TENNIS.com Podcast: Joel Drucker on Federer and the 2020 Aussie Open

The veteran writer has an inside take on Federer's chances in Melbourne and beyond.



TENNIS.com Podcast: Joel Drucker on Federer and the 2020 Aussie Open

"I love it. I still keep all my credentials and I get excited when I get my credential and I think, wow, yeah, they’re paying me this time."

As writer Joel Drucker heads to Melbourne for his 12th Australian Open, he joins Nina Pantic to preview the first Grand Slam of the year, and dive into his recent TENNIS Magazine cover story about Roger Federer.

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The 59-year-old author of two books is entering his fifth decade of covering the game. He shares his tips and tricks to reporting, including how he found out that Ken Rosewall writes a handwritten letter to Federer ahead of every Australian Open. Drucker talks about his experiences interviewing Federer, including a memorable Indian Wells encounter.

Roger Federer of Switzerland attends a practice session in Melbourne on January 16, 2020, ahead of the Australian Open tennis tournament. (Photo by ASANKA BRENDON RATNAYAKE / AFP) / -- IMAGE RESTRICTED TO EDITORIAL USE - STRICTLY NO COMMERCIAL USE -- (Photo by ASANKA BRENDON RATNAYAKE/AFP via Getty Images)
© AFP via Getty Images

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A preview of the Happy Slam wouldn't be complete without discussion of the Big Three, as well as defending champion Naomi Osaka. Australian favorite Alex de Minaur pulled out, but Nick Kyrgios and Ashleigh Barty are two homegrown stars poised to make an impact this fortnight.

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The views, information, and/or opinions expressed are solely those of the podcast creators and do not necessarily represent those of The Tennis Channel, Inc., its affiliates or subsidiaries.