Last Updated on February 4, 2022
The current number four in the world rankings Stefanos Tsitsipas had to work harder than expected to settle Taylor Fritz. The Greek tennis player beat the American 4-6, 6-4, 4-6, 6-3, 6-4 in the fourth round of the Australian Open.
Tsitsipas commented on the fact that he did not notice how he won the second set. After taking a break at the end of the second set, he was preparing to serve, not going for a change of sides.
“It’s not the first time – and I think that’s a good thing. It shows that you’re very focused and thinking only about the game.At this point, I was concentrating on the geometry schemes and the structure of the game. I focus on every ball, try to dictate the game, and think about the future – if I hit a certain shot, what will follow.
Now I’ve started playing chess – and I’m just as immersed in it. I think it’s good to be able to get so immersed in something that you don’t notice anything around you. And when that happens, it feels like time slows down.”
#4 Stefanos Tsitsipas comes back to beat American #1 Taylor Fritz 4-6, 6-4, 4-6, 6-3, 6-4 and reach another #AusOpen QFs.
The two times semifinalist will face Jannik Sinner next.
[getty] pic.twitter.com/HEV4BJi5LC— José Morgado (@josemorgado) January 24, 2022
Tsitsipas bounced back from 1-2 in sets for the fourth time in his career (he initially lost 0-2 in two matches) and reached the quarterfinals of a Grand Slam tournament for the fifth time. In Australia, he did it for the third time (two more at Roland Garros).
“Epic match, nothing more to say. I left with all my strength, very proud of the way I fought, stayed stable in the key moments. The emotions were overwhelming. The stadium was just blazing. It’s all too good to be true. I knew my stamina would play a role, and I kept reminding myself, “Come on, work hard, don’t give up. Have a little patience. In the end, it brought results.
What helped me was that the stadium was for me. I felt like they were pushing me in the tough moments. The atmosphere played a very important role. Thank you,” the Greek commented on his win.
In the quarterfinals, Tsitsipas will play 20-year-old Jannick Sinner. He defeated Alex de Minaur of Australia in the third-round match.
“Jannick has been playing really well lately and had a terrific 2021. I expect a lot of tennis from him.
The Greek also commented on the condition of his elbow, which he underwent surgery on two months ago.
“It’s a huge relief that I can play without pain. I’m very happy to be able to compete at this level. I had a rough few months in 2021, and I’m glad the pain isn’t showing itself now.”
