Tennis Coaching Legend | David Macpherson on Doubles, Serving, and Coaching Greatness 🎾
In this episode of Going Pro by ATA, we sit down with David Macpherson, former world-class doubles player and legendary coach to Bob and Mike Bryan, John Isner, and rising star Li Tu. With over two decades of experience on the ATP Tour, Macpherson shares deep insights into the evolution of doubles, what it takes to succeed at the highest level, and the mental and technical development of elite players.From behind-the-scenes stories of the Bryan Brothers' dominance to the exciting journey with Li Tu, this conversation is packed with value for players, coaches, and fans alike.
🔑 Topics Covered:
Why doubles deserves more attention and how to grow it
Serving fundamentals and changes made with Li Tu
Footwork, timing, and reducing unforced errors at pro level
The mindset needed to go from Challenger level to Top 50
Stories from coaching John Isner and the Bryans
What excites him about this new chapter in his career
📌 Whether you're a tennis coach, aspiring player, or lifelong fan, this episode offers rare insights from one of the game's great minds.
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00:00 – Intro: David Macpherson on Going Pro
01:12 – Playing days, early influences & Aussie tennis legends
04:50 – Why doubles? David’s transition from singles
08:30 – Breaking into ATP Tour as a young Aussie
12:14 – Behind-the-scenes of the Bryan Brothers’ success
17:32 – Coaching chemistry: How the Bryan Brothers worked together
21:58 – Life on tour with the world’s top doubles team
25:10 – What separates good from great players
28:40 – The mental game: Belief, calmness, and big moments
32:20 – Working with John Isner: Insights on a top singles career
36:14 – John Isner’s serve, growth, and late-career lessons
39:52 – Coaching philosophy: Patience, positivity, and precision
44:00 – Meeting Li Tu and beginning a new journey
46:20 – Li Tu’s game style: Offensive mindset and court presence
50:00 – What Li Tu needs to reach the top 100
52:00 – Serve development: Borrowing from Bob Bryan’s technique
53:20 – Reducing errors while staying aggressive
54:45 – Margins and belief: What makes the difference at the top
56:00 – Why this stage of coaching excites David the most
57:00 – Final words: Fire, hunger, and building champions