Tsitsipas admits long-hidden admiration for Nadal
Paris, May 24 (UNI) In a heartfelt admission on the sidelines of the French Open, Greek tennis star Stefanos Tsitsipas revealed he had always admired Rafael Nadal but never publicly acknowledged it — until now.
Tsitsipas said he always talked about Roger Federer as the person he admired, but he now feels it was a bit of both Federer and Nadal. He never admitted it was Nadal too, because he felt his game was closer to Federer's.
After Nadal's retirement, the younger generation is increasingly opening up about the Spaniard's impact — and Tsitsipas is no exception. The Greek star even mused that with a two-handed backhand like Nadal's, he might have had a chance at emulating the 14-time Roland-Garros champion's dominance.
Tsitsipas said maybe if he had a two-handed backhand like Nadal, he might have played as many Roland-Garros tournaments as him — 29 Roland-Garros, including 14 victories.
Having faced Nadal on clay, Tsitsipas reflected on the experience with both reverence and relief — especially for having avoided a match on Court Philippe-Chatrier, Nadal's most iconic battleground.
He said he was lucky not to play against Nadal on the Chatrier because it wouldn't have been a fun experience.
Tsitsipas credited Nadal with teaching him intangible qualities that define champions — determination and perseverance on a tennis court.
Tsitsipas also said it felt surreal to see a legend retiring. He said it was strange to see Nadal stop competing and live a different life than he lived for years.
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