Served with Andy Roddick - Episode 5: SETTER: Ruud Joins Laver, US Open Dating Show, & More

Release Date: August 1, 2025

In the fifth episode of "Served with Andy Roddick," host Andy Roddick teams up with Jon Wertheim and Producer Mike to deliver a comprehensive roundup of the latest happenings in the world of tennis and racket sports. This episode delves into the exciting developments at the US Open, notable retirements, the emergence of new associations in pickleball, and cultural tributes to tennis legends. Below is a detailed summary capturing all key discussions, insights, and conclusions from the episode.

1. US Open Mixed Doubles Shakeup

Producer Mike kicks off the episode by highlighting significant changes in the US Open Mixed Doubles Championship. This year, fourteen teams are competing in the newly formatted event. Notably, eight duos secured direct entry based on their combined singles rankings, with Emma Navarro and Jannik Sinner leading the pack.

Emma Navarro's Candid Feedback to Jannik Sinner: A standout moment is when Emma Navarro provides constructive criticism to her partner, Jannik Sinner, emphasizing the importance of net play in doubles tennis.

• Timestamp [01:41]: Emma Navarro says:

  "I need you to just put in a good bit of work at the net on the Devils court in the next month or so. And hopefully, you can improve that part of your game because I'm out here working hard at doubles pretty much every day."

This exchange underscores the competitive nature and the high standards players maintain in doubles competition.

Wild Card Entries: The episode also covers the intriguing wild card entries:

• Venus Williams teams up with Riley Opelka.
• Taylor Townsend partners with Ben Shelton.
• Defending champions Sarah Arani and Andrea Vavasori return to vie for another title.

2. Introducing the US Open Dating Show: Game Set Matchmaker

In a novel twist to Fan Week festivities, the US Open is launching its own dating show titled "Game Set Matchmaker." This unique series is set against the backdrop of the tournament at Flushing Meadows and follows Alana Sedaka, a sports-savvy bachelorette known as the Champion, as she navigates dates with seven hopefuls, including influencers and ardent tennis fans.

Live Show Announcement: Andy, Jon, and Mike announce a special live show scheduled for August 21st outside Arthur Ashe Stadium. This "Draw Special" will feature Andy and Jon debating their tournament picks, with the audience having the opportunity to participate in real-time voting.

• Producer Mike mentions:

  "Andy and John debate their picks and this year maybe you'll be able to pick alongside."

Listeners are encouraged to sign up for the newsletter to receive more details about the live event.

3. Team Europe and Team World Preparations

The competitive spirit extends beyond individual matches as Casper Rud gears up to join Team Europe, which already boasts stellar players like Carlos Alcaraz, Holger Rune, Alexander Zverev, and captain Jannik Noah.

Casper Rud's Enthusiasm: Casper shares his excitement about the team aspect of tennis, highlighting the camaraderie with former rivals.

• Timestamp [02:24]: Casper Rud states:

  "The team aspect is unique. Getting to play alongside guys who are usually my rivals and to support each other is something we don't often experience. I'm ready to go."

Meanwhile, Team World is assembling to face Team Europe, captained by the legendary Andre Agassi, and featuring a lineup that includes Taylor Fritz, Tommy Paul, Ben Shelton, and fan favorite Joao Fonseca as the set number three.

4. Emotional Farewell: Jeannie Bouchard Retires

One of Canada's most beloved tennis stars, Jeannie Bouchard, announced her retirement following an emotional final match in her hometown of Montreal. In a heartfelt farewell, Jeannie reflects on her journey and the significance of ending her career where it all began.

Jeannie Bouchard's Farewell Message:

• Timestamp [04:23]: Jeannie Bouchard says:

  "It's so special to play my last match here in Montreal on this court in front of you guys. It feels like such a full circle moment to finish my career here."

Jeannie's retirement marks the end of an era, especially notable as she became the first Canadian to reach a Grand Slam final. Her departure garnered attention from fans and celebrities alike, including a touching tribute from Jim Parsons, star of The Big Bang Theory, on Instagram.

Looking ahead, Jeannie plans to enjoy her newfound free time with vacations and leisurely mornings, hinting at a well-deserved break from the competitive circuit.

5. Formation of the World Pickleball Players Association (WPPA)

Transitioning from tennis to the rapidly growing sport of pickleball, the episode highlights the establishment of the World Pickleball Players Association (WPPA). This new body aims to advocate for player health and safety, ensure transparency and fair compensation, address scheduling conflicts, and implement standardized protocols.

Colin Johns on WPPA's Mission:

• Timestamp [05:15]: Colin Johns, WPPA Board Member, states:

  "It's about some minimum standards that we can all agree upon. We want to make sure everyone is treated the same, whether you're the number one player or the 100th ranked player."

The formation of the WPPA was facilitated by Sports Solidarity, an organization known for unionizing minor league baseball players in 2022. Additionally, the professional tennis Players Association has expressed support, recognizing the WPPA's efforts as a significant and commendable milestone in athlete advocacy.

6. Cultural Tribute: New Play 'Billie Jean' Celebrates a Tennis Legend

The episode also explores the cultural impact of tennis icons through the lens of theater. A new play titled "Billie Jean" is bringing the legendary journey of Billie Jean King to life, showcasing her triumphs on the Wimbledon courts and her relentless fight for equity off the court. Running until August 10th at the Chicago Shakespeare Theatre, the play offers audiences a glimpse into the personal and professional challenges King faced.

Preview from 'Billie Jean':

• Timestamp [06:10]: Preview lines:

  "I'm Billie Jean. Winners find a way, one ball at a time."

The play not only honors King's achievements but also serves as an inspiring narrative about resilience and advocacy in sports.

7. Billie Jean King Returns to Academia

In a surprising yet inspiring turn, Billie Jean King has returned to school to complete her history degree at Cal State LA, the same institution she left to pursue her professional tennis career. According to the LA Times, King is likely the only student on campus with her own statue, symbolizing her enduring legacy.

8. Wrap-Up and Additional Highlights

As the episode draws to a close, Producer Mike engages listeners with a trivia question:

"Who played Billie Jean King in the 2017 scripted film about her historic 1973 tennis match against Bobby Ricks?"

Listeners are encouraged to subscribe to the "five setter" newsletter for the answer and other exclusive content.

Final Highlights:

• Promotion of an incredible interview with Iga Swiatek, available in the show description.
• Encouragement to subscribe to the podcast on YouTube and follow on Spotify for updates and notifications.

Notable Quotes:

1. Emma Navarro to Jannik Sinner [01:41]:

   "I need you to just put in a good bit of work at the net... because I'm out here working hard at doubles pretty much every day."

2. Casper Rud on Team Europe [02:24]:

   "Getting to play alongside guys who are usually my rivals and to support each other is something we don't often experience."

3. Jeannie Bouchard's Farewell [04:23]:

   "It feels like such a full circle moment to finish my career here."

4. Colin Johns on WPPA [05:15]:

   "We want to make sure everyone is treated the same, whether you're the number one player or the 100th ranked player."

5. 'Billie Jean' Play Preview [06:10]:

   "I'm Billie Jean. Winners find a way, one ball at a time."

Conclusion:

Episode 5 of "Served with Andy Roddick" offers a rich tapestry of stories from the world of tennis and beyond. From the strategic shifts in the US Open Mixed Doubles to the heartfelt retirement of Jeannie Bouchard, the episode balances competitive insights with personal narratives. The introduction of the World Pickleball Players Association signifies the evolving landscape of racket sports, while cultural endeavors like the "Billie Jean" play celebrate the enduring legacy of tennis legends. For fans and newcomers alike, this episode provides a comprehensive and engaging overview of the current and future state of racket sports.

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This summary is based on the transcript provided and aims to encapsulate the essence of the podcast episode for those who have not had the chance to listen.