Stefanos Tsitsipas' love affair with WTA star Paula Badosa has been a major storyline away from the tennis courts this season.
However, in a recent press conference, before he kicks off his Canadian Open campaign, Tstistipas admits he defeated his girlfriend in an unofficial match at Indian Wells during an exhibition. The Greek star then pleaded with the journalists not to spill the beans about it, as it would motivate Badosa to become competitive during their next match.
Tsitsipas ended his title drought at last week's Los Cabos Open. He defeated Australia's Alex de Minaur to win his first ATP title of the season, dropping just one set all week. Tsitsipas moved up a spot into fourth place in the ATP rankings.
And after the match, Tsitsipas admitted he is looking to eclipse Badosa's best ranking on Tour - the number two ranking that she attained last year before injuries caused her downfall. But Tsitsipas believes their bond has been so strong that he wants the feelgood relationship to transmit in results this season.
"Well, unofficially, I'm undefeated in an exhibition match in Indian Wells. So technically, it's 1-0 for me. Don't promote it too much. I don't want this to reach her too much because she will get very competitive, which is not the best thing to do right now, especially under her own circumstances that she has to deal with."
"I bring the best out of my tennis with her when I practice. I had the chance to practice with her recently, and I really enjoy practicing with her. We have great hits. And I honestly don't even mind if she beats me. I want her to beat me. That means she's getting better, and I want her to have an incredible career and reach World No. 1."
Tsitsipas went on to say it would be a dream if both of them would get to number one at some point. While it seems rather fanciful, he explains, it is what makes both of them and the desire to improve burn more than ever.
"So I really hope for this to keep on growing the way it keeps on growing monthly and for us to keep building memories on and off court and aim for big - sometimes people might think unachievable goals, but we are world dreamers, and that's what makes us us."
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