Stefanos Tsitsipas has explained his decision to remove his father, Apostolos Tsitsipas, from his coaching team, saying he has reached a stage in his career where he wants greater control over his decisions.
Apostolos coached Tsitsipas for most of his professional career, helping him rise to world No. 3, win the 2019 ATP Finals and reach two Grand Slam finals.
However, their professional relationship has gone through several changes. Tsitsipas first ended the partnership in August 2024 before bringing his father back into the team in July 2025.
The second stint lasted less than a year. Ahead of Wimbledon this season, Tsitsipas appointed Thomas Perrin as his day-to-day coach, with Patrick Mouratoglou also becoming involved with the team.
Tsitsipas wants greater independence
Speaking to Kate Mackz, Tsitsipas said working with a parent created a complicated dynamic as his career developed.
He acknowledged the sacrifices his father made to support his tennis career but explained that he now wants to make more of his own decisions.
“I want to do it my way. I feel like I’m an adult now,” Tsitsipas said.
He added that the decision had been discussed with his father and that their relationship remains important to him.
Tsitsipas had previously made a similar point at the Cincinnati Open, saying that at 28, he felt it was the right time to take greater ownership of his career.
New coaching setup produces early results
The change in coaching has already delivered a major result, with Tsitsipas winning the Swiss Open in Gstaad in July to end a 16-month wait for an ATP title.
His form became inconsistent afterward, with early exits in Washington, Montreal, Cincinnati and Winston-Salem.
He then reached the fourth round of the US Open for the first time after defeating Arthur Fils, Lloyd Harris and Jiri Lehecka. Ben Shelton ended his run with a 6-2, 6-3, 6-4 victory.
During the US Open, Tsitsipas said his new coaching team had helped him establish clearer boundaries around his tennis.
The Greek is currently ranked No. 44 and is attempting to climb back towards the top of the ATP rankings.
At the Japan Open, Tsitsipas came through qualifying and defeated Yoshihito Nishioka and Rinky Hijikata before beating Tomas Martin Etcheverry 4-6, 6-3, 6-4 in the opening round.
He then faced world No. 18 Valentin Vacherot, who defeated Tsitsipas in Tokyo.
Tsitsipas’ latest coaching change marks a new phase of his career, with the former world No. 3 seeking greater independence while maintaining his close relationship with his father.