Stefanos Tsitsipas has been chatting about his on-court relationship with his girlfriend Paulo Badosa ahead of the Australian Open.
The first Grand Slam of the season, which starts next week, is set to play host to a number of stars all vying to create history and earn immortality in the history books down under.
However, whilst the focus will always remain on the singles leg of the tournament, in the past attention has diverted to the doubles draw should there be a pairing worth watching.
The world number seven has been speaking to The Guardian about the likelihood of his inclusion in the mixed doubles event with the Spaniard, as well as his long-running feud with Nick Kygrios.
So, what has he had to say about the potential unification of their talents on the court, the likes of which have not often been seen? We look to delve into it…
What Stefanos Tsitsipas has said about Paula Badosa
As two titans of both the men’s and women’s game, their partnership would certainly catch the eye were they to join forces to tackle the first slam of the year.
After all, the two were touted to do so during the 2023 Wimbledon Championships, before injury once again curtailed those plans as the Spaniard withdrew.
However, at last in the World Tennis League, we got to see the two in action together, as they battled well to beat the mixed doubles team of Daniil Medvedev and Sofia Kenin.
Their post-match interview went viral for the jokes they shared together, and left fans wanting more.
Well, speaking to The Guardian, Tsitsipas only had bad news to deliver.
He noted: ‘It’s a difficult decision because I really want to play with her. But my main priority is singles and it’s important to economise my energy during these hopefully deep runs.
‘I am already committed to playing doubles with my brother [Petros]. So three events would be too demanding.’
Tsitsipas must focus on conquering the Australian Open singles
Whilst fans, and Tsitsipas himself, will want the two to share the court as much as possible, his singles career must surely take priority as the new season starts.
After all, the 25-year-old has showcased his immense talents in a number of key matches, and has come so close to claiming that elusive Grand Slam on a couple of occasions.
And whilst he does boast ten ATP Tour titles to his name, there is a feeling that more can be done with the talent he possesses.
Having been broken down due to a poor return of serve and an unconvincing backhand, early exits in both Wimbledon and the US Open last year will have left the Greek star frustrated.
Well, this marks a fine opportunity to right those wrongs, starting the year off in the perfect way by focusing on achieving a deep run in Melbourne yet again.
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