Stefanos Tsitsipas has outlined how he has changed his game in order to help him win his first Grand Slam.
The world number four has reached the semi-finals on three previous occasions at the Australian Open and is desperate to join the game’s elite by lifting a major title. His best result at a Grand Slam came at the 2021 French Open, where he suffered a crushing loss to Novak Djokovic in the final despite winning the first two sets.
The Greek star last played at the inaugural United Cup, where he helped his nation reach the semi-finals and notched a thrilling three-set victory over Italy’s Matteo Berrettini in an overall 4-1 loss. Before beginning his latest Australian Open campaign against Frenchman Quentin Halys on Monday, Tsitsipas explained the tweaks he has made to not only his game but his diet in order to boost his chances of winning a major.
"I've improved a lot in my defensive play on the baseline. I've been toiling a lot in the past few months, both on the court and in the weight room,” the 24-year-old told German outlet Wettfreunde. "I have completely changed my diet for this. I can now say that I sacrifice myself completely to achieve the highest goals.
"I've become more consistent, I make fewer mistakes, even if it's supposed to get better. That's also because I'm not as hectic as I used to be. This makes my game more efficient overall. I've also gotten smarter and have found that I always play better under pressure. I'm on the right track, but I don't intend to rest on my laurels. I am very hungry and I am convinced that I can still go much further.”
Tsitsipas faces a tough draw, with a potential encounter with Jannick Sinner in round four and a possible clash with Felix Auger-Alliasime in the last eight. Should he negotiate those contests, he may have to overcome legends Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic back-to-back to claim glory Down Under.
It will be a tough task with the tennis star winning just two of his nine matches against the Spaniard, though he won their most recent encounter in Australia two years ago. Along with losing his last nine matches against Djokovic, Tsitsipas is fearless in his approach and will do his utmost to emerge victorious.
"I enjoy every moment more than I used to,” he explained. “On the court, I'm only concerned with my game and not at all with my opponent. It's all in the head anyway. If I make a wrong decision, it's my fault. It's understandable to feel some stress when stepping onto the pitch, especially when you're less confident. But when I play, I'm never scared. As a professional, it's my job to put on a show for the audience and entertain them.”
Furthermore, following a solid start to his season along with the transformations in aspects of his game and lifestyle, Tsitsipas believes he is capable of shocking the world in Australia.
"I think I've matured a bit over the past few months,” he said. “So I'm aware that if I'm able to fulfill my potential in Melbourne, I'll have a good chance of winning my first Grand Slam title in my career.
"This also includes a bit of luck and certain details, such as how you are on the day, which will play an important role. I have a good feeling. I've been training hard in the last few weeks after my vacation, especially in the endurance area. Now I feel ready for this new season.”
