Greek tennis star Stefanos Tsitsipas has responded to critics, defending his decision to have his father, Apostolos Tsitsipas, as a prominent figure in his coaching team. He also shed light on his recent coaching changes, particularly the split with coach Mark Philippoussis.
“Mark Philippoussis is no longer a part of my coaching team. I decided to experiment with having a coach to see how it would work out. However, our partnership didn’t quite click, and not having my father around felt like I was losing a crucial part of my identity as a player.I found it challenging to adapt to the new coaching methods and approaches introduced by Mark, despite my admiration for him and enjoying watching him on TV when I was younger.” Tsitsipas told on Tennis TV.
Tsitsipas revealed that his father has been a constant presence in his tennis journey, either physically or digitally, and he has no intention of excluding him. He emphasized his determination to maintain this crucial bond despite any rumors or attempts to disrupt it.
“My Dad has always been there” 🫶@steftsitsipas reveals his father is back on his coaching team – but his partnership with Philippoussis is over…#RolexShanghaiMasters pic.twitter.com/pbRsIslQG0
— Tennis TV (@TennisTV) October 4, 2023
Regarding his coaching relationship with Philippoussis, Tsitsipas explained that the partnership didn’t align well, leading to their separation. He acknowledged his admiration for Philippoussis but found it challenging to adapt to the coaching methods introduced by the former Wimbledon finalist.
After a recent stint at the Beijing Open, where Tsitsipas faced an early exit, he is now preparing for the Shanghai Masters as the fourth seed, looking to regain his form and perform well in the upcoming tournament.
Stefanos Tsitsipas in 2023
Ranked no.6, Tsitsipas played his last match on the 29th of September when he lost to world no.22 Nicolas Jarry 6-4 6-4 in the 1st round in Beijing (draw).
Presently, during this year Stefanos achieved a compiled 42-18 record. Stefanos clinched 1 title in Los Cabos. The Greek was the finalist at the Australian Open and Barcelona.
Tsitsipas will play next in Antwerp (European Open). He will start the tournament from the main draw that will commence on the 16th of October.
Stefanos Tsitsipas |
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