Stefanos Tsitsipas's US Open campaign erupted in controversy during a tense second-round encounter, as the Greek superstar unleashed a furious courtside tirade against his opponent's unconventional serving tactics.
The world number six became increasingly agitated as French teenager Luca Van Assche repeatedly deployed underarm serves during their match on Court 17. Tsitsipas, known for his passionate on-court demeanour, visibly struggled to contain his frustration at what he perceived as gamesmanship.
'A Complete Lack of Respect'
During a changeover, Tsitsipas could be heard venting his anger to the chair umpire, passionately arguing that the tactic showed "a complete lack of respect" for both him as an opponent and for the sport itself. "This is a joke," he protested. "He doesn't respect the game, he doesn't respect me, he doesn't respect the people who came to watch."
The 20-year-old Van Assche, currently ranked 74th in the world, appeared unfazed by the reaction, continuing to mix his service game throughout the contest. The underarm serve, while legal, remains a divisive tactic in professional tennis, often viewed as a clever way to disrupt rhythm or a disrespectful trick shot.
Tactical Tensions Boil Over
Observers noted that Tsitsipas's deep return position, often standing several metres behind the baseline to receive serve, may have prompted Van Assche's strategic choice. The underarm serve is typically employed to catch an opponent off-guard when they retreat too far.
Despite the psychological warfare, Tsitsipas ultimately prevailed in four sets (6-7(5), 6-4, 6-4, 6-3), booking his place in the third round. However, the post-match discussion focused less on the victory and more on the fiery exchange and the ongoing debate around the legitimacy of the underarm serve in modern tennis.
A History of Controversy
This incident is not the first time Tsitsipas has found himself at the centre of on-court controversy. His matches have frequently featured lengthy bathroom breaks and medical time-outs that opponents have criticised as strategic, making him a figure who often challenges tennis's unwritten codes of conduct.
The debate now shifts to whether Van Assche's move was a legitimate tactical ploy or a breach of tennis etiquette. As the US Open continues, all eyes will be on Tsitsipas to see how he handles similar challenges and whether this incident affects his focus in the tournament.
