Stefanos Tsitsipas won't be playing for Greece in the Davis Cup tie against Serbia, which is a significant problem for the country as they need him to qualify.
Earlier this year, the Davis Cup Qualifiers took place, with Serbia surprisingly losing to Slovakia. It meant they had to play in the World Group I if they hoped to fight for the Davis Cup Finals next year.
The draw was really brutal for Serbia, as they drew Greece, which was an intriguing matchup between two nations that aren't evenly matched unless certain players participate while others do not.
If Novak Djokovic didn't play for Serbia and Stefanos Tsitsipas played for Greece, then the teams would be more evenly balanced. However, if Djokovic decided to play, Serbia would have the upper hand regardless of who plays for Greece.
Many were uncertain whether Djokovic would play for Serbia after the disappointment at the US Open, but he surprised everyone by opting to play for his country. The 24-time major winner has always been forthcoming about his patriotism.
Playing for Serbia brings him immense joy, as evidenced by his recent gold medal win at the Paris Olympics. It was the crowning moment of his career and the way he emotionally celebrated it demonstrated just how important it was for him.
However, unfortunately for tennis fans, another match between Tsitsipas and Djokovic won't be played at the Aleksandar Nikolic Hall, where the tie will be held on September 14th and 15th.
Tsitsipas announced that he would not be playing for Greece in the Davis Cup, which is a massive loss for Greece. They are now left without any Top 500-ranked player ready to step in.
"Dear friends and supporters of the National Tennis Team. The voice of my heart advised me to strengthen the National Team once again. However, the voice of my body, in an imperative manner, forbids me to compete in the meeting with Serbia for the Davis Cup."
"It is with great regret that I announce my decision not to compete next week in Belgrade. I keep the moments we experienced last February in Ano Liosia. Then, drawing strength from the Greek fans who were in the stands, we defeated Romania and celebrated together a great success in World Group I of the Davis Cup."
Tsitsipas is by far the best player from Greece, with a few rising talents behind him, but none ranked in the Top 500 yet. As a result, none of them have experience standing up to Djokovic or players of a similar caliber.
Tsitsipas's withdrawal significantly decreased Greece's chances of advancing. He has always expressed great pride in representing Greece, often stating that playing for his country is the greatest honor.
This makes his decision all the more unexpected. He announced it in an official statement on social media, explaining in Greek that he was not ready to compete. He emphasized that both his body and mind need rest after a challenging few weeks on and off the court.
"The back injury I got from participating in the US Open requires me to follow a special rehabilitation program in order to get back on the court as soon as possible."
"I wish our national team good luck in the difficult meeting with Serbia. For my part, I will do my best so that in the next competitive match of our National Team, I will be able to compete again with the National Emblem on my chest."
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