During the lockdown of 2020, Paul Munkholm found himself reflecting on past conversations with fellow tennis fans, particularly those he had met at the Indian Wells Open, a major tennis event held in the Southern California desert. It was during these reflections that Paul made an intriguing observation: tennis holds a special appeal among gay men, many of whom might not typically be considered sports enthusiasts. Realizing this, Paul saw an opportunity to connect with a largely untapped audience.
Paul's passion for tennis led him to create "The Ball Boys," a podcast launched in 2023 that dives into "the fuzz of the ball," a term Paul uses to describe everything that surrounds the sport of tennis. From on-court drama to discussions about the most physically appealing players on the tour, "The Ball Boys" covers it all.
By the summer of 2024, the podcast had evolved, featuring a rotating panel of guests, including Matt Coleman, a tennis enthusiast Paul connected with on Instagram. Together, they explore the sport through their unique lens, often sharing bold opinions. For instance, Paul's admiration for world No. 8 player Daniil Medvedev and Matt's appreciation for Romanian player Jacqueline Cristian's creative cosplay have sparked many lively discussions.
Get Involved in the Game
The podcast's weekly episodes offer a blend of casual conversations and important discussions on LGBTQ issues in sports. Paul invites listeners to subscribe to "The Ball Boys" newsletter for updates and insights into the world of tennis and beyond.
A Journey with Tennis
Paul's journey with tennis began at the tender age of four. He quickly grew to love the sport for its strategic depth and mental challenges, describing it as "the perfect sport." This passion saw him through playing on club teams and leading his high school tennis team as captain. However, as he came to terms with his sexuality, Paul felt pressured to distance himself from sports.
Despite this, tennis continued to beckon him back, but not just as an athlete. It became a lifestyle, a passion that took him around the globe to experience all four Grand Slam tournaments. Paul expresses a particular fondness for ATP 500 events, where the proximity to the action allows for a more intimate experience.
"The Ball Boys" podcast channels Paul’s enthusiasm for tennis, offering a space for fans to voice opinions that might not align with mainstream media. Paul acknowledges the competitive nature of the podcasting world, especially when former tennis pros like Andy Roddick, Sam Querry, and John Isner enter the scene. Yet, he believes the podcasting medium democratizes sports commentary, allowing fans to engage with the sport in new ways.
While "The Ball Boys" is known for its light-hearted tone, it is not afraid to tackle heavier topics, such as the inconsistencies in doping bans on the tour. Paul emphasizes that the podcast is a platform for discussions that resonate with every fan, from the gossip of courtside couples to the noticeable absence of openly gay men in top-tier tennis.
Building a Diverse Community
Although Paul is the driving force behind "The Ball Boys," he insists it's not solely about him. He strives to create a multidimensional, fun approach to tennis that invites diverse perspectives. In recruiting guests, Paul seeks individuals who can offer unique insights, particularly those who challenge his views. For the inaugural 2025 episode, he invited Ivy Pochoda, a novelist and former professional squash player, to share her perspective.
The podcast’s growth has been fueled by the vibrant exchange of ideas, encouraging Paul to feature guests with provocative viewpoints. Moving forward, he aims to make "The Ball Boys" more interactive, allowing listener participation and guest stories to enrich the experience. Paul has grand aspirations, dreaming of expanding the podcast’s format to cover multiple sports.
"The Ball Boys" is available on major platforms like Apple Podcasts and Spotify. You can reach out to Paul at [email protected].
Colby Grey, a freelance writer, covers topics ranging from sports to politics. He brings a personal touch to his stories, having played college tennis and openly shared his journey in 2019.
Stay connected with the latest in LGBTQ sports by subscribing to "The Ball Boys" newsletter, where you’ll find stories that inspire and engage.
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