The Functional Tennis Podcast

Justin Van Malderen from Luxilon is back on the Functional Tennis Podcast.
At the 2025 US Open, 55% of the Top 100 were using Luxilon strings. In this episode, we discuss why.
We talk about falling string tensions on tour, how modern powerful rackets are changing string demands, and why today’s aggressive baseline game requires more durability and control than ever.
We also dive into why I chose Luxilon Element for the FT99 racket, how it compares to 4G and Alu Power, and who it’s best suited for.
Justin shares insight into Sabalenka’s unique setup, the reality of sustainable strings, and how Luxilon competes as a family business in a market dominated by major global brands.
Plus, Justin is offering a €500 Functional Tennis voucher to one listener who fills out Luxilon’s string questionnaire. Tap here to fill it out and the last submission date is on March 31st.
If you care about your setup and want to understand what makes a difference at the highest level, this one’s for you.
Enjoy
Fabio

In this episode of the Functional Tennis Podcast, I’m joined by Yuhi Tanigaki, Product Manager for Tennis Footwear at ASICS, to go behind the scenes of the new Solution Speed FF4.
Yuhi plays a central role in shaping ASICS tennis shoes, working closely with designers, researchers, professional athletes, and recreational players to turn feedback into real on court performance.
We cover what actually goes into building a modern tennis shoe and how small changes can make a big difference.
In this episode, we discuss:
How long it really takes to develop a tennis shoe from first idea to retail
What stayed consistent from the original Solution Speed and what has evolved
The key updates in the Solution Speed FF4 and how they affect feel and movement
How ASICS balances speed, comfort, and durability without adding weight
The role of athlete feedback, including insights from Belinda Bencic
Differences between what professional players and recreational players value
Why ASICS sees the FF4 as an evolution rather than a complete redesign
Which type of player the Solution Speed FF4 is built for

This episode is a deep dive into tennis footwear design and a rare look at how performance products are actually created behind the scenes.

A brief catchup with whats been going on at Functional Tennis
Podcast break
New Saber Editions
The FT99
New 2027 products
Tariff complications
Podcast guests

This week on the Functional Tennis Podcast, Fabio chats with Jonas Eriksson, better known as Tennis Nerd, the go-to voice in the tennis world for rackets.
With the Functional Tennis Racket of the Year competition underway, Fabio and Jonas break down the most talked-about rackets of 2025, what to expect from the 2026 launches, and why so many pros are playing with blacked-out frames. They also dive into Wilson’s upcoming Pure Aero-style spin racket, shifts in pro player trends, and what makes the modern racket scene more competitive than ever.
If you love tennis gear talk, this one’s for you, and if you want info on all the rackets, check them out at Tennis Warehouse Europe and check out Jonas's YouTube account if you want in-depth reviews on the rackets.
This podcast is sponsored by ASICS. ASICS is a Japanese company founded in 1949 to give more people the opportunity to experience how sports and movement can have a positive impact on mental well-being.
To learn more about ASICS visit their website here: https://www.asics.com/nl/en-nl/sports/tennis/
Find us on Social Media:
Instagram: Instagram.com/FunctionalTennis
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@functionaltennis
YouTube: Functional Tennis Podcast

This week I’m joined once again by Dutch ATP player Jesper de Jong, who has continued his steady rise on the professional circuit.
Since our last chat, Jesper has broken into the top 100, reached his first ATP final at the Swedish Open, and played a key role for the Netherlands in Davis Cup. We talk about what feels different now that he’s inside the top 100, the lessons he’s learned from the tour grind, and how he balances results with enjoying the process. Jesper also shares insights from training blocks in Bali, the unforgettable match that sealed his top 100 spot, and what he’s learned from his girlfriend, a professional speed skater.
If you’re curious about the mindset and habits behind steady, sustainable progress, this episode is a great listen.
Fabio
This podcast is sponsored by ASICS. ASICS is a Japanese company founded in 1949 to give more people the opportunity to experience how sports and movement can have a positive impact on mental well-being.
To learn more about ASICS visit their website here: https://www.asics.com/nl/en-nl/sports/tennis/
Find us on Social Media:
Instagram: Instagram.com/FunctionalTennis
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@functionaltennis