Stefanos Tsitsipas recalls how Rafael Nadal INTIMIDATED him during their first-ever encounter
Stefanos remembers memories of playing his first Barcelona Open final in 2018 against Rafael Nadal.
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Stefanos Tsitispas and Rafael Nadal (Image Credit: WWOS-Nine)
Stefanos Tsitsipas recently played another final of the Barcelona Open and once again had to face defeat. However, this time he lost to Carlos Alcaraz. He lost this final 3-6, 4-6. However, soon he reminisced about another final that he played here in Barcelona.
Stefanos Tsitsipas reached the first final of the Barcelona Open of his career in 2018. However, the challenge posed before him was extraordinary in the form of Rafael Nadal, who was in impeccable condition and much fitter than now.
The Greek tennis professional remembered that he just did not have to battle it out against his opponent, but also the crowd who was in large numbers supporting Spain’s greatest tennis player wholeheartedly. He lost that match 2-6, 1-6.
The Tennis Letter shared his statement on social media.
“Stefanos Tsitsipas: “My first Barcelona Open final versus Nadal was not fun. I faced Rafa on the court carrying his name, with the entire stadium supporting him, which made sense. The first time I played against Rafa, I was not ready; I had not picked it up yet”,” the caption read.
Stefanos Tsitsipas again reached the final of this ATP 500 event in 2021 and again Rafael Nadal stopped him in his quest to clinch the title.
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Stefanos Tsitsipas chokes in another final
The Greek tennis professional is one of the most talented players on the tour. He, in a very less time, made an important mark for himself. He is also one of the most consistent players on the tour and has ranked always higher.
This year Stefanos Tsitsipas started the season on a high. He reached the semi-final of the United Cup with his team. However, they lost to Italy. Next, he participated in the Australian Open and reached the final. This was his career’s second final in a Major. However, Novak Djokovic again played the spoilsport, snatching victory from his jaws.
The story at the Barcelona Open was also nothing different. He reached the final of this competition. But the challenge of Carlos Alcaraz was insurmountable for him despite his fearless attitude on the court. He tried hard, but in vain. The scoreline read 6-3, 6-4 in favor of the current World No.2.
Although his performances did help him to gain some valuable ranking points, he is still bereft of important ATP titles this season. Stefanos Tsitsipas is in Madrid for the ATP 1000 Masters tournament. Hence, before the start of the French Open, this could be his chance to win one ATP title.
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Abhar Indorkar
(451 Articles Published)