Tennis has long been home to star-studded cross-border couples playing on the tour, from Frenchman Gael Monfils and the Ukrainian Elina Svitolina to Aussie Alex De Minaur and British Katie Boulter. However, none have quite stolen the spotlight like Stefanos Tsitsipas and Paula Badosa, or as they are fondly known, “Tsitsidosa.” Their chemistry is undeniable, both on and off the court, like “We are soulmates,” Tsitsipas once declared, giving fans a glimpse into the deep bond they share. And now, as both athletes prepare for their French Open campaigns, the beloved pair has opened up about the most intense moment in their relationship. Wondering what it was? 

The Greek-Spanish duo officially began dating in June 2023, though their love story began long before that. Tsitsipas revealed it was “love at first sight” when he first saw the Spaniard at the AO in 2020. He was completely mesmerized, while Badosa admitted her first impression of him was “very cute, attractive.” Their bond truly blossomed during the Italian Open in Rome that year, where they started talking more frequently. Since then, the couple has delighted fans by sharing sweet moments of their relationship on social media.

In a playful TikTok challenge, Paula Badosa once revealed that Stefanos Tsitsipas was the one who first said, “I love you,” and initiated their first kiss. Speaking about their bond, Tsitsipas even stated, “She has brought a lot of blessings into my life and I am proud that I can call her my girlfriend and my life partner.” And while joint interviews aren’t common for the duo, once they did open up, they recently shared the most charismatic moment of their relationship.

In their first joint interview, Tsitsipas shared that time away from the tour allows them to connect deeply and cherish moments, along with the Spaniard, with greater grace. “Maybe some trips we took away from the tour. When you leave the noise of sports and are just human with each other, everything takes on a different meaning. Our greatest moments are definitely when we are off tour,” he added. 

Later, the Greek ace also added, “Without pressure, expectations, and people. That’s where we have noticed that our relationship takes on another dimension, a more peaceful and human form with which we both feel that we are living the best version of ourselves.”

Well, to be honest, during their busy schedules, the tennis power couple knows how to make the most of their downtime. Take last year’s off-season example in November, for instance. It all began with Paula Badosa’s birthday celebration as she flew to Monaco with Stefanos Tsitsipas to ring in her 27th year. From there, they ventured into the mountains for a serene getaway that soon turned into an extended vacation. Their next stop? The breathtaking, snow-capped landscapes of Iceland. Badosa teased the new adventure on IG as well with a black chopper and the caption, “Off to another adventure!”

The couple’s journey included helicopter rides over snow-clad peaks and cozy moments captured on camera, like hugging in front of stunning mountain views. Amidst the picturesque escape, Tsitsipas also revealed his playful side as well, rapping along to a 2000s Greek pop song, “Όταν σε είχα πρωτοδεί,” meaning “When I first saw you.” 

Despite their recent challenges on the court—Badosa returning from chronic back issues and scoring a walkover win at the Internationaux de Strasbourg, and Stefanos Tsitsipas experiencing a dip in form since his triumph in Dubai—Badosa once shared that Tsitsipas was her guiding light during her toughest days.

“He brought me the happiness,” Paola Badosa opens up about how Stefanos Tsitsipas has helped her during tough days

From reaching a career-high ranking of 2nd seed in May 2022 to plummeting outside the top 100 by 2024, the Spaniard’s journey has been nothing short of challenging throughout. Her battle began with a serious back injury in June 2023 that forced her off the court for several months. However, during this trying period, Badosa found unexpected strength, not just in rehab or resilience, but in love.

In a heartfelt interview with Hola, the current 10th seed opened up about how Stefanos Tsitsipas entered her life during that difficult time. “I met Stef right after my injury. It was one of the hardest seasons for me because I have never spent so many months without playing tennis. And he brought me the happiness, support, and fresh air that I needed so much at that time. I felt very happy to have light in my life during such a dark time,” Badosa shared.

In addition, their romantic story will take center stage once again this year, as Badosa and Tsitsipas already boast one mixed doubles title together. The pair clinched victory at an exhibition event during the 2024 US Open, playfully dubbed the “best date night ever.” But now, they’re aiming to transform that undeniable on-court chemistry into a GS title at the same iconic venue.

Despite all the ups and downs, the Tsitsidosa love story continues to shine, anchored by affection, resilience, and shared dreams. And with the French Open around the corner, how far do you think the duo will go in the tournament?