The Changeover Podcast Big 3 Start Bench Cut, Getting Robbed & Serve Hot Take ft. Evan Zhu
Nov 29, 2025
Evan Zhu, a professional tennis player, chats about his recent Asia tour and the challenges of recovering from a facial injury in Acapulco. He reflects on highs and lows of the season, including the grind of travel and a memorable Serbian tournament experience. The discussion also touches on dealing with personal issues while competing, the dynamics of training in top tennis generations, and advice on serving techniques. Additionally, they debate changes to tennis ranking systems and share some hilarious anecdotes from their careers.
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Evan Zhu's Near-Fatal Fall And Recovery
- Evan Zhu described falling face-first into a stone pillar in Mexico and fracturing his nose and skull area after tripping on a hotel step.
- He detailed dental repairs, eating porridge-type food, and holding his lip together until stitches, showing recovery resilience.
Low Point: Remote Serbia Grind
- Justin Roberts recalled a grueling Serbia challenger where travel and isolation made him question the grind of tour life.
- He described long bus rides, sparse facilities, losing the match, then getting sick, illustrating tour hardships.
Playing Through A Family Medical Crisis
- Jody Maginley shared a family emergency during a match in France where his grandmother's health crisis distracted him before play.
- He said tennis felt irrelevant during that time but he still performed well, highlighting conflict between personal life and sport.