The grin said it all as Stefanos Tsitsipas realised the enormity of what may come in a matter of days as world No.1 status looms.
After defeating Russia’s Karen Khachanov in the Australian Open semi final – 7-6, 6-4, 6-7, 6-3 – the Greek tennis could go to the top for the first time in his career.
A win will put Tsitsipas to the top, leapfrogging the current world No.1 player Carlos Alcaraz, fellow Spaniard Rafael Nadal, and Norwegian breakout Casper Ruud.
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It’s the first time Tsitsipas has made it to the Australian Open final having previously made it to the semi finals on four occasions.
“I like that number,” he told Jim Courier about the No.1 ranking.
“It’s all about you. It’s singular. It’s one.
“These are the moments I’ve been working hard for, to be able to play finals like this, but finals that have a bigger meaning than just a final.
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“It’s a grand slam final. I’m fighting for the No.1 spot. It’s a childhood dream to be able to be capturing that spot one day. I’m close.”
Tsitsipas has drawn a healthy supporting cast, with Greek flags aplenty at his matches.
The occasional sentence of Australian slang also earnt him favour, so it was no surprise that Rod Laver Arena erupted when he expressed his thanks to play a final on the famed court.
“I feel blessed for the fact that I’m able to play tennis at this level,” said Tsitsipas.
“I’ve been wanting for many years to put Greek tennis on the map. I know it probably doesn’t mean as much for Australians because you’re always producing amazing players.
“They’ve always had their fair share of high, top players, but coming from a small country like Greece, I’m so grateful that I get support like this.
“I never wouldn’t have thought I would be treated so well here.”
Tsitsipas charges into Australian Open final
The semi final berth brought back childhood memories for Tsitsipas, who watched Cypriot tennis star Marcos Baghdatis make the Australian Open final in 2006.
Tsitsipas said Baghdatis was courtside for Friday’s semi final.
“I first watched Marcos Baghdatis do it a couple of years ago be in the finals playing in this court and I dreamed as a kid to maybe one day compete on this court against the best players in the world,” said Tsitsipas.
“I’m happy with the fight I put out there today. It brings back memories from watching it as a kid on TV and cheering him on.
“Unfortunately, it didn’t go his way, but he is in our hearts and I always consider him as one of my favourite players. He’s here, thank god. He’s here somewhere.”
Tsitsipas will face the winner of Friday night’s other match featuring red-hot tournament favourite Novak Djokovic and Tommy Paul.
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