“Holding My Nerves”: Stefanos Tsitsipas on His Epic Victory Over Rafael Nadal at Australian Open 2021

World No.6 Stefanos Tsitsipas had a resounding comeback win over World No.2, Rafael Nadal, to advance into the semifinals of the Australian Open 2021. Tsitsipas battled his mental demons to come from two sets down and win the match.

In his post-match interview, Tsitsipas spoke about his mood swings during the match or lack thereof. “Well yeah, it was something that I focused a lot today.

“Stay calm on the court and holding my nerves is very important elements and have been failing to do so until my matches.”

Stefanos Tsitsipas thanked his father for the mental toughness

Furthermore, Tsitsipas credited his father for helping him with his mood swings. His mood was consistent throughout the match and he was able to lift himself up when he was a little nervous at the start. In the 3rd set, he played freely and forged a comeback.

“I would also give a big part of my victory to dad, being able to be consistent with my mood and just stay calm in the crucial type moments that helped a lot.”

It is no surprise that an emotional Tsitsipas went to his father, Apostolos Tsitsipas, after his victory.

Moreover, speaking on his mood, he said that he was keeping to himself. Tsitsipas was calmer than ever. Even after his comeback victory, Tsitsipas was subtle with his celebrations. However, those emotions found their way to the surface during the post-match interview.

“My mood was very consistent I’ve been working on trying to just keep everything to myself. And it’s also something that I’m really, really happy with the court, it’s, it’s perfect.”

Tsitsipas will next play Daniil Medvedev in the semifinals. The Greek plays his second semifinal at the Australian Open in 3 years. And his clash with Medvedev will certainly be a high octane affair.

What is more interesting about Tsitsipas’ win over Nadal is his second victory over a Top-10 player in the Grand Slams. The first one was Roger Federer at Aussie Open 2019.

READ MORE- THRILLING: Stefanos Tsitsipas Incredibly Battles Past to Upset Rafael Nadal at Australian Open 2021