Stefanos Tsitsipas produced one of the biggest surprises of the opening round at the US Open, fighting back from a set and a break down to defeat No. 10 seed Arthur Fils 4-6, 7-6(3), 6-1, 6-4.
Fils had beaten Tsitsipas in their previous five meetings and arrived in New York full of confidence after winning the Cincinnati Open. But Tsitsipas refused to surrender, turning the match around in front of an enthusiastic crowd and securing an impressive victory.
Asked how he felt after ending Fils’ winning streak against him, Tsitsipas was visibly emotional.
“I’m speechless. I don’t know what to say. It’s an amazing start to the tournament. Guys, you had my back the entire match. Thank you so much,” he said.
Tsitsipas was then asked what he told himself when he was down a set and a break, and facing a break point that could have put him two breaks behind.
“Let go of expectations,” he replied.
“I feel like we can get dragged with a lot of expectations. Carrying that heavy boat is not easy during a match, especially when the psychological game of a match like that is crucial.”
The Greek star said the key was remaining composed and continuing to trust his game.
“It’s important to stay well composed and keep building on your game. I owe everything to letting go, not having any expectations, and just being a warrior, a Greek fighter. All the above.”
The victory also raised the question of whether Tsitsipas believes he can return to the very top of men’s tennis.
“Why not?” he said.
“I’m taking it a day at a time. I don’t wanna be looking too far away. I prefer to stay grounded in the moment.”
Tsitsipas said the victory meant a great deal to him, particularly given the way he fought through adversity.
“A win like this today matters a lot to me. I’m very proud of myself. The way I fought and executed my game plan.”
He also credited his team for helping him through the difficult moments.
“Most of all I have an incredible team by my side that was just dragging me through the entire process. I can’t be more happy right now.”
After a difficult period, Tsitsipas delivered a performance that few expected, overcoming the No. 10 seed and Cincinnati champion to advance at Flushing Meadows.
For the Greek star, it was not simply a first round victory. It was a reminder of the fighter he believes he can still be.
