Stefanos Tsitsipas 'much better' than a month ago after skipping singles match at United Cup, set for double duty against Canada
ATP
Stefanos
Tsitsipas (world No. 6) skipped his singles match in the 2024 United Cup, where
he was scheduled to face Nicolas Jarry (No. 19) in the second rubber of the
series between Greece and Chile. In the series' opening match, Maria Sakkari
(No. 8) dominated Daniela Seguel (No. 673) with a 6-0, 6-1 victory, and
Tsitsipas was gearing up for his match in the subsequent session.
Minutes
before the match, he decided to withdraw, citing back problems. Consequently,
19-year-old Stefanos Sakellaridis stepped in to challenge Jarry. Despite a
strong performance by the young Greek, Jarry struggled but ultimately secured a
6-3, 3-6, 7-5 victory.
Tsitsipas
later teamed up with Sakkari for mixed doubles, aiming to secure a win for
Greece. However, they lost a hard-fought match against the Chilean pair of
Seguel and Tomas Barrios Vera, with a scoreline of 6-7(5), 6-3, [10-6].
Tsitsipas acknowledges not being 100% physically fit.
The Greek
team lost their opening match in the United Cup and will now be tasked with
defeating the Canadian team while also relying on the final results from other
group matches in Sydney. The 2-times Grand Slam champion commented on his
withdrawal from the singles match, citing that he is not in his best physical
condition:
“I'm much
better than what I was a month ago. I wasn't 100% sure that I will have the
chance to play the United Cup. It didn't really cross my mind when I was
considering my comeback. I went through tough times at the end of the year.
Things weren't looking very good.”
“Today I
was feeling great. There was just one moment during the match that I felt
something. But I think I shouldn't be concerned about it too much. It's not a
major issue that I'm facing. There are big chances I might do both.”
Greeks and
Canadians will play on January 3, with Steven Diez taking on the role of the
male singles player due to some physical discomfort for Felix Auger-Aliassime,
and he is scheduled to face Tsitsipas. Later, Sakkari will face an inspired
Leylah Fernandez, who has had great performances in recent months. The series
will conclude with the doubles match: Tsitsipas and Sakkari will team up again
to face Fernandez, and possibly Auger-Aliassime may appear in the doubles.
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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