About this episode
Rublev’s default from Dubai generated tons of discourse this week, and we devote quite a bit of time to it: the facts, the question of proportionality (of both Rublev’s actions and the umpire’s decision), and why player reactions aren’t the final word. We also recap the end of the lead-up to Indian Wells, with several players showing off the best tennis of their lives. Plus, Murray’s retirement talk; the ATP’s partnership with Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund; and the suspension of a low-ranked player for cannabis and how WADA decides to ban a substance. 2:15 Quick results recap: de Minaur, Boulter, Yuan, Humbert, Baez 8:30 The Rublev Default 13:10 The Act of (non)Contrition 25:35 Proportionality, in a few senses 34:45 Andy Murray talks about the end 38:40 #TheNetflixSlam: it was a bit tacky and very American, but overall a huge win for the sport 46:00 ATP partners with PIF 50:55 A 2-year suspension for weed? Also an opportunity for some nerdy anti-doping discussion