The Mutua Madrid Open has gotten off to a wonderful start and soon saw its first major upset of the season. The Greek pro Stefanos Tsitsipas was outplayed by his first-round opponent at the Madrid Open.
The Greek was up against Thiago Monteiro and had all the momentum coming to the match. With a good record on clay and two consecutive finals behind him, Tsitsipas was one of the favorites of Madrid as well. However, no one expected it to be an upset of the season.
Stefanos Tsitsipas and Thiago Monteiro (Via IMAGO)
The Brazilian produced the upset of the season by beating the in-form Tsitsipas in straight sets. He did not even give one chance for the Greek to make a comeback. Keeping the attack mode on, Monteiro finished the match 6-4, 6-4.
Tsitsipas, who was on a 10-1 streak before this, was stunned by the Brazilian’s consistency. He commended his opponent for maintaining consistency and a strong record of first serves. Tsitsipas also accepted his loss and continued to focus on the beauty of life. He admitted to not being 100% prepared, which eventually resulted in a loss.
I just focus on the beauties in life. Tennis is there. I play tennis every day. I feel grateful to have the opportunity to go out on the court and play. There will be a lot of days like this, I hope, in the coming 15 years into my career. It's not a great feeling, that's for sure, but I have to accept it and move on. Maybe I wasn't 100% prepared for this match and my opponent was. Brought the victory.Stefanos Tsitsipas said in the post-game interview
The Brazilian had an incredible 89% of the first service points. His leftie serve threw Tsitsipas out of rhythm and caused the first upset of the tournament.
Stefanos Tsitsipas was full of praises for Thiago Monteiro after their clash at the Madrid Open
In-form Stefanos Tsitsipas was knocked out of the tournament by the hands of Thiago Monteiro. The Brazilian, who had failed to clear the first round of the challengers, managed to register his fourth Top 10 win of his career.
The Brazilian was fantastic, beginning on an aggressive note. Even the Greek had to agree on the level of tennis played by their opponent.
I have had a very good rival on the other side of the net, He has made great shots and has punished me every time I have played short. I have not been able to have depth on the court. He has played very aggressive, very persistent, with a very high percentage of firsts.Stefanos Tsitsipas added
Not being extremely dejected by the loss, Tsitsipas now has a goal to achieve a certain number of points as the clay court season continues. He concluded with a strong statement of belief in his game and hopes of reaching his new goals.
