Steve Johnson: Babolat vs Yonex, Playing Federer, Shelton vs Stevie in College & Nothing Major

Steve Johnson discusses his journey from college tennis at USC to the professional circuit and eventually retirement. He reflects on team dynamics, confidence from winning streaks, and the challenges of high-pressure matches against top players like Roger Federer. Johnson highlights the importance of family balance, camaraderie, and player-driven content in tennis. He also shares insights on podcast production and how his Nothing Major podcast helps him stay connected with friends and the tennis community.

🎾 Welcome to The Changeover Podcast 🎾
Ever wondered what life is really like as a professional tennis player? On The Changeover, hosts Jody Maginley and Justin Roberts take you behind the scenes of the tour—sharing insights on training, weekly progress, the grind of climbing the rankings, and conversations with players living it every day.

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🎶 Intro audio by DJ Quest

00:00 Intro
01:37 Life Since Retirement
04:07 Any Guilt in Stepping Away From the Game?
08:00 Lexington Challenger Story
08:51 Swallowing Pride to Play Challengers in 2023
10:14 Mexico Challenger Story (Grumpy Stevie)
14:03 How Having Children Affects Life on Tour
17:16 Nothing Major
22:43 Ranking the Nothing Major Hosts by Category
26:47 What would Steve Johnson be Ranked in this Era? (CH 21)
32:42 What Matches Stevie “Knew” He Would Lose (Nadal & Federer)
33:36 Backhand Weakness & Switching to 1-Hander
36:56 College Tennis USC 4-Peat Team
43:35 72-Match Win Streak
45:35 College Ben Shelton vs College Steve Johnson
46:12 Any Superstitions Formed During Streak?
46:58 Playing Tactical vs Patterns
49:34 The Final College Match
50:49 Did USC Team Party Hard?
53:14 Non-Negotiables to be a Top College Team
57:56 First Big Hurdle on Pro Tour
1:00:21 Welcome to the Tour Match (Gasquet)
1:01:22 Favorite Matches From His Career
1:02:47 Playing Federer at Centre Court Wimbledon
1:06:06 Tactical Adjustments Federer Makes
1:07:39 From Babolat Aero to Yonex Zone
1:12:16 Trivia
1:17:58 Who Does Stevie Wants to See on The Changeover