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Tsitsipas Finds Freedom: Father-Son Duo Splits, Tennis Soars
20 Oct
Summary
- Stefanos Tsitsipas improved his game significantly after separating coaching from family.
- His ranking rose from No. 88 to within the Top-30 post-Wimbledon.
- Tsitsipas now wields his backhand as a weapon, adding variety to his game.
Stefanos Tsitsipas is playing his best tennis in years, crediting a recent separation from his father as coach for his improved form and renewed confidence. The 28-year-old Greek player, who has been a Top-10 fixture for five consecutive years from 2019 to 2023, saw his ranking drop to No. 88 due to a combination of a back injury and the pressure of mixing professional duties with his familial relationship.
Since ending his professional association with his father, Apostolos, Tsitsipas has experienced a significant turnaround. His win-loss record since Wimbledon has improved dramatically to 21-8, including a title win in Gstaad in July, ending a 16-month drought. He now works with Thomas Perrin, with Patrick Mouratoglou overseeing his development.
Tsitsipas feels his game has evolved, particularly his single-handed backhand, which he now utilizes as a potent weapon, adding significant variety and tactical depth to his play. This newfound freedom allows him to experiment and take risks, moving away from safe options and focusing on growth, a stark contrast to the pressure he previously felt.