In a blunt assessment that has reverberated through the tennis world, Stefanos Tsitsipas’ new coach, Goran Ivanisevic, has sent a clear, albeit controversial, message to the Greek star regarding his current form and preparation. Ivanisevic publicly criticized Tsitsipas’ physical and mental state, particularly after his first-round retirement from Wimbledon 2025. The highly public nature of these comments has drawn significant attention, with Tsitsipas himself responding cryptically on social media.
Ivanisevic’s Scathing Critique of Tsitsipas’ Preparedness
Days after Tsitsipas was forced to retire from his Wimbledon opener due to a back injury, Goran Ivanisevic, who recently joined his coaching team, did not mince words about his new client. Speaking to local media, Ivanisevic stated that Tsitsipas had “a million problems” to resolve to return to the top of men’s tennis. He went further, asserting, “I have never seen a more unprepared player in my life!” The former Wimbledon champion even controversially claimed he was in “thrice better shape” mentally and physically despite having retired decades ago and suffering from a bad knee.
Ivanisevic’s criticism focused on Tsitsipas’ perceived lack of effort and preparation, despite the Greek’s expressed desire to improve. “He wants, but he doesn’t do anything. All ‘I want, I want’, but I don’t see that progress,” Ivanisevic remarked. He emphasized that there is “no magic wand” or “magic trick” to success, only hard work.
The Impact of Public Criticism
The public nature of Ivanisevic’s remarks has sparked debate within the tennis community. Patrick Mouratoglou, a prominent coach who previously worked with a young Tsitsipas, reacted strongly, calling Ivanisevic’s public criticism inappropriate, especially so early in their coaching relationship. Mouratoglou argued that such grievances should be handled privately to build trust, rather than “throwing them to the wolves” publicly.
Tsitsipas’ Cryptic Response to Mounting Pressure
Following Ivanisevic’s harsh assessment and amidst reports of personal turmoil, including a rumored breakup with Paula Badosa, Tsitsipas took to social media with a cryptic post. He shared the message: “You want to destroy a man? Laugh at his purpose. Question his mission.” This post was widely interpreted as a direct response to the mounting pressures and public criticism he is facing.
Ivanisevic, for his part, acknowledged that his comments “hit him a little bit because every tennis player, an athlete, when their ego gets a little worked up, they don’t like that criticism.” However, he affirmed that he stands by his words, viewing them as necessary truths.
Stefanos Tsitsipas’ Recent Struggles
Tsitsipas, who reached a career-high ranking of World No. 3 in 2023, has experienced a significant slump in form. He has dropped seven of his last eleven matches on the ATP Tour and suffered a back injury that forced his Wimbledon retirement. Tsitsipas himself has openly discussed his struggles, admitting to “battling many wars” and confronting the “most difficult situation” of his career, feeling “without answers” despite efforts in fitness and physiotherapy. His inability to qualify for the ATP Finals in 2024, despite five consecutive appearances prior, was described by him as a “humbling experience.”
The clear message from coach Goran Ivanisevic highlights the significant challenges facing Stefanos Tsitsipas as he attempts to regain his footing in professional tennis. The path forward, according to Ivanisevic, requires a fundamental shift in approach and a relentless commitment to physical and mental readiness.
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