Stefanos Tsitsipas, the world-renowned Greek tennis star, has shocked the tennis community by announcing his withdrawal from the US Open. The decision comes amid a series of struggles and a candid admission from Tsitsipas about his current form. “I am nothing compared to the player I was before,” Tsitsipas stated in a press conference, revealing the extent of his struggles with form and fitness over the past few months.
Tsitsipas, who reached the US Open third round in 2020 and 2021 and was a consistent presence in the later stages of Grand Slam tournaments, has faced a tumultuous season. The Greek player has struggled with consistency, failing to advance beyond the early rounds in several recent tournaments. His early exit from Wimbledon and a less-than-stellar showing in the lead-up to the US Open have raised concerns about his current level of play and mental state.
In his emotional statement, Tsitsipas spoke openly about his internal battles, noting a loss of confidence and a disconnect with his game. “I’ve been battling with myself more than with my opponents on the court,” he admitted. “The player I used to be, the one who reached the French Open final and was consistently fighting in the top ten, feels like a distant memory. I need time to rediscover myself, to reconnect with the passion and drive that once defined my game.”
His decision to withdraw from the US Open highlights the pressures top athletes face in maintaining peak performance levels. Tsitsipas has been open about his desire to focus on his mental and physical well-being, prioritizing a return to the basics that built his career. “I need to step back and work on my foundations,” he explained. “The mental and physical aspects of tennis are intertwined, and right now, I’m not in the place I need to be to compete at my best.”
Tsitsipas’s withdrawal is a significant blow to the US Open, which has already seen several high-profile withdrawals this year. His absence leaves a notable gap in the men’s draw, and fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how he manages this challenging period in his career.
While the future remains uncertain for Tsitsipas, his honesty about his struggles reflects a broader shift in sports toward acknowledging mental health and well-being. “I owe it to myself to take this time,” Tsitsipas said, leaving the door open for a comeback once he feels ready. His fans, though disappointed, are rallying around him, hoping this step back is what he needs to return stronger and more determined than ever.
