Among the three Grand Slam runner-ups that Novak Djokovic has faced in the major finals this year, Stefanos Tsitsipas came the closest to winning it at the French Open 2021. So what stopped him from getting his hands on his maiden Grand Slam trophy?

Currently, the Greek World No. 4 is contesting at the Hamburg Open in Germany. He went there after suffering an opening-round loss to Frances Tiafoe at the Wimbledon Championships 2021.

Before the German Open began, Tsitsipas interacted with reigning finalist Andrea Petkovic about his Roland-Garros loss. Moreover, he even revealed what lacked in him when compared to World No. 1 Novak Djokovic.

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Stefanos Tsitsipas opens up on his French Open 2021 final loss to Novak Djokovic.

During their conversation, the German professional Petkovic asked Tsitsipas about his loss in Paris, and the 22-year-old Greek professional named physical incompetency as the differentiator between him and Djokovic.

“I think, talking about that match, there were a lot of physical elements that I was weaker at than my opponent than Novak. And I think it was the main reason why I wasn’t able to withstand that match,” Tsitsipas said. “And play at the level I was playing.”

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Furthermore, the current Monte-Carlo champion stated that he would find a solution to win his first Grand Slam. He then spoke about what he did not show the camera after his French Open final loss.

“I was really close, for sure I was, and it was frustrating and sad at the end, although I didn’t really show it. At the locker room, it was a difficult moment to reflect. It was not easy, especially when you are that close,” Tsitsipas concluded.

As the top seed, Tsitsipas received a bye into the next round in Hamburg. In the pre-quarters, he would face either of the Germans, Maximilian Marterer or Dominik Koepfer.

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What is next for Tsitsipas in 2021?

Despite numerous withdrawals due to strict regulations, Tsitsipas will travel to Japan for Tokyo Olympics. Interestingly, he would also participate in the mixed doubles category with compatriot Maria Sakkari.

Conclusively, fans are excited to see the Greek God play for his country and try for glory there. Do you think Tsitsipas can get his hands on a medal at the upcoming Olympics?

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