Episode 277

LESSONS FROM STEVE DENTON

In this episode

In this episode of the Great Base Tennis Podcast, Steve Smith and co-host Dave Anderson sit down with Texas A&M head coach and former world No. 11, Steve Denton. Denton opens with the incredible story of the Shanghai Masters, how former Aggies Arthur Rinderknech and Valentin Vacherot, first cousins, battled their way from qualifying and alternates into a dream final on one of tennis’ biggest stages. He explains their roots at Texas A&M, why developing an all-court, forward-moving game takes longer, and how subtle changes in style and mindset can unlock a pro career.

Episode 277’s conversation ranges through Denton’s own tour days, doubles with Kevin Curren, the evolution of college tennis, the importance of doubles as a pathway to making a lineup, and why “lifers” like Austin Krajicek and Jackson Withrow keep finding success. Along the way, you’ll hear rich Texas and Trinity tennis history, locker-room stories involving McEnroe and Connors, and Denton’s perspective on what parents and players should really value in the college and pro journey.

show notes

In this episode of the GreatBase Tennis Podcast, co-hosts Steve Smith and Dave Anderson are joined by guest Steve Denton—former ATP player, U.S. Open champion, and former world No. 2 in doubles—for an engaging conversation filled with tennis history, personal stories, and developmental insights. Denton’s decades of experience provide a unique window into the sport’s evolution and the new generation of talent emerging today.

The discussion begins with reflections on the Shanghai Open, spotlighting the improbable run of a former player who battled through qualifying and scored unexpected victories over top-ranked opponents—including a stunning upset over Novak Djokovic. The story builds toward a remarkable final in which he faced his own cousin, a moment that underscores the emotional complexity, competitive fire, and family ties that shape tennis careers.

The conversation shifts to the development of rising players at Texas A&M, where Denton shares observations from years of coaching at the collegiate level. The hosts examine the challenges young athletes face as they transition from junior tennis to the demands of structured team environments. They highlight the importance of evolving into all-court players, embracing tactical maturity, and mastering doubles—an essential skill for earning opportunities and contributing meaningfully at the college level.

Attention then turns to the current climate in junior tennis, where a growing win-at-all-costs mentality has begun to overshadow traditional values of sportsmanship and integrity. Steve and Dave stress the importance of instilling ethical habits in young players while adapting teaching methods to changing conditions, such as the rise of electronic line-calling and its role in improving fairness during competition.

The episode also pays tribute to the enduring influence of Texas tennis mentors and coaches whose leadership continues to shape athletes and reinforce a culture of community support. Figures such as Kevin O’Shea are recognized for their lasting contributions to player development and character-building within the sport.

As the episode concludes, the hosts reflect on the lifelong friendships and meaningful relationships forged through tennis. They emphasize the vital role that dedicated coaches, teammates, and community leaders play in uplifting athletes at every stage of their journey. Looking ahead to the future of the Texas A&M program, the discussion reaffirms a continued commitment to fostering talent, cultivating resilience, and nurturing a genuine love for the game that extends far beyond competition.