Jannik Sinner 'one of the favourites during the entire clay court swing' says Stefanos Tsitsipas, calls him 'world class'
ATP
Stefanos Tsitsipas expressed
that Jannik Sinner is one of the favorites in the clay swing, after handing him
his second defeat of the season in the semifinals of the Monte-Carlo Masters.
The Greek subsequently clinched his third title in Monaco.
The 2-times Grand Slam
finalist surprised in the semifinals by overcoming the Italian, who had been
virtually unbeatable with a record of 25-1 in 2024 and three titles. Tsitsipas
claimed victory by 6-4, 3-6, 6-4 and joins Carlos Alcaraz, who defeated Sinner
in the semifinals of Indian Wells.
After the title, Tsitsipas was
asked if he believes Sinner is capable of winning the upcoming challenges on
clay at the Rome Open and French Open: "He is a very good tennis player on
all surfaces. I think he has the game to play well everywhere," he said.
Sinner has a 46–21 win-loss record on clay (69%)
Tsitsipas highlights Sinner's growth on clay
The world No. 2 hadn't shown
significant results on clay until now, considering that only one of his 13
titles was on clay at the 2022 Umag Open, where he defeated Alcaraz in the
final. Tsitsipas emphasized that Sinner has significantly elevated his level on
this surface.
“The last time that we played
that was here, I see his level in a much different level than the last times
that I think I played him in Rome, twice in Rome, actually, on clay. I wouldn’t
count the hard courts because these are different, but I’m only comparing
against a particular surface.
“So since the last two times
that we played each other in those instances, he’s much better player now than
he was back then. And I saw it the other day, he was pushing me to my limits,
and I had to reach a level of physicality that I haven’t felt myself before in
a long time.
“It was very small margins
that played an important role in the development of that match. I do believe
he’s one of the favourites during the entire clay court swing.”
Stefanos Tsitsipas took his third Monte-Carlo title
Tsitsipas commented on his third title in Monte-Carlo
The Greek Lightning has three
Masters 1000 titles so far, all on clay. Tsitsipas, who defeated Casper Ruud
6-1, 6-4 in the tournament final, expressed that his level of play throughout
the week in Monte-Carlo surpassed the titles he won in 2021 and 2022: "If
I have to compare my level of tennis with the last two times that I have won
here, I would probably say this time has been the best that I have come up with
some incredible tennis," he said.
“You can easily say, ‘Stef,
you won the first time here without dropping a set, wouldn’t that be the best
performance that you have had in Monte-Carlo?’ I would tell you, ‘Not exactly’,”
the former world No. 3 added.
“I had an opponent in the
semi-finals that is a world-class tennis player right now who refused to lose
to anyone, and he’s been on a very good streak. So overcoming that obstacle,
it’s definitely a sign that my tennis is progressing and I’m able to push those
players,” he concluded.
Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist
Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.
His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.
In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.
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