Stefanos Tsitsipas has shared insights into his challenging year marked by a back injury and its mental toll in an interview ahead of Indian Wells 2026. The Greek player credits a specialist for his recovery and reaffirms his belief in winning a major title. He also highlights other players capable of Grand Slam success beyond the top young stars.
In a candid interview with former tennis player Anna Chakvetadze for the Russian media outlet First & Red, conducted just before the Indian Wells 2026 tournament, Stefanos Tsitsipas opened up about the most difficult year of his career. The Greek athlete, known for his introspective comments, detailed how a persistent back injury disrupted his season and affected his mental state. "When your body is not well, your confidence crumbles," Tsitsipas said. He explained that the physical limitations led to emotional strain: "Not being able to have a healthy body ultimately leads to an unhealthy mind."
The injury reached a low point after his elimination at the US Open, where the pain prompted deep self-doubt. "I asked myself, ‘What am I doing here? What do I do with my career?’" Tsitsipas recalled, noting exhaustion from competing while not at full strength. Despite this, he continued training daily and returned early for Davis Cup commitments, prioritizing the team: "I thought more about the team than about myself." His hyperactive nature made rest challenging: "I am a very hyperactive person, I don't like sitting still doing nothing."
Recovery proved pivotal through consultations with Dr. Hans-Wilhelm Müller-Wohlfahrt, a renowned sports medicine expert. "I have only heard good things about him," Tsitsipas stated. The treatment yielded positive results: "I am completely fine and feel no discomfort. I owe him a lot." This physical improvement restored his confidence, allowing him to win matches and regain his form.
Looking ahead, Tsitsipas dismissed the idea that only Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner can dominate Grand Slams. He pointed to Alexander Zverev, who has been "very close several times," Andrey Rublev as "one of the toughest rivals when he is in form," and Daniil Medvedev for his "ability not to give up." Tsitsipas underscored his own resolve: "If I didn't believe I could win a Grand Slam, I would have already stopped playing." Off the court, he seeks balance, sharing a family nickname "Stepkin" from his mother and choosing an unconventional preseason trip to Namibia for personal growth.