ATP star Tommy Paul is currently living some of the biggest moments in his tennis career. The 27-year-old is facing the hard court specialist Jannik Sinner and aims to solidify his position along with his American compatriots. Although it is a big moment for Paul, the mentor behind his impressive runs has encountered similar situations many times alongside the likes of Jim Courier. Here’s everything to know about Brad Stine, the coach who helped build legendary legacies on the court.

Brad Stine is a name that resonates with excellence in the tennis world. Courier achieved the World No. 1 ranking and won four Grand Slam titles—two at the French Open and two at the Australian Open under his guidance. His coaching journey didn’t stop with that as he also played a crucial role in Kevin Anderson’s career, helping him reach the 2018 Wimbledon final and achieve a career-high ranking of World No. 5.

Stine’s resume is rather impressive as it is decorated by stints with other top players like Mardy Fish, Taylor Dent, Sebastien Grosjean, and Jonathan Stark. His coaching career began in 1986 with the USTA, where he worked with the junior national team and later transitioned to collegiate coaching with the Fresno State Men’s Tennis Team. He eventually founded the 360 Tennis Academy in Fresno, California.

Known for his intense and disciplined approach, Stine’s way of coaching reflects his admiration for military principles. “He’s a pretty hard-driving kind of guy,” says Dan McCall, who trained with Stine as a junior. Stine’s approach combines his “trial lawyer” mindset with a deep focus on character, dedication, and teamwork. “I look at my position as I have to go to my player and make an argument they’re going to buy into without a shadow of a doubt,” Stine explains.

Stine’s unique approach involved blending youthful energy with decades of experience, making him a standout coach. His influence is not just limited to the technical aspects of the game but also covers the mental and emotional well-being of the players under his guidance. Now that he continues to share his legendary experience with Tommy Paul, there’s still a lot more to come from the 26-year-old.

Brad Stine explains what pushes Tommy Paul to be better

Tommy Paul is not just aiming to be a good tennis player but is also determined to be one of the best. His coach, Brad Stine, who has a rich history of guiding top players like former World No. 1 Jim Courier, sees this drive in Paul every day, and their partnership continues to thrive.

“Tommy is dedicated to wanting to be a great tennis player. He doesn’t want to just be average,” Stine told ATPTour.com. According to Stine, Paul’s ambition is what sets him apart. Although reaching the Top 100 is already a significant achievement in the tennis world, Paul isn’t satisfied with just being among the best but consistently wishes for more.

This hunger for greatness makes Paul highly coachable, according to the legendary mentor. “Because of that commitment on his part, that allows me to coach and give him information that he absorbs, and that he wants to put into what he’s doing as a player to try and get better,” Stine added. Now that the 26-year-old is pursuing one of the most challenging campaigns of his career, it still remains to be seen how far he manages to extend the lead.