Rafael Nadal’s absence in Monte Carlo termed ‘advantageous’ by defending champion Stefanos Tsitsipas

World number 3 Stefanos Tsitsipas speaks on the impact of Rafael Nadal's absence at Monte Carlo Masters 2023.

Rafael Nadal’s absence in Monte Carlo termed ‘advantageous’ by defending champion Stefanos Tsitsipas

Stefanos Tsitsipas and Rafael Nadal

On Saturday afternoon in Monte Carlo, the tennis world gathered for the start of the Monte-Carlo Masters 2023. Among the players present was the current double title holder, Stefanos Tsitsipas, who spoke at a press conference about the absence of Rafael Nadal, a player with 11 titles on the Rock.

Tsitsipas acknowledged that Nadal’s absence could be seen from two different perspectives. On the one hand, not having to face a player who has had such incredible success on clay is undoubtedly an advantage. However, on the other hand, Tsitsipas also recognized that playing against a player like Nadal can bring significant benefits to each player’s game.

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“On the one hand, we won’t have to face a player who wins so much on clay. And on the other hand, when we play tennis, challenging this kind of players brings benefits to each of us, to increase our level. It makes us grow when we have to play against him ,” Tsitsipas said.

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While it’s unfortunate that Nadal is still in the recovery phase and unable to compete in this year’s Monte Carlo Masters, his absence provides an opportunity for other players to step up and showcase their skills. The tournament remains highly competitive, and there are many talented players on the field who will be looking to make their mark.

Continue reading: Toni Nadal calls Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal ‘slow’ in comparison to Felix Auger-Aliassime

Can Stefanos Tsitsipas defend his title at Monte-Carlo Masters 2023?

Stefanos Tsitsipas 1
Stefanos Tsitsipas
Image via: The New York Times

Stefanos Tsitsipas is a Greek professional tennis player who has quickly risen through the ranks to become one of the top players in the world. Known for his aggressive playing style and powerful shots, Tsitsipas has become a fan favorite and a formidable opponent for anyone on the ATP tour.

For Tsitsipas, the focus will be on his own game as he prepares to face either Benjamin Bonzi or Bernabe Zapata Miralles in his first match. As the world number three and a two-time title holder at Monte Carlo, Tsitsipas will undoubtedly be looking to make a strong start to his campaign and defend his crown.

Overall, Tsitsipas is in with a good chance of winning the Monte Carlo Masters 2023. He has a strong record on clay, is in good form, and has a favorable draw. Of course, tennis is a highly unpredictable sport, and anything can happen on any given day, but if Tsitsipas can play at his best, he could well add a third Monte Carlo title to his growing list of achievements.

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