UNITED CUP

January 2, 2024

Petros Tsitsipas

Maria Sakkari

Stefanos Tsitsipas

Stefanos Sakellaridis

Team Greece

Press Conference

Team Chile - 2

Team Greece - 1

THE MODERATOR: We'll start with the captain. Petros, talk us through your thoughts on the tie today. Strong performance from Maria and Stefanos. The doubles was close today, as well.

CAPTAIN PETROS TSITSIPAS: So first and foremost, I would like to congratulate Maria for her excellent performance in the singles. It's definitely great to start the tie with such a clean and easy win, especially a two-set win. It gives a big importance on the rankings for the end of the group endings.

Then it was quite surprising to see Stefanos Jr. to step up and pull out such a great performance, as well. He really gave it all out there. He made it really difficult for Jarry. Jarry is a top player.

Especially as a fellow player, as a captain, to see him perform this way, it's pure pride. Yeah, just want to tell him congratulations from myself.

I mean, coming towards the mixed doubles, the last match, it can be a bit - how can I say - on both sides. I know that both of our opponents, they played the mixed doubles against Canada. They were feeling a bit more - how can I say - compatible.

They didn't know what to expect from the conditions and the match play. It was definitely a small disadvantage on that side. I still think it was a really good match. It was good level also from both teams, our team and their team. Then super tiebreak, it can good either way. A bit of luck, a bit of poor decisioning, and it can go south very easy. I think that's what happened.

But we're still very positive for our last tie. I know that mathematically we still have a chance to go through. We just have to end the day on a good note and come back tomorrow and give it our best.

THE MODERATOR: Maria, talk us through your thoughts on your singles match, first match of the year. What felt good for you out there today?

MARIA SAKKARI: Well, it was very solid for a first match of the season. Obviously when you play someone that you've never played before, they have nothing to lose playing against you, it's always tricky because you just don't know what to expect.

I think I did what I had to do. Not too much. Didn't overdo it. I think it was pretty solid, I would say, from my side.

I'm very happy to start the season with a singles win. Obviously I'm sad that the day didn't end up the way we wanted.

THE MODERATOR: Questions, please.

Q. Stefanos Jr., can you talk about how proud you were with the fight you put up today.

STEFANOS SAKELLARIDIS: Yes, obviously I'm very proud about the match. I wasn't expecting it to turn that way, especially in the beginning when I was 3-0 down in no time.

My team was guiding me through the match with some great information, great instructions. The energy from the crowd also help me starting performing better.

I'm very happy that I managed to bring up a close fight.

Q. To push a top-20 player as close as you did, does that make you think you might be closer to be able to compete on the main ATP Tour this year?

STEFANOS SAKELLARIDIS: I mean, there is still so much work to be done from my side. I need to develop my game, develop my fitness. Then why not? Sure, why not?

I think maybe, yes, I can be able to play on the main tour.

Q. Stefanos Sr., I'd be remiss to not ask you about the back. Anything you can share about your condition?

STEFANOS TSITSIPAS: I'm much better than what I was a month ago. I wasn't 100% sure that I will have the chance to play the United Cup. It didn't really cross my mind when I was considering my comeback. I went through tough times at the end of the year. Things weren't looking very good.

Today I was feeling great. There was just one moment during the match that I felt something. But I think I shouldn't be concerned about it too much. It's not a major issue that I'm facing.

Q. Based on how you feel after today's match, is there a chance you'll play either singles or mixed doubles tomorrow?

STEFANOS TSITSIPAS: Yes, there are big chances I might do both.