Jan. 27, 2026

Why Small Wins Matter More Than Big Expectations

Why Small Wins Matter More Than Big Expectations

In today’s episode, I talk with Patrick McEnroe about managing expectations, raising resilient athletes, and why growth comes from focusing on progress instead of outcomes.

In today’s episode, I sit down with Patrick McEnroe, former professional tennis player, longtime broadcaster, and president of the International Tennis Hall of Fame. We talk about what years in elite sports teach you about pressure, patience, and personal growth, especially for young athletes navigating expectations shaped by social media. Patrick shares lessons from coaching kids, parenting teenagers, and competing at the highest level, including how listening changes performance, why small goals matter more than wins, and how to separate identity from outcomes. We also get into how tennis has evolved, what truly separates top players across eras, and why fulfillment comes from pursuing your own potential, not chasing comparisons.