Stefanos Tsitsipas admits Rafael Nadal inflicted a ‘painful’ humiliation on him, but he’s happy he did

·

Stefanos Tsitsipas has opened up about his 2019 Australian Open defeat to Rafael Nadal, admitting it was a ‘painful’ experience.

Tsitsipas knocked Roger Federer out of the tournament already before running into Nadal, but he was soundly beaten in the semi-finals.

In fact, it went so wrong for the Greek that he was even bageled in the third set to add the final insult to the 6-2, 6-4, 6-0 defeat.

Tsitsipas, though, while happy to admit it was a painful experience, also believes it was an absolutely necessary one.

“Tough losses are important for my career as they make me want to come back stronger, and without them I feel like I’m perfect: which I’m not,” Tsitsipas told ATPTour.com on that defeat to Rafael Nadal.

“They are crucial for everyone. That semi-final loss was painful, even though it was in three sets.

“I came so close to reaching a Grand Slam final, something I have always dreamed of doing. I also didn’t deliver much in that match, he played well.

“It was a shame, as I’d played well in the two weeks. I went back to the court two days [later] and started to improve.

“You can’t hit winners and aces all of the time, but I had this let-down [last] summer.

“I was trying to get better and better, but I started to go backwards — when you put in so much work and effort, but it has the reverse effect.

“But that’s what happened, and I knew I had to loosen up and not to expect too much.

“I had to enjoy the game, and not go out to get a big lead and win. You can’t get everything perfectly done.”

Sourced via Tennis Head.

Advertisement

Share:

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH TGH

By subscribing you accept our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

Advertisement

Latest News

The Greek passport (for Aussies) debacle: Part One

For quite a while now, I've been hearing complaints from Greek Australians about long delays in obtaining a Greek passport.

Harry Mavrolefteros’ First Education wins ‘Business of the Decade’ at National Awards

First Education, founded by Harry Mavrolefteros, was awarded 'Business of the Decade' at the 2025 Australian Small Business Champion Awards.

Little Legs Foundation sets monopoly World Record in memory of Alegra Vasiliou

The Little Legs Foundation officially set a new Guinness World Record for the most people playing Monopoly in a single venue.

Hellenic Medical Society of Australia’s Careers Day returns to inspire students

The Hellenic Medical Society of Australia invite all year 9-12 students to attend the HMSA ‘Pathways to Success’ Careers Day.

Melbourne man charged for impersonating police officer and assaulting families

Franesko Vamvakaris appeared in Ringwood Magistrates Court on Monday, facing charges of impersonating a police officer and unlawful assault.

You May Also Like

Orthodox Greeks celebrate the Dormition of the Virgin Mary

The Dormition of the Virgin Mary was celebrated across Greece and Australia on Monday with a number of church services and paniyiria.

Project to enhance tourist appeal of Monemvasia divides locals

The historical town of Monemvasia in Laconia, Greece, is set to receive a million euro makeover, including a new cable car.

Coalition pledge to upgrade Kogarah Greek Orthodox Parish hall if elected

The Greek Orthodox Parish and Community of Kogarah has received a major commitment from the Coalition, with $400,000 pledged.