Stefanos Tsitsipas Opens Up About Unforgettable Night with Tennis Legends
In a candid revelation on the What’s The Call? podcast, Greek tennis sensation Stefanos Tsitsipas shared a deeply personal anecdote that highlights the human side of professional sports. The world No. 32 recounted a memorable evening during the Laver Cup week that marked a significant first in his life—his initial encounter with alcohol, courtesy of two of tennis's greatest icons.
A Gentle Nudge from Roger Federer
Tsitsipas described how Roger Federer played a pivotal role in this milestone moment. "I got drunk for the first time with Rafa and Roger at the Laver Cup. That was the very first time I ever drank alcohol in my life," he confessed. The young star admitted to being completely inexperienced, unsure of what to order, when Federer stepped in with encouragement. "Roger is like, 'Come on, you’ve got to have a drink,' and I am like, 'Ok, if Roger says I have got to have a drink, I have got to have a drink.'" This simple interaction broke the ice and led to a night of camaraderie.
Contrasting Personalities of Federer and Nadal
Tsitsipas offered insights into the off-court dynamics of the legendary duo. He characterized Rafael Nadal as "a bit of an introvert; he is not going to talk like Roger does." In contrast, he praised Federer's approachable nature, noting, "Roger is a very confident guy. He will come to you, talk to you, ask you silly questions. He is a kid, Roger is a kid, in a good way. I like Roger being this way." These observations shed light on how the veterans made him feel at ease, transforming rivals into teammates.
The 2019 Laver Cup: A Turning Point
The night in question occurred during the 2019 Laver Cup in Geneva, where Tsitsipas had the unique opportunity to play doubles with both Nadal and Federer. Although he lost both matches in three sets, Team Europe ultimately secured the trophy. Reflecting on the experience, Tsitsipas emphasized its impact on his perspective. "It brought me closer to my heroes. It brought me closer to their personalities and what they feel like in real life," he told the Laver Cup website. "I was able to admire them in a different way, on a different scale than I was before. And getting to meet them, getting to talk to them in a way that I do not usually do when I am on the regular tour. It brought a lot of emotions and a lot of great memories."
Current Season and Broader Reflections
Despite a challenging start to the 2026 season, with early exits in Adelaide, the Australian Open, and Rotterdam, Tsitsipas finds solace in moments like these. For him, tennis transcends mere competition; it's about forging connections and creating lasting memories. The Laver Cup episode serves as a reminder of why he cherishes the sport—not just for victories, but for the shared laughter and bonds formed with legends like Federer and Nadal.
As Tsitsipas navigates his career, stories like this underscore the importance of mentorship and camaraderie in professional athletics. They highlight how even small, personal experiences can shape an athlete's journey, offering fans a glimpse into the off-court lives of their sporting idols.
