Stefanos Tsitsipas skipped over his 2024 United Cup singles match just to play the mixed doubles, and he explained why after the match.
Tsitsipas was actually getting ready to play the singles match because event cameras caught him in the locker room working on getting ready. He didn't seem to be ready, though, so when he finally pulled out, nobody was really shocked by it.
He's dealt with a back injury dating back to last year, and it also affected him recently at the World Tennis League in Abu Dhabi. He was adamant that it's much better than before which might be true, but that doesn't mean it's 100%.
I'm much better than what I was a month ago. I wasn't 100% sure that I will have the chance to play the United Cup. It didn't really cross my mind when I was considering my comeback. I went through tough times at the end of the year. Things weren't looking very good.
That's very good, and he did play tennis in the end. He suited up for the doubles with Maria Sakkari, but it was a losing effort, which was unfortunate for the team. He looked fine and explained that he felt great in the match except when he felt something in his back.
That's not ideal but he's not too concerned with it and will most likely pull double duty tomorrow.
Today I was feeling great. There was just one moment during the match that I felt something. But I think I shouldn't be concerned about it too much. It's not a major issue that I'm facing. There are big chances I might do both.
Tsitsipas seems convinced of his words, but he may not be totally correct. This back injury will be something to monitor during this Australian Summer. It already impacted his offseason, so it seems unlikely we'll see another run to the final in Melbourne.
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