"I did not like the fact that he publicly shared his opinions," Apostolos Tsitsipas responds to Ivanisevic's criticism of his son
After Roland-Garros and struggling with confidence, Stefanos Tsitsipas enlisted the services of Goran Ivanisevic. The former Croatian professional player, winner of Wimbledon in 2001, hoped to revive the Greek player, who had fallen back to 28th place in the rankings.
But the collaboration between the two was short-lived. Ivanisevic, who is known for speaking his mind, had publicly criticized Tsitsipas in the media before and after the London Grand Slam, stating, among other things, that he was not physically ready to perform well in major tournaments.
Since the episode of his separation with Ivanisevic, Tsitsipas has apologized to his father Apostolos, who has resumed his role as coach. However, the duo will have to wait a bit longer to celebrate titles, as the 2019 ATP Finals winner exited the US Open in the second round after a loss to Daniel Altmaier (7-6, 1-6, 4-6, 6-3, 7-5).
The Greek has never advanced past the third round at Flushing Meadows (played in 2020 and 2021), confirming his struggles in New York. In any case, Apostolos Tsitsipas has responded to Ivanisevic's comments about his son.
"I did not like the fact that Goran Ivanisevic publicly shared his opinions. It's interesting for the public to have certain details, but the most important thing is to see Stefanos (Tsitsipas) produce good tennis.
But all the responsible parties were also in his team at that time. We are teachers. Coaches must create a working environment conducive to the proper development of their players.
Perhaps Goran saw something he didn't like. But he should have identified this issue at the beginning of his collaboration with Stefanos and discussed it directly with him.
Goran is very professional, I am certain he has his own ideas, he knows what to do to make things work, but he should have addressed this concern internally, personally with Stefanos.
I wouldn't say it's a new chapter opening between my son and me; it's more of a continuation but with greater wisdom, as Stefanos himself said.
As human beings, we learn from our mistakes, and if we're talking about wisdom, then yes, we must evolve things so that what happened in the past does not repeat itself.
We inspire our children and try to help them follow their own path, assisting them in doing what they love. Stefanos has his own ideas, his own way of expressing himself, and he has found photography to be creative.
It's important for him because it allows him to live his life to the fullest and express all his potential," Apostolos Tsitsipas stated in recent hours to the media outlet Clay.
