Tennis Legend & Coach #204: The Symbolism of Hope: Revival with Gigi Fernández

Today on The Coaching Podcast, Coach EM sits down with the legendary Gigi Fernández for one of her most vulnerable and moving conversations yet. Gigi opens up about the competitive mindset it took to become a 17-time Grand Slam champion — and the inner work required to quieten the mind, detach from outcomes, and replace fear with focus. She shares how learning to lose became one of the greatest gifts of her career, supported by an evidence list reminding her that everything truly will be okay. Gigi also talks candidly about parenting twins, the moment Hurricane Helene took everything from her, and how that devastation sparked the revival of purpose behind her foundation, Tennis for Hope. And of course, she leaves us with a doubles tip that every player should tattoo on their brain: the person closest to the ball takes the shot. ABout Gigi Fernández: Gigi Fernández is widely regarded as one of the greatest doubles players in tennis history. A member of the International Tennis Hall of Fame, she amassed 17 Grand Slam doubles titles and two Olympic Gold Medals with partner Mary Joe Fernández. In 2000, she was honoured as Puerto Rican Athlete of the Century, recognising her extraordinary impact on the sport. Today, Gigi pours her passion into coaching, education, and philanthropy. She is the founder of The Gigi Method and Gigi Fernández Tennis, helping adult players elevate their doubles skills through world-class camps, clinics, and events around the world. After losing her home during Hurricane Helene, Gigi founded Tennis for Hope, a nonprofit uniting the tennis community to support individuals and clubs affected by natural disasters. Off the court, she is a proud mum to twins, Karson and Madison. Connect with Gigi: https://gigifernandeztennis.com/