Matt Rife takes first tennis lesson with Chris Eubanks, discovers Spanish grunting improves shot quality

“Super lucky today. Matt Rife asked Tennis Channel for the opportunity to get a good tennis coach, so else to bring besides myself?” the 2023 Wimbledon quarterfinalist shared.

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"The wrist is everything," picked up Rife.

Responded Rife, “Already incorrect. Tennis Channel asked me if I wanted to embarrass myself. They were like, ‘have you ever played before?’ I said, ‘not a day in my life.’ So then they brought in the best.”

The two began with a round of tennis trivia, where Rife pleasantly surprised Eubanks.

“Forehand is just open palm,” described the Columbus, Ohio native, who also acts.

“I’ve never heard it put that way but you’re exactly right,” commended Eubanks.

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Comedian Matt Rife reflects on first tennis outing with Chris Eubanks | TC Live

Debating the sport’s GOAT, Rife tipped Novak Djokovic as his selection—having witnessed the Serbian's greatness in person at the 2024 Australian Open. Eubanks then began the hitting portion of his instruction with some soft toss drills. Sidebar: he is a phenomenal, patient teacher.

Following a few minutes of warming up groundstrokes, it was time for an education on the art of grunting.

“Maybe let the grunt determine the quality of shot,” suggested the player-turned-commentator.

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Getting a consistent ball toss is more of a challenge than people realize, as Rife learned.

Rife took the advice to heart, resulting in Eubanks telling his new student, “I feel like your shots are getting better with it. You’re just letting go of the tension.”

As for Rife’s favorite exertion during the light-hearted exercise, he joked that “I’m so Spanish.”

A tutorial in serving basics preceded a chance to face the former Georgia Tech star's cannon and be moved side-to-side on the baseline. The 30-year-old was humbled by the experience, admitting, “That was tremendously harder than I thought it was going to be.”

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One had to expect this would happen at some stage.

While Rife picked up balls, a young fan called out to him from above the court.

“He should have no idea who I am. That’s terrible parenting!” he told the accompanying mother.

“He has never seen your stuff,” she reassured.

“Nice to meet you buddy. Enjoy your future detentions, alright,” wrapped Rife as he tossed each of her sons a ball to close out the session.