Tennis can be a real rollercoaster, right? Stefanos Tsitsipas knows that better than anyone this season. He came into 2025 with big dreams for the Australian Open, but then crashed out in the first round against Alex Michelsen. Ouch. But he bounced back pretty well at the Rotterdam Open, making it to the quarterfinals and reminding everyone what he’s capable of. Just when things were looking up, though, he hit another bump in the road in his latest tournament.

Tsitsipas’ Middle East swing took an unexpected turn in Doha, where the No. 11 seed fell to Hamad Medjedovic in a thrilling two-hour, 44-minute match. Fresh off the ATP Marseille final, Medjedovic continued his winning streak, overcoming Tsitsipas 7-6, 5-7, 7-6 in the first round. The victory was even more remarkable considering Medjedovic sustained a painful leg injury during the contest but still managed to limp through to secure the win. Some are calling it a “miracle victory” for the young Serb.

On the other hand, Tsitsipas’ performance raised eyebrows. As many expected him to clinch the match given Medjedovic’s obvious disadvantage. Olly Tennis took to X to share the dramatic moment of Tsitsipas’ loss with a caption that captured all the emotions: “😳😱 This was a CRAZY finish, Medjedovic could barely WALK (he hurt his hamstring) to the net, but beats Tsitsipas 7-6 in the third!”

It’s a mixed bag for Hamad; while he advances in the tournament, his injury raises concerns about potential withdrawal. Meanwhile, fans aren’t letting Tsitsipas off easy after this defeat.

Fans lay it thick on Stefanos Tsitsipas after losing the match

Beyond the immediate sting of defeat, some observers have raised concerns about Tsitsipas’ conduct, with one remarking, “Tsitsipas a very poor loser.” After the match, speculation arose about a cold handshake. This was despite cheers for Medjedovic, who won despite a leg injury.

A frustrated fan stated, “Stefanos really needs a change.” This reflects a belief that a shake-up is necessary. The defeat to Alex Michelsen at the 2025 Australian Open really set tongues wagging. The 2023 finalist fell to the 20-year-old American, 5-7, 6-3, 2-6, 4-6, in a 2-hour and 43-minute match. This was the first big upset of the tournament. “Somehow Tsitsipas keeps reaching new lows,” a netizen described the Greek’s recent loss on Doha’s soil.

Adding to the concern, another commenter urged, “Tsitsipas buddy, let’s take a hard look at things and how they are going. 🤣🤣🤣 C’mon man.” Despite showing promise in Rotterdam, Tsitsipas then lost to Italian qualifier Mattia Bellucci in two sets. These inconsistent results are casting doubt on his potential.

Another fan lamented Tsitsipas’ unfulfilled potential: “Tsitsipas is a lost cause. Sad because I really thought that after Federer, Tsitsipas would be the next great single handed backhand player, but it wasn’t to be.”

Roger Federer‘s forehand was celebrated for its fluid versatility, while Tsitsipas relies on a powerful forehand emphasizing topspin and early offense. Not to mention, the Greek had wins in 2019 against Federer at the Australian Open round of 16 and the ATP Finals. Moreover, he also clinched an outdoor clay victory in Rome that year. Which gave hope to many that he would be the Swiss maestro’s successor on the court.

However, he now faces a tough time coming to terms with his loss. He has much to consider before his next tournament. Can he overcome this label and showcase his talent again?