The Tennis Podcast That Champions, and Hosts, Black Pros
Christopher Eubanks (No. 62) has also been on the podcast, as well as coaches and family members of rising talents, including Michael Parks, the father of No. 121-ranked Alycia Parks, 23.
In that respect, Black Spin Global has provided a needed forum for listeners and those working inside the sport.
“Tennis is traditionally a predominantly white sport, and you don’t see a lot of people who look like us competing, and I think there are even fewer journalists covering the sport at the tournaments,” said Jarmere Jenkins, a coach and retired tennis professional who has worked with Serena Williams, Gauff and Ons Jabeur. He has appeared multiple times on the podcast.
“I wish they had been around when Serena and Venus burst onto the scene,” Jenkins said, noting the often hostile response to their rise. “I can’t help but think what it would have been like to have an advocate like Black Spin Global in their corner.”
Tumaini Carayol, who covers tennis for The Guardian, has also been a repeat guest on the show.
“It has been particularly impressive to see the connections they have made with the players and their teams in a short space of time,” Carayol said. He added, “It is clear that many players and other people within the sport really value having a platform that shines a light on the journeys of Black players.”
Tiafoe added: “Everyone wants to feel love and stuff, and they do a great job with that.”
Allen and Tezangi have gotten more opportunities to cover matches live from the sport’s most hallowed venues. Britain’s Lawn Tennis Association credentialed Black Spin Global to cover three lower-level tournaments on site and the pair is reporting from Wimbledon for the second consecutive year. They plan to cover the U.S. Open from New York when the tournament begins in August.
Jenkins sees a bright future ahead. “I think it’s brilliant that we have this platform for us, by us,” he said, “and that little Black boys and girls have a social media presence they can go to and keep up with their favorite players.”
