‘They treated him very badly’ – Stefanos Tsitsipas’ mother talks about her son’s traumatic childhood and how tennis helped him heal

On the pitch, Stephanos Tsitsipas can seem very passionate, even capricious in some cases. Recently at the US Open, the Greek player threw his racket furiously during a mixed doubles match with his girlfriend Paula Badosa. We also saw him openly criticize his father Apostolos’ coach after his departure in Montreal. But there is a story that explains why the player believes so strongly in the sport.

Tsitsipas has had a difficult season. Without any notable results, the Greek has struggled to get back to his best. On top of that, the 26-year-old’s family problems have taken their toll on him emotionally. Inflamed by his father Apostolos’ on-court antics, Tsitispas parted ways with him as coach. But amidst all this, his mother has revealed how tennis saved her son when he was being bullied at school.

Despite his occasionally fiery nature, Tsitsipas was quite shy growing up. Sitting on a Greek talk show, “To Proino” Tsitsipas’ mother, Julia Apostoli, revealed that in 2021 French Open finalist was targeted during his school years. She highlighted how the Greek star’s introverted personality and interest in sports led to some students bullying him.

“He was a very quiet child and very shy. He would miss classes because of sports, and the children he had in his class could not be called friends because they treated him very badly. There were two or three children in his class who beat him quite badly” revealed.

However, the 26-year-old persevered through his love of tennis and rose above the difficult circumstances. Julia said: It wasn’t easy for Stefanos, but he overcame it because he had tennis and a mind that allowed him to move forward. And that helped him a lot.”

With 11 ATP singles titles, including three Masters 1000 titles, Tsitispas has shown how far he has come since the traumatic days of bullying. The world number 12 has also reached two Grand Slam finals, although his form has deserted him this season and ultimately led to him ending his relationship with his father as his coach for a second time.

Tsitsipas made the announcement after a confrontation with his father during his first-round loss to Kei Nishikori at the National Bank Open in Montreal, Canada, on August 8. With the Greek leading 5-2 against Japanese Nishikori in the first set, Tsitsipas argued with his father and asked him to leave the court.

He then criticized his father for not being able to help him. He said, “For me, an ATP Master(s) 1000 match is an important match. I need and deserve a coach who listens to me and takes my concerns into account as a player. My father was not very smart or very good at handling situations like that, it’s not the first time he did it. I’m really disappointed with him.”

Shortly afterwards he went to X to announce that he was relieving his father of his coaching duties and wrote that “I prefer my father to remain in his role as a father and only a father.”

Tsitsipas first split with his father in 2023 and hired Australian Mark Philippoussis. However, he split with him two months later and resumed working with his father.

Despite his recent decision, his mother insisted the family would remain closely knit. She said:He is a professional and although he loves his father very much, he understands that he needs to find another coach.

Julia added further: “We had conflicts. And that’s why Stefanos made the decision to change the coach. We don’t see it as a tragedy. We are all together and we are a close family.”

While Tsitsipas can sometimes explode in anger and his off-court demeanor can seem reclusive, his mother’s comments explain why he is so passionate about tennis, and it may be more than just a sport for him.

In addition to her shocking revelation about Tsitsipas’ mistreatment at school, Julia also revealed the catalyst that saved the Greek star’s relationship with Paul Bados.

Stefanos Tsitsipas’ mother helped save her son’s relationship with Paula Badosa

Stefanos Tsitsipas and Paula Badosa, you’ve heard of this power couple. What’s new is not their brief breakup this season, an update that sent shockwaves through the tennis community. What is new, however, is the Greek star’s mother’s involvement in their relationship. While their recent family struggles might have you assuming the worst, surprisingly Julia Apostoli responsible for helping to rekindle them!

On the same show, Tsitsipas’ mother mentioned that she especially intervened when the duo had relationship problems. By admitting to siding with Badosa, Julia proved to be the link between the pair in reconciliation.Stefanos is happy, that’s the most important thing. If he’s happy, I’m happy too. It was a difficult time when they broke up, but now they’re in love. I was on Paola’s side, we talked and that’s why they found each other again.”

With such honest and sincere confessions, Tsitsipas’ mother will certainly gain popularity among the fans of “Tsitsidos” and perhaps also gain their goodwill. But what do you think about her revelations?