Chris Eubanks: Tennis player, commentator, Olympian

Before his glimmering grass-court run at Wimbledon, Eubanks became known for his joy and genial attitude amongst players on the tour. In college, he won the USTA/ITA Sportsmanship Award in 2016 and the 2017 ITA Arthur Ashe, Jr. Leadership and Sportsmanship Award. He’s been referred to as “The Mayor” or “The Governor” by his fellow American players for getting to know everyone on the tour. While some players remain stoic and stone-faced in the company of potential competitors, Eubanks enthusiasm and friendliness has transformed potential on-court foes into off-court friends.

“Some people just kind of operate better when they are a little bit more to themselves, a bit more quiet,” Eubanks said.

Typically, throughout my career. I’ve played my best tennis when I’m a little bit more relaxed when I’m a bit talkative. I’m kind of having fun on the court. So I think it’s what lets me feel my most authentic self.

That Eubanks-brand of ebullience has dazzled tennis fans on courts around the world, and on their screens, as Eubanks has served as a commentator for the Tennis Channel. Eubanks is at home in-front of the camera and has no trouble providing in-depth commentary with the intimate knowledge of being a current touring professional. 

When asked about the Olympics and if he was a fan, commentator Chris made an appearance, easily rattling off the last few editions of the Games he watched.

“I can remember Beijing ’08,” Eubanks said. “I can remember London 2012, Rio 2016, Tokyo obviously 2020. And now, Paris 2024.”

And, like any good sports commentator, the storylines and stars.

“I believe it might have been ‘08 when Michael Phelps dominated. I believe Usain Bolt was probably 2012 when he dominated. So, I can remember a few sports here and there and big moments, but the tennis is always what really sticks out about those Olympics.”

Commentator Chris will have to take a backseat for Paris, as he turns his attention to his on-court game as a member of Team USA.