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Stefanos Tsitsipas, despite his notable achievements, continues to struggle to reach the pinnacle of the tennis world. The Greek star, who has won titles like the Masters 1000 and the ATP Finals in 2019, and reached the finals of Roland Garros 2021 and the Australian Open 2023, remains inconsistent. Younger players like Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner have already surpassed him, a situation reminiscent of his challenges against tennis legends like Nadal, Djokovic, and Federer.
Recent Setbacks and Changes in Coaching Team
Tsitsipas's inability to find the right formula has led to impatience within his inner circle. After a series of changes in his coaching team, including parting ways with his father and working with former Australian tennis player Mark Philippoussis, Stefanos has faced another blow. His physical trainer, Christos Fiotakis, resigned, expressing dissatisfaction with Tsitsipas's work ethic.
"I hope he understands that what I'm saying is right and climbs to the top of the podium. I'm not happy with Stefanos's work ethic. Beyond that, there are things beyond my control," Fiotakis commented.
The atmosphere within the team did not match Fiotakis's energy, leading to his departure. He emphasized that the team's priorities did not align with his own, questioning whether Tsitsipas's ultimate goal was to play tennis and win Grand Slams.
Tsitsipas's Struggles in 2023
The year 2023 has been particularly challenging for Tsitsipas. His repeated failures during the American tour and the start of the Asian tour prompted him to make drastic decisions regarding his team. In August, he decided to give his father, Apostolos Tsitsipas, some time off, a move he believed was healthy for both of them.
"I gave him some time off, which he hasn't had since I was 12. I think it's healthy for him to take a break and feel renewed again," Tsitsipas explained.
Mark Philippoussis was brought back as a consultant, but the collaboration proved unsuccessful. Tsitsipas felt out of sync and decided to end their partnership.
Return to Familiar Grounds
As the dust settled, Tsitsipas decided to return to familiar grounds, reinstating his father as his coach. Apostolos Tsitsipas has always been a significant figure in his career, and Stefanos acknowledged that he could not distance himself from him.
"My father has always been by my side, even when he wasn't physically present. He is here to stay. I never intended to change or remove my father. People always create rumors or try to destroy what you have with someone so close to you. Somehow, he is someone I can't push away," Stefanos stated.
Tsitsipas admitted that he lost part of his identity as a player under Philippoussis's methods and struggled to adapt. Now, with his father back in charge, the tennis world watches closely to see if this familiar partnership can finally bring the consistency and success that Stefanos Tsitsipas so desperately seeks.
Editor: Emiliia Morozova
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