Stefanos Tsitsipas

Stefanos Tsitsipas is one of the most stylish players on the ATP Tour, and that classical one-handed backhand — it harks back to a previous era of tennis and it’s absolutely beautiful to watch. The Greek reached the 2021 Roland Garros final, where he led Novak Djokovic by two sets before falling in five (still painful to think about), and has been a fixture in the top 10 for several years. His 2019 ATP Finals title announced him as a major force in the sport.

Tsitsipas has a special connection with the Australian Open that runs deep. His breakthrough Grand Slam result came in Melbourne when he defeated Roger Federer in the fourth round of the 2019 tournament en route to the semi-finals. At just 20 years of age, it signalled the arrival of a generational talent. He has a large Greek-Australian fan base that creates an electric atmosphere whenever he steps onto court at Melbourne Park — and I mean genuinely electric.

The Athenian’s game is built on variety and flair. That one-handed backhand produces breathtaking winners, the serve is powerful and well-placed, and his willingness to come to the net adds another dimension. While his consistency has fluctuated, on his best day Tsitsipas can produce tennis of the absolute highest quality.

Career Statistics

Player Profile

Stefanos Tsitsipas remains a popular and dangerous player on the ATP Tour, with the talent to beat anyone on his day. His connection with Melbourne through the Greek-Australian community makes the Australian Open one of his favourite tournaments, and that elegant one-handed backhand continues to be one of the most beautiful shots in modern tennis.

NC — Staff sports writer, australiafootball.com