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'He can raise his level further,' Stefanos Tsitsipas shares his assessment of Rafael Nadal’s level after practicing with him in Rome

Originally posted on FirstSportz | By Ritesh Pathak | Last updated 5/9/24

Greek tennis star Stefanos Tsitsipas who found his mojo back by winning a title at Monte Carlo Masters also got a chance to practice with Rafael Nadal ahead of the Rome Masters. Now, Tsitsipas has shared his assessment of the Spaniard’s current level. He has claimed that Nadal is in excellent shape and can elevate his level further.

As the 22-time Grand Slam champion is eyeing to play at the French Open, his best Grand Slam tournament in terms of titles won, for one last time, there are discussions about his fitness level. Although Nadal is coming through well lately, there are still concerns about his level for Grand Slam tournaments.

The Spaniard has himself not yet confirmed that he will play at the 2024 Roland Garros. Amid these speculations, Tsitsipas has shared what he felt while playing against Nadal. The Greek star said that the ‘King of Clay’ has still got it.

I think he is still in excellent shape and I continue to believe that he can raise his level further in matches. Playing with him is always a pleasure, on clay he is the best ever and pushes me to the limit. In the game? Beating him is nice, but even when he "kicks" you it's good because it shows you that there is still work to be done. Stefanos Tsitsipas said about Rafael Nadal. (H/T: Corriero dello Sport)

Stefanos Tsitsipas still dreams to win a Grand Slam title

Stefanos Tsitsipas talked about his ambitions as well. The Greek ace said that he was happy to be back in the Top 10 and now wants to get back in the Top 5. Tsitsipas also talked about making the most of his career because he has got only one.

The 26-year-old recalled his recent win in Monte Carlo and said that it was an emotional moment for him. Tsitsipas admitted that being in the top 10 feels different and he felt it after barging in again. The aim is to take the performance a few notches higher now.

If you saw how emotional I was in Monte Carlo you can understand how much it meant to me. Coming out of the Top 10 was strange. First, you feel like the CEO of a company and suddenly you're an employee again. The Top 10 is an exclusive club and you understand the value when you're no longer there. It's true that it's just a number, but for us tennis players it means a lot. I hope to do even more and get back into the top 5. I only have one career and I want to make the most of it. Stefanos Tsitsipas said.

Notably, after a shaky start to the 2024 season, Tsitsipas seems to have gained some momentum on clay. The Greek ace reached two back-to-back finals and is now eyeing a title in Rome as well. Tsitsipas also has his eyes set on the French Open.

This article first appeared on FirstSportz and was syndicated with permission.

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