosa, Sinner vs. Rinderknech, Baptiste vs. Haddad Maia, and more. Plus, they predict some spicy possible 4th round showdowns (Sinner vs. Fils, Musetti vs. Rune), share why the French crowd is a vibe, and ask: will we finally get that Sincaraz final?👉 Listen to the end to hear our Roland Garros content schedule and let us know your favorite first-round matchup.Chapters00:00 Welcome to Grand Slam Season02:13 Understanding the Draw11:22 The French Open Draw Process15:36 First Round Matches to Watch32:43 Breaking down some projected Matches52:30 OutroLinks Mention:Taylor Fritz telling Rinderknech to enjoy his flight home - https://www.groundpasspodcast.com/gp-easter-eggMatch Stories - Lost Boys - https://youtu.be/9maE1Nb8e3o?si=4B0SGnvAIsHtFWNi💬 Don’t forget to give us 5 stars and drop us a comment ⭐️Support us on Patreon: https://patreon.com/GroundPassPodcastSubscribe to Our Substack at - https://groundpass.substack.comVisit Our Website at - www.groundpasspodcast.comEmail us at - groundpasspodcast@gmail.comFollow us for daily updates on Social:Threads: https://www.threads.net/@ground_passBlue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/groundpass.bsky.socialInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ground_passYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@GroundPassTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@groundpasspodcastX: https://x.com/groundpasspodPodcast Theme by Breakmaster Cylinder

  • 21. Rome Recap: Paolini’s Breakthrough, Sinner’s Return, and Coco’s Struggles

    37:44||Season 2, Ep. 21
    The 2025 Rome Open had it all—career-defining wins, surprise storylines, and a whole lot of clay. In this Ground Pass mini pod, we break down Jasmine Paolini’s stunning singles and doubles sweep, Jannik Sinner’s return after suspension, and Coco Gauff’s ongoing stat struggles. Plus: why the men’s vs. women’s tennis debate needs to stop, who’s trending ahead of Roland Garros, and the vibes from one of the best stops on tour.Chapters00:00 - Intro3:30 - WTA Storylines: Jasmine Paolini, Coco Gauff, Qinwen and more12:50 - Italian Tennis Rennaissance17:47 - Mini Rant: Let’s Retire the Gender Debate21:01 - ATP Storylines: Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz30:10 - Other Winners: Draper, Stearns, Musetti, Osaka, Raducanu34:59 - Coming up this week on tour36:10 - Outro💬 Don’t forget to give us 5 stars and drop us a comment ⭐️Support us on Patreon: https://patreon.com/GroundPassPodcastSubscribe to Our Substack at - https://groundpass.substack.comVisit Our Website at - www.groundpasspodcast.comEmail us at - groundpasspodcast@gmail.comFollow us for daily updates on Social:Threads: https://www.threads.net/@ground_passBlue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/groundpass.bsky.socialInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ground_passYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@GroundPassTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@groundpasspodcastX: https://x.com/groundpasspodPodcast Theme by Breakmaster Cylinder