Wawrinka Calls Out Tsitsipas Over Schedule Criticism

Wawrinka Calls Out Tsitsipas Over Schedule Criticism

Stan Wawrinka has taken to social media to call out Stefanos Tsitsipas’ recent criticism of the ATP’s schedule, reminding the Greek star of his previous support for the “OneVision” plan.

Tsitsipas has been a vocal critic of the ATP’s decision to extend five of its most prestigious tournaments to two weeks, arguing that it puts too much strain on players’ bodies and reduces recovery time. However, Wawrinka has unearthed a video from two years ago in which Tsitsipas enthusiastically endorsed the OneVision plan, saying it would “find solutions for a better future.”

Wawrinka’s not-so-subtle dig was met with amusement by other tennis personalities, including Lucas Pouille and Mark Petchey. It also marks the second time in recent weeks that Wawrinka has used social media to challenge the views of younger players, having previously taken aim at Jannik Sinner for saying he “doesn’t play for money.”

Tsitsipas’ criticism of the ATP schedule has been echoed by other top players, including Carlos Alcaraz, Alexander Zverev, and Daniil Medvedev’s coach Gilles Cervara. They argue that the extended tournaments are unnecessary and could lead to more injuries.

However, the ATP has defended its decision, saying that the changes are necessary to improve the quality of the tournaments and provide more opportunities for players to earn prize money. The ATP also points out that the extended tournaments will include more rest days for players.

The debate over the ATP schedule is likely to continue, with players on both sides of the issue. However, Wawrinka’s intervention has added a touch of humor to the discussion, reminding everyone that even the most outspoken critics can change their minds.

Roland Garros Underdogs: Tsitsipas, Ruud, Zverev, and Dimitrov to Watch

Roland Garros Underdogs: Tsitsipas, Ruud, Zverev, and Dimitrov to Watch

With the prestigious Roland Garros tournament approaching, tennis enthusiasts are eagerly anticipating the potential victors. While Carlos Alcaraz, Novak Djokovic, and Jannik Sinner are the current betting favorites, it’s prudent to consider players who excel on clay courts. Here are four underdogs to watch out for:

Stefanos Tsitsipas (12-1):

Tsitsipas’ recent triumph at the Monte Carlo Masters, where he defeated formidable opponents like Alexander Zverev and Casper Ruud, has reignited his confidence. His exceptional serve and devastating forehand make him a formidable threat on clay. Despite his occasional backhand struggles, the slower surface mitigates this weakness. Tsitsipas’ previous Roland Garros final appearance in 2021 and his consistent performances on clay suggest he’s capable of another deep run.

Casper Ruud (12-1):

Ruud may not possess the raw power to overcome the elite players at their peak, but his unwavering consistency and relentless baseline strokes make him a formidable opponent on clay. The Norwegian’s two consecutive Roland Garros runner-up finishes demonstrate his ability to navigate the tournament’s challenges. Expect another extended run from Ruud, providing an opportunity for hedging and potential winnings.

Alexander Zverev (12-1):

Despite a lackluster clay-court season, Zverev remains a dangerous contender at Roland Garros. His world-class serve, backhand, and baseline grinding ability make him a formidable opponent. While his forehand consistency can be a concern, the slow clay surface allows him to compensate by taking his time and dictating the pace. Zverev’s three consecutive Roland Garros semifinals suggest he’s capable of reaching the latter stages once again.

Grigor Dimitrov (125-1):

Dimitrov’s career record at Roland Garros may not be impressive, but his recent Top 10 status and consistent performances in major tournaments make him an intriguing underdog. His exceptional slice and high-level serving can trouble opponents on clay. While his odds are long, Dimitrov’s potential for a deep run should not be underestimated.

One-Handed Backhands Return to ATP Top 10 with Tsitsipas and Dimitrov

One-Handed Backhands Return to ATP Top 10 with Tsitsipas and Dimitrov

The ATP rankings have witnessed a resurgence of one-handed backhands in the Top 10, with Stefanos Tsitsipas and Grigor Dimitrov leading the charge. Tsitsipas’ victory at the Monte Carlo Masters propelled him back into the elite, joining Dimitrov, who had ended a six-week drought of one-handed backhands in the Top 10 after his Miami Open final appearance.

This marks the first time since October 2021 that two players with one-handed backhands have graced the Top 10. Tsitsipas, who had been the lone representative since Dominic Thiem’s departure in 2021, now finds himself at his highest ranking since January 2023.

Another notable move in the Top 10 is Casper Ruud’s ascent to No. 6, his highest ranking in over seven months. The Norwegian’s impressive run in Monte Carlo, including a victory over Novak Djokovic, has earned him a significant boost.

Ugo Humbert and Ben Shelton have also made strides, with Humbert reaching a career-high of No. 13 and Shelton becoming the new American men’s No. 1. Meanwhile, Sumit Nagal has made history as the first Indian player to win a Masters 1000 match on clay, propelling him to a career-high of No. 80.

On the WTA side, there were no major changes in the rankings due to the absence of events last week. However, 21-year-old Jessica Bouzas Maneiro made her Top 100 debut after reaching the final of an ITF Circuit event in Spain.

Monte Carlo Semifinals: Tsitsipas and Ruud Upset Sinner and Djokovic

Monte Carlo Semifinals: Tsitsipas and Ruud Upset Sinner and Djokovic

Monte Carlo’s semifinal day was a spectacle of tennis brilliance, with the world’s top two players, Jannik Sinner and Novak Djokovic, taking center stage. Despite the dazzling sunlight, the matches showcased the athleticism and entertainment value of modern clay-court tennis.

Sinner and Stefanos Tsitsipas engaged in a thrilling three-set battle, with Sinner initially dominating before succumbing to leg cramps. Tsitsipas, rejuvenated by his performance, reached his first final of 2024.

In the second semifinal, Djokovic faced Casper Ruud, who claimed his first set against the Serbian legend. Djokovic’s resilience shone through as he fought back to win the second set, but Ruud’s determination proved too strong, securing his first victory over a member of the Big 3.

While the anticipated Djokovic-Sinner final did not materialize, both players gained valuable experience on clay. Sinner’s cramps and Djokovic’s physical struggles highlighted the demanding nature of the surface.

The Sunday final will feature Tsitsipas and Ruud, two players who have challenged for the Roland Garros title. Ruud’s recent form and head-to-head advantage give him an edge, but Tsitsipas’s experience in Monte Carlo could prove decisive.

The victories of Ruud and Tsitsipas have injected unpredictability into the clay season, expanding the pool of potential contenders for the French Open.

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