Stefanos Tsitsipas: “I had to play badly at times”

The difficulties he faced inside and outside the playing fields were discussed by Stefanos Tsitsipasat the press conference after the victory over Lucas Klein, on the first day of the Davis Cup.

The top Greek tennis player referred to the white seats that limited the visibility of the players, while he declared that he was proud of himself for overcoming the difficulties and getting the precious, for the Greek team, victory.

In detail, what he said at the press conference:

“The experience was fantastic. Things were very difficult today and I went through a lot of difficulties on the pitch to find my footing and give the team the win. The crowd got into the mood a little later into the match, there were some personal difficulties for me on and off the pitch, but I’m happy that I fought and found solutions. The important thing for me is to be able to fight, not to ‘break’ and that brings me the greatest pleasure. Today I showed that I am strong, my fitness was the most important thing and the reason I won this race».

For the difficulties, to which he referred: “I know that the conditions are the same for both teams, but it is very difficult to see the ball when there are white bleachers behind the field. There were times, especially on serves, where the ball was lost and it’s very difficult to find the ball where you want it. It is very important at this level because split seconds can make a difference, or the decisions that will be made when you are behind the ball if you lose a few seconds. It’s not junior tennis. It would be different if we were playing 12s, but at this level it has never happened to me before. Those who made this decision did not think it through».

For the match: “It was a high-intensity match, I expected this level from him, he is a player who has been in the Top 100. I had to stay there and fight. Quitting was not an option for me, especially playing in front of my countrymen. I had to play badly at times but it worked, I got the win and I’m happy about it».

For Klein’s cramps in the last set: “I was able to endure the hardships of the fight longer than he did. I knew it would get to this point, where the match would become more physical. I was ready for this and have trained many hours. I grew up playing in these conditions and I’m proud of myself for being strong and resilient».

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