What's Happening?
Stefanos Tsitsipas expressed frustration over his opponent Daniel Altmaier's use of underarm serves during their match at the US Open. Tsitsipas was defeated in a five-set match, with scores of 7-6(5), 1-6, 4-6, 6-3, 7-5, marking his exit from the tournament in the second round. The match was notable for Altmaier's strategic use of the underarm serve, a legal but unconventional tactic, which Tsitsipas criticized during their post-match handshake. This loss means Tsitsipas will not advance to the third round of a grand slam for the first time since 2017.
Why It's Important?
The incident highlights the ongoing debate in tennis regarding the use of underarm serves, which some players view as unsportsmanlike. Tsitsipas's reaction underscores the tension between traditional and innovative strategies in the sport. His early exit from the US Open could impact his ranking and season performance, as he has not won consecutive matches since April. The match also reflects Tsitsipas's recent struggles, despite changes in his coaching team, including the return of his father as coach.
What's Next?
Tsitsipas will need to reassess his strategies and performance as he prepares for future tournaments. His coaching team may focus on addressing the decline in his game to regain his competitive edge. Altmaier's victory could boost his confidence and ranking, encouraging him to continue using unconventional tactics. The broader tennis community may engage in discussions about the ethics and effectiveness of underarm serves, potentially influencing future matches and player strategies.
