Stefanos Tsitsipas ready for Australian Open challenge

The 21-year-old is ready to put on a show at the Australian Open, where he will be counting on the support of Melbourne's large Greek community.

Stefanos Tsitsipas said he's looking forward to putting on a show at the Australian Open, a competition he has great memories of. Tsitsipas had his grandslam breakthrough in Melbourne last year when he reached the semifinal of the tournament.

“[I am] really looking forward to this new challenge that I have in front of me, to show something,” said Tsitsipas. “I have great memories from here last year, semi-finals, living the dream, playing with so much adrenaline. I really enjoy the crowd, the people's energy here."

The Greek has enjoyed considerable success after his grandslam breakthrough as he emerged 2019 Nitto ATP Finals champion, won three ATP Tour Titles as well as breaking into the Top 5 in the FedEx ATP Rankings for the first time.

Tsitsipas credited his achievements to his ongoing work to improve his mental aspect of the game and become a more balanced player.

“I found more balance within me. Before I was very inconsistent with my emotions. I could become, in a few of the matches, suddenly angry and frustrated… I've been really working on this. I think being balanced in my head and thinking in a straight line will help me.

“I'm going to try it. I mean, I hope it helps me grow as a player. I think balance is important for someone to grow. If you are just one day on, one day off with your emotions, they can cost you.”