Stefanos Tsitsipas, the world No. 11, has endured a challenging period, losing three of his last four matches and parting ways with his father as his coach. His struggles have been particularly evident at the US Open, where he has never advanced beyond the third round.
Tsitsipas’s weakness on the backhand wing, where he employs a one-handed shot, has been exploited by opponents. The US Open’s fast courts provide limited time for him to set up his backhand, making him vulnerable to aggressive players like Thanasi Kokkinakis.
Furthermore, Tsitsipas’s forehand, typically a potent weapon, has been misfiring. His inability to punish opponents with this shot has further weakened his game. Additionally, his return game has been subpar, leaving him susceptible to early breaks.
In contrast, Kokkinakis has enjoyed a resurgence since May, winning 11 of his last 18 matches. He has defeated notable players such as Alexei Popyrin, Felix Auger-Aliassime, and Gael Monfils. Kokkinakis’s aggressive style, featuring powerful strokes and quick holds, poses a significant threat to Tsitsipas.
While Kokkinakis has faced physical issues this year, his absence from Cincinnati suggests he will be well-rested for the US Open. If healthy, he has the potential to push Tsitsipas to the limit and even secure an upset victory.
