Philippoussis Rejoins Tsitsipas' Coaching Team Just Two Months After Parting Ways

| by Nurein Ahmed

World number five Stefanos Tsitsipas has rehired the services of former ATP world number eight Mark Philippoussis, just two months after going their separate ways.

Their first stint began officially at last year's US Open. Tsitsipas' father, Apostolos, who has worked as his primary coach throughout his career, was a key influence in onboarding Philippoussis last summer. Tsitsipas reserved the decision and judgment to his father at the time but praised Philippoussis as the ideal fit in his coaching setup.

The pair enjoyed a healthy relationship, although they never won anything together. Tsitsipas is in the midst of his longest trophy drought since 2018. But Tsitsipas has posted some solid results across all surfaces. He reached his second Grand Slam final at this year's Australian Open and also made the second week of Wimbledon for the second time in his career.

But it appears Tsitsipas' decision to split from Philippoussis was fuelled by his desire to retain one voice while touring tournaments. 'Less is more', he was quoted saying during the French Open when he clarified his reasons for axing the former Wimbledon finalist.

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But according to Greek publication SDNA, Tsitsipas has rehired Philippoussis under new terms which will last until the end of the season. The former Australian player will work together with Apostolos again, but they won't fly together as a team on Tour, aside from Grand Slams.

It is reported Apostolos and Philippoussis will share the tournaments in which they will accompany Tsitsipas. The 46-year-old will join Tsitsipas in tournaments in Los Cabos, Toronto, and Cincinnati. Apostolos, therefore, will be with his son in New York for the US Open, where Philippoussis will also be in attendance.

Philippoussis briefly coached Maria Sakkari after leaving Tsitsipas' team in late May. Sakkari hoped their partnership would last beyond the grass swing, but it now appears the trial period will not be extended and the Greek WTA star will continue to work with her principal coach Tom Hill.

2023 Los Cabos Open ATP Draw With Tsitsipas, Norrie, De Minaur & more
2023 Los Cabos Open ATP Draw With Tsitsipas, Norrie, De Minaur & more

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