Stefanos Tsitsipas once faced a life-threatening situation as a teenager, but his father, Apostolos, saved him.
Their relationship has been under media scrutiny for years. Apostolos was Stefanos’ coach for most of his career until they ended their partnership in August.
Some believe that not hiring an experienced coach held Stefanos back from reaching the heights achieved by players like Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz.
| Name | Age | Points | Stats 2024 |
|---|---|---|---|
| gr Stefanos Tsitsipas | 26 | 3,740 | 28 - 10 |
Family Ties and Coaching Changes:
In August, after losing to Kei Nishikori at the Canadian Open, Stefanos publicly criticized his father. This event marked the end of their coaching relationship. According to a former physio, Stefanos had considered parting ways with Apostolos before, but felt guilty due to his mother’s reminders of all his father had done for him.
The Tsitsipas family didn’t appreciate these comments from the physio and decided to take legal action against him. Fans might wonder if this is necessary or just drama.
Apostolos’ role wasn’t limited to tennis; he once saved Stefanos from drowning when he was 15. This incident left a lasting impression on Stefanos’ view of life.
“It was a terrifying experience,” said Stefanos in Hola! magazine. “I don’t think I’ve ever had such an experience… taught me to live every moment.”
“The sea has a great cultural value in Greece,” he continued, reflecting on how unpredictable nature can be and how it shaped his understanding of life’s dangers.
Luckily, there were no physical injuries from that day at sea. Fans have since enjoyed watching Stefanos play on the ATP Tour with no visible scars from that incident.
However, mentally, it changed him forever. Nearly losing one’s life often leads to a profound shift in perspective.
This might explain why it was tough for him to separate professionally from Apostolos—it’s different when your coach is also your lifesaver dad.
Stefanos eventually chose to move forward without Apostolos as his coach. Will this decision help him excel further in 2025? What do you think about this change?
