Stefanos Tsitsipas has confirmed recent reports as he has indeed decided to return his father to his coaching staff after a messy split that occurred exactly one year ago.
After making a splash coaching move – hiring Goran Ivanisevic – and believing that was the move that would completely change his situation, the Greek was hit by a cold shower after Novak Djokovic's former long-time coach declared him "the most unprepared player" he has ever seen. That came after only two tournaments together.
While Tsitsipas didn't publicly react or instantly split with Ivanisevic, he did so last week prior to kicking off his North American hard-court swing. In one of his interviews after the split, the 26-year-old used the word "dictator" when explaining what he didn't want to have in his team.
When asked about the split, Ivanisevic claimed that Tsitsipas decided to start working again with his father Apostolos. Now, the current world No. 30 himself has confirmed that through an Instagram message.
"Some journeys have a way of circling back to where they began. After some time apart, I've reunited with the person who first believed in me—my father. I'm grateful to share the court and the road ahead with him once again. We've been through ever chapter of this journey together, and this next one feels right. Sometimes, coming home is the boldest step forward," the 26-year-old said.
Tsitsipas had a very messy split with his father Apostolos
Exactly 12 months ago, during Tsitsipas' opening-round match against Kei Nishikori, he started screaming at his father and nervously waving at him. The Greek's dad responded by getting out of his seat and leaving the court.
Later, the two-time Grand Slam finalist ripped his father by stating that he "was not the smartest" in certain situations. The very next day, they ended their professional collaboration.
Before his short stint with Ivanisevic, Tsitsipas also worked with Greek Davis Cup team captain Dimitris Chatzinikolaou.
The Greek is only 19-13 this year and has fallen to No. 30 in the world – a far cry from where he wants to be. It remains to be seen if his father can help him rediscover his game that was once making him one of the best in the game.
