April 23, 2021

Here’s your roundup of the five most interesting things I’m enjoying or thinking about this week.

1.) Kicks on Court via Hall of Fame

Tennis shoes have come a long way, and in one of their latest exhibits, the Hall of Fame and Fila set out to bring the story of footwear in tennis to life.

Browse the Exhibit

2.) One-on-One with Chris Evert

18-time Grand Slam champion, Chris Evert, began hosting a new series with 10 former year-end number one WTA players. Each 30-minute episode dives deep to explore where they found their passion, who inspired them, how they overcame challenges, and what it meant to reach the top.

3.) 3 Barcelona Shots to Watch

The Barcelona Open kicked off this week with plenty of excellent tennis on tap. Keeping tabs on things, I’ve pulled together a few of my favorite points from the tournament thus far for you to check out.

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Pick your spot and take your shot, @janniksin ?#BCNOpenBS pic.twitter.com/M2o4NW4OGY

— Tennis TV (@TennisTV) April 20, 2021

Demon is EVERYWHERE

? @alexdeminaur #BCNOpenBS pic.twitter.com/JSbSYQs53j

— Tennis TV (@TennisTV) April 22, 2021

That’s just sick ?

Ridiculous on the stretch from @RafaelNadal #BCNOpenBS pic.twitter.com/AcW5dB7cvD

— Tennis TV (@TennisTV) April 22, 2021

4.) Navarro Overcomes Cancer

Last September, former world #6, Carla Suárez Navarro, was diagnosed with cancer and since then has shared the story of her treatment with fans on social media. Yesterday, she posted an update that she finished her chemo and radiotherapy to overcome Hodgkin Lymphoma. Having originally planned to retire at the end of 2020, Carla will play at this year’s Roland Garros with a direct entry into the main draw to wrap her career on her own terms.

Another step forward. Today I finished my treatment and overcame Hodgkin lymphoma.

Thanks to all for your warm messages. Every word of support gave me strength during the past few months. ❤️

All my gratitude to healthcare professionals who take care of us every day. I’M CURED! pic.twitter.com/kF3HwHPh0y

— Carla Suárez Navarro (@CarlaSuarezNava) April 22, 2021

5.) Fognini Defaulted in Barcelona

World #27, Fabio Fognini, has developed a reputation for outbursts and mouthing off on the court, and this week at the Barcelona Open, he took things too far. It remains unclear exactly what he said to a linesman after being called for a foot fault but clearly enough for the decision. He’s the ninth ATP player to be disqualified from an ATP match since 2001. Djokovic’s shock exit from the US Open last year after hitting a line judge with a ball was the previous player disqualified.

Breaking news: Fabio Fognini has been defaulted for abuse of official in his second round match.

Bernabe Zapata Miralles will advance.#bcnopenbs pic.twitter.com/ExOBUyRD7c

— Tennis Channel (@TennisChannel) April 21, 2021

If you have a moment, I’d love to hear your feedback. Which topic is your favorite? What would you like to see more or less of each week?

Share your thoughts in the comments below and have a great weekend.