Stefanos Tsitsipas pulled off the most impressive victory of his career so far, something that shocked many of those watching, as he defeated Rafael Nadal in five sets. However, if you were Tsitsipas, you would feel more relieved than anything, after being on the other side of two highly intense matches in the past.

Last season, Tsitsipas wasted six match points and lost in five sets to Borna Coric at the US Open. Then, at the French Open 2020, he almost pulled off a comeback from two sets down in the semi-final against Novak Djokovic, only to lose in the fifth set.

On Wednesday, Tsitsipas made sure the third time was the charm, holding his nerve against Nadal, after losing the first two sets 3-6, 2-6. He was quite impressed with himself, to say the least, and deservingly so.

“The way I fought against such a top, respected player like Rafa was something extra. Something I’ve never felt before,” Tsitsipas said in his post-match interaction.

Stefanos Tsitsipas talks about the ‘epic moment’ after the match

Moments after firing a backhand down the line to seal the deal on his third match-point, Tsitsipas went towards his team who were seated in the players’ box.

He shared a warm embrace with his father/coach, Apostolos Tsitsipas, and others, including star coach Patrick Mouratoglou. Stefanos really cherished that moment, which he called ‘epic’.

“To be able to just walk up to my team and hug them and share that little moment of appreciation and solidarity, it was epic. It was everything I ever dreamed of. And I am glad where I am today,” Tsitsispas expressed further.

“Plenty more to do” for the Greek star

Tsitsipas is in a very positive mindset currently. At the same time, he recognizes the job is not over yet. “There’s obviously light ahead at the end of the tunnel. And there’s plenty more to do,” he concluded on the same.

Defeating Nadal after losing the first two sets in a Grand Slam is considered by many as one of the biggest challenges in sport. Tsitsipas became just the second man to achieve the feat.

Looking at the bigger picture, the Greek star will be well aware of the challenges ahead. Winning the title is the main aim and Tsitsipas faces in-form Daniil Medvedev next.

That match promises to be another thrilling battle. There is a lot on the line for both the rising stars of tennis.

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