Todd Martin: Choking, Composure & GOATs

This week on A Load of BS on Sport, Daniel Ross and Dan Biggar welcome former World Number 4 tennis player and two-time Grand Slam finalist, Todd Martin.

In a refreshingly honest conversation, Todd opens up about the psychology of choking in high-pressure moments—a topic most elite athletes shy away from discussing. From his composed upbringing that shaped his mental approach to tennis, to standing across the net from legends like Boris Becker, Pete Sampras and Andre Agassi, Todd shares what it's like to be an "elite underdog"—so close to greatness, yet just missing the ultimate prize.

We explore the mental battles of competing at the highest level, the weight of expectation when you're one point away from glory, and the often brutal reality of transitioning from professional sport. Todd reflects on his coaching experiences with Mardy Fish and Novak Djokovic, the subjective nature of greatness debates, and why success should be measured by personal growth rather than just trophies.

This episode offers a rare glimpse into the mindset of someone who reached the pinnacle of their sport whilst navigating the fine margins between triumph and heartbreak—and what happens when the spotlight fades.

Highlights Include:

• The psychology of choking and why athletes rarely admit to it
• Growing up with composure as a core value and how it shaped his career
• Competing against tennis superstars and the mental challenges that brings
• The pressure of Grand Slam finals and critical match moments
• Coaching elite players like Novak Djokovic and Marty Fish
• Transitioning from professional sport and finding new identity
• The greatest tennis player debate and why it's beautifully subjective
• Lessons on defining success beyond statistics and scores

Memorable Quotes

• "It's rare to hear someone admit they choked."
• "I was born to two amazing parents."
• "Composure was a priority in my upbringing."
• "I was raised with calm, cool and collected."
• "I knew I was walking out with a superstar."
• "Winning the right points is crucial."
• "It's definitely a choke moment."
• "Champions come from within."
• "Only you know if you're good enough."
• "I was remarkably unprepared."
• "Success is doing the best you can."

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