Stefanos Tsitsipas has decided to bring in Mark Philippoussis to replace his father as head coach, just months after parting ways with the Greek Australian.
Philippoussis is taking the lead on coaching the Greek, while the 24-year-old’s father, Apostolos, is taking a break.
“My father right now, I gave him some time off. He hasn’t had time off since I’m 12 years old,” Tsitsipas said in his pre-tournament press conference at the Toronto Masters on Monday.
“I think for him, it’s very healthy to take some time away from the court and feel refreshed again.
“I love him and I want him to be part of that journey that we have built together, and he’s not going anywhere. He’s still with us, and he’s still there following our path and journey.”
Philippousis, a former Wimbledon and US Open finalist, initially joined Tsitsipas’ coaches’ box in the second half of last season. Tsitsipas had been in career-best form with Philippoussis in his box, including making the final the Australian Open in January.
Philippousis was also with Tsitsipas in Los Cabos last week when the 24-year-old beat Australian star Alex de Minaur in the final to claim his 10th ATP Tour title.
“Mark is a parent himself,” Tsitsipas said when asked about his head coach decision.
“He’s not my father, but he’s been through a lot of moments in his own personal career that he can identify and capture better in certain ways… he’s a big addition to our team.”
Source: ATP Tour.
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