The debate on the new format of the ATP Masters 1000 is generating issues and controversies among tennis players. Stefanos Tsitsipas, like other players, said he was against the new format of the two-week long ATP Masters 1000, in an exclusive interview with the Italian newspaper Corriere dello Sport on the eve of his match in Rome
“I would like the Masters 1000 to go back to 1 week. The new format is exhausting, I think it’s the reason why so many players are getting injured. With the exception of Indian Wells and Miami, the others should go back regardless of earnings. It’s no coincidence that there was a great show in Monte-Carlo: in the week-long tournaments the level is higher and the show is better for the crowd too,” he explained.
Stefanos Tsitsipas© Clive Brunskill / Staff Getty Images Sport
The Greek player explained that he dreams of winning a Grand Slam tournament and reiterated that it is his firm intention to return among the top 5 players in the world.
“If you saw how emotional I was in Monte Carlo you understand how much it meant to me. Dropping out of the top 10 was strange. First you feel like the CEO of a company and suddenly you’re an employee again. The top 10 is an exclusive club and you understand the value when you are no longer there. I hope to do even more and I want to be among the top 5 in the world,” he explained.
In Rome there was great enthusiasm for the training between the Greek and Rafael Nadal.
“He is still in excellent form, I continue to think he can raise the level further. Playing with him is always a pleasure, on clay he is the best ever and pushes you to the limit.”
Stefanos Tsitsipas© Alex Caparros / Stringer Getty Images Sport
Italy is experiencing a golden moment in tennis even if Jannik Sinner won’t be in Rome.
“I have experienced his progress and it is evident, he almost never makes mistakes on return, on serve he is more continuous and then there is the forehand. For me it is the shot that has improved the most of all,” said the Greek.
Tsitsipas won in Monte-Carlo, he had a misstep in Madrid where he was eliminated in the first round by Thiago Monteiro but now he plays Rome and Roland Garros among the main favourites.
He won’t miss much at Roland Garros, the second test of the year where he will be among the favourites: “Let’s say yes but I only start to consider myself a potential champion when I reach the semi-final. There I begin to have a chance to realize my dream. First there are many competitive opponents,” he said.
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