Episode 394: Mixed Feelings

Ben and Tumaini reconvene for the first time back in their cold home hemisphere to discuss tennis happenings in February, which involve several complex stories. First, we discussed the late-breaking news of Stefano Vukov receiving a one-year ban from the WTA, and the details that were reported by The Athletic about the WTA's reasons. Is this new proactive approach correct? Second we discuss the retirement announcement of Simona Halep, whose legacy became much more complicated in the last few years. How should her career be remembered? We then cover the many changes happening to the August schedule, including the elongated Canada and Cincinnati events, the US Open's Sunday start, and then mostly the U.S. Open's radical revamp of the mixed doubles event.  After some results chats and thank yous, we end with a discussion of Serena at the Super Bowl and our memories of her time with Drake. Thank you for listening! Our Patreon is back up and running to ensure NCR keeps going and stays ad-free, and we hope you can join in supporting NCR! And we especially thank our GOAT backers: Pam Shriver and J. O'D. And please check out Ben's new writing home, Bounces! And Tumaini's work at The Guardian!