Tsitsipas out, but just happy to be playing

Stefanos Tsitsipas fell to young American Jenson Brooksby at Indian Wells on Monday night, going down 1-6, 6-3, 6-2, saying he was just happy to be competing after struggling throughout most of 2021 with an elbow injury.

The pain was so bad Tsitsipas considered quitting the game, but after surgery he has believes he can recapture lost form.

“Honestly, I’m not very frustrated,” Tsitsipas said after the loss. “My arm is good. I’m happy I’m on the court playing. I’m happy I’m competing.

“I’m motivated. I want to achieve things this year. I’ll see where I can bring that, where I can reach.

“I really hope I can do well in big tournaments. But of course with the things that I’ve had before, I’m much more appreciative. I don’t see any negative sides to anything.”

Against Brooksby the Greek quickly wrapped up the first set but then saw his form dip as his opponent took the second and then the third to win the tie.

“The fact that I’m playing on court, it brings me the biggest happiness and joy for a very long time, having suffered with chronic elbow problems,” Tsitsipas added.

Peter Rowe

Recent Posts

Tenth time lucky as Li knocks out Sabalenka

American outsider Ann Li produced the upset of her life on Wednesday, taking 10 match points…

2 days ago

Zverev to take over as world No. 1

Alexander Zverev will claim world year-end No. 1 honours for the first time on the…

3 days ago

Grumpy Mac lashes out at player sked complaints

John McEnroe has used a trip to Spain to come down hard on modern player…

6 days ago

Alcaraz back for another 1-Point Slam appearance

Carlos Alcaraz will headline the field as the Australian Open stages its 1-Point Slam for…

1 week ago

Djoko to skip Shanghai after Beijing title miracle

Novak Djokovic is wisely choosing not to tempt fate, with the China Open winner withdrawing…

1 week ago

Djokovic backs into 7th Beijing title as injured de Minaur quits

Novak Djokovic retained his magic touch at the China Open, winning his seventh title without…

1 week ago