Love match Stefanos Tsitsipas and Paula Badosa never have a moment of awkward silence. From talking about their love life to future goals, the power couple covers all bases. The European athletes followed the Euro Cup day-by-day as Badosa’s country won the trophy. The pair’s recent live Instagram session, where they walked through several topics, saw Tsitsipas picking a new favorite.

The Greek player revealed his admiration for a young soccer sensation as he wreaked havoc in the Euro Cup and broke some records. His candid admission seemingly forces him to be on the outs with soccer legend Lionel Messi, one who was previously termed as the Greek’s “favorite.” In the couple’s Instagram live session, the former World No. 3 addressed his fondness for Spanish soccer professional Lamine Yamal.

The young 17-year-old has made waves in the sporting world with his impressive performances, and even the Greek wasn’t immune to his charm. Tsitsipas labeled the Spaniard as his “favorite player,” an admission that the former World No. 2 Badosa couldn’t argue with. “Yamal is currently my favorite player. I just love the kid. He’s so cool. I like it.”

Tsitsipas, in 2023, voiced his dream to cross paths with the Argentine. “He is one of my favorite players. He is simple and a beautiful person, not just an athlete. I hope to be able to meet him, it would be my dream.” However, he probably dreams of meeting Yamal right now. It is no surprise that Tsitsipas loves Spanish athletes, quite literally. After previously declaring four-time Grand Slam champion Carlos Alcaraz as his role model, the Greek voiced his liking for the young Yamal.

His support for Spanish athletes went a step ahead as he picked Spain as his favorite to win the Euro Cup before the tournament began. Although, his pick was rather “diplomatic,” as he puts it. “I’ve got to keep my girlfriend happy. I’ve got to support Spain. It’s a very diplomatic answer, Yes.”

But what exactly prompted the 25-year-old to reach that conclusion? Especially because the Greek previously claimed that he wouldn’t put any soccer player above Messi. Let us delve into the details surrounding the teen talent’s recent accomplishments.

Stefanos Tsitsipas’ favorite player Lamine Yamal won the Best Young Player award at 17

While technically Lamine Yamal pocketed the best young player award a day after he turned 17, he practically earned it when he was just 16 years old. The teen soccer sensation earned laurels for his country, Spain, by clinching the 2024 European Championship. Yamal assisted his team to triumph in the event’s summit clash, registering a 2-1 win over England.

With this, he became the youngest player to appear and score a goal in the Championship. Subsequently, he was later decorated with the award merely a day after his birthday, prompting him to address his conquest. “This is the best (birthday) gift I could have asked for. It’s a dream come true.”

Tsitsipas next adventure will be speculated at the upcoming 2024 Paris Olympics. Although Badosa will skip the event, the Greek will eye to pocket his maiden gold medal at the Games. The multi-sport event is scheduled for Friday, July 26, and Greece will have a keen eye for Tsitsipas.