The match was helpful for my whole career – Stefanos Tsitsipas on his 2021 French Open final defeat to Novak Djokovic

Stefanos Tsitsipas has admitted that the 2021 French Open final defeat to Novak Djokovic was helpful for his whole career. The Greek made it to his first slam final at the Roland Garros 2021 but he could not cross the final hurdle against the Serbian as he lost 7-6(6), 6-2, 3-6, 2-6, 4-6.

The youngster took a 2-0 lead against the former World No.1 but could not capitalize as the veteran made a resounding comeback into the match. 

It is never easy to go past the likes of Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal in the Grand Slam final and Tsitsipas learned the same with this heartbreaking loss.

Tsitsipas said in an interview with Red Bull, “My defeat against Novak in Paris definitely showed me what I still have to learn to get better. The match was helpful for my whole career. It also showed me not to be too stubborn and uptight in a grand final next time.”

The 24-year-old from Athens added that he is proud to represent his country and he would look to continue the good show.

“Greece is my home. I have my roots there and I have the culture of the country in my blood. Greece is also a kind of shell for me. Maybe it also protects me. I’m definitely happiest when I’m there,” Stefanos Tsitsipas stated.

Tsitsipas added that he wants to deliver for Greece and give something to his country.

“I also want to help my country. To give something back to it, from the love of the people I feel. I want to give hope, especially to young people. It should become an even better place to live. I want to help the country get the respect it deserves,” he said.

The youngster also feels it is imperative to find the right balance in personal and professional life as an athlete.

“We professionals live in a bubble, but the things I do for myself away from tennis – including meeting people I trust unconditionally – make me feel good about reality. That’s important for me. This also sharpens your consciousness. And yes, maybe that really makes me a better player,” he added.

Tsitsipas lost to Holger Rune in straight sets in the final of the Stockholm Open.