"Like a unicorn on a skateboard" - Tsitsipas Explains Comments About US Clay Courts
ATP
Stefanos Tsitsipas has clarified a controversial on-camera message he wrote about the camera lens during the Monte Carlo Masters this week.
Players are encouraged to write a message on the camera lens after winning at the Monte Carlo Masters - as part of the competition's tradition. Following his round of 16 win over Nicolas Jarry on Thursday, it was Tsitsipas' turn to share a message with spectators.
However, rather than keeping things simple, the Greek world number three caused confusion among viewers. The 24-year-old also sparked controversy when he scribed a message about the quality of clay courts in the US.
"Clay court in the US is like a unicorn on a skateboard."
But, Tsitsipas later had the opportunity to explain the context behind his message during a post-match interview with the Tennis Channel. The number ATP's third-ranked player said that clay was linked more with European tennis due to the commonality of this surface in Europe.
"I think it's quite clear. I don't have to further explain what's going on. It's a way of life, it's a lifestyle. You have it at old country clubs. It's such a traditional surface in Europe."
Tsitsipas also took the chance to explain that more red clay court competitions in the US would be welcomed by players. Although, he feels the nation first needs more clay surfaces across the country.
"I just wish we would see more claycourts in the US, I know it's not traditional there. What is it? Grey? Some calls it grey, some green. You see that's also another controversial thing over there. I see grey, some other people see green. But I'd love to see a tournament in the US on the red clay. Absolutely."
