Daniil Medvedev has expressed strong support for Stefanos Tsitsipas, predicting the Greek star will win a Grand Slam in the near future following Tsitsipas's decision to part ways with his father as coach. Medvedev made the comments after both players secured first-round victories at Wimbledon.
Medvedev's Bold Prediction
Speaking in his press conference after defeating Marin Cilic, Medvedev said: "I would not be surprised if at any moment - in two weeks, one year, or five years - he wins a Slam or reaches semi-finals." The Russian's endorsement comes as Tsitsipas prepares to face seven-time Wimbledon champion Novak Djokovic in the second round.
Tsitsipas's Coaching Change
Tsitsipas, 27, split with his father Apostolos Tsitsipas ahead of Wimbledon for the second time, having previously dismissed him in 2023 before later rehiring him. The world number 80 comfortably beat Hugo Gaston in the first round but has struggled for form, dropping outside the top 80 in the rankings.
Tsitsipas explained his decision: "It will take him some time to accept it, as it did the last time we split. Back then I left a small window open. Now I believe he has a great deal to offer others. But to me, I think he's already given everything he possibly could."
Father-Son Dynamic
Reflecting on their relationship, Tsitsipas added: "The older I get, the more difficult it is for me to maintain a stable relationship with my father, compared to when I was a little kid, 18, 19, 20 years old. I believe that my father needs other things, just as I need different things. I felt it in the daily energy of our collaboration."
He confirmed the split is permanent: "I feel we've reached a point where I'm looking for something completely different. I believe that we won't be working together again in the future. Now I want to start making my own decisions and deciding for myself."
New Coaching Team
Tsitsipas has confirmed he is now working with Thomas Perrin from Patrick Mouratoglou's academy. A surprise win over Djokovic on Centre Court would immediately validate his coaching change and potentially fulfill Medvedev's prediction.
