Former world No. 3 Stefanos Tsitsipas believes 2026 could represent a turning point — not only for his own career, but for Greek tennis more broadly. Tsitsipas looks to 2026 reset in Perth: “We are Greeks — we fight”, he said as he prepares to lead Greece at the United Cup in Perth alongside Maria Sakkari.
Speaking to international media ahead of the season-opening tournament in Western Australia, Tsitsipas said an extended break from competition late in 2025 allowed him to reset both physically and mentally after a back injury disrupted the latter half of his season.
The injury, which also forced him to limit his participation after representing Greece in the Davis Cup last September, raised serious concerns about his ability to sustain matches at the highest level.
“I had to step away from the courts for a while and really focus on recovery,” Tsitsipas said. “The final months of last season were physically draining, and my body was sending clear warning signs. I needed to listen.”
According to reporting from European tennis outlets, Tsitsipas sought specialist treatment from one of the world’s leading sports physicians, following recurring flare-ups that affected his mobility — including after his early exit at the US Open, where he reportedly struggled to walk for days.
“For several months, my biggest fear was not whether I could win matches, but whether I could finish them and still be able to play the next day,” he admitted. “That’s not a place you want to be mentally as an athlete.”
Now 27, the 12-time ATP titleholder says his priorities for 2026 have shifted toward longevity and consistency rather than rankings alone.
“At this stage, staying healthy is everything,” he said. “So far, my training has been pain-free, and that gives me confidence. If I can stay on court without discomfort, everything else will follow.”
Greece’s campaign begins in Perth
Greece opens its United Cup campaign at Perth’s RAC Arena against Japan, with Tsitsipas set to face Shintaro Mochizuki in his first official match of the new season. The tie also features a marquee women’s singles clash between Sakkari and Naomi Osaka, drawing global attention.
Tsitsipas said Perth has become a familiar and positive setting to launch the season, noting Greece’s repeated appearances at the event.
“We’ve spent a lot of time here over the years,” he said with a smile. “Perth is starting to feel like one of Greece’s unofficial tennis capitals. It’s a great environment to begin the year.”
A proven partnership with Sakkari
The Greek star also expressed enthusiasm about once again teaming up with Sakkari in mixed doubles — a pairing that has produced memorable performances, including at major international competitions and the Olympic Games.
“Our connection on court is very natural,” Tsitsipas said. “We understand each other’s instincts, strengths and limitations. That makes a huge difference, especially in mixed doubles, where chemistry is everything.”
International tennis analysts have frequently pointed to the Tsitsipas–Sakkari partnership as one of the most cohesive national pairings in the game, combining experience, tactical awareness and shared competitive intensity.
“We go all in”
As Greece prepares to take on some of the world’s strongest tennis nations, Tsitsipas struck a defiant and emotional tone.
“I want everyone on this team to feel ready — mentally and physically,” he said.
“We don’t hold back. We go all in. We are fighters. We are Greeks. And we’ll give everything we have.”
For Tsitsipas, Perth is not just the start of another season — but potentially the beginning of a renewed chapter, grounded in health, resilience and belief.
