Stefanos Tsitsipas on Monday put the stamp of approval on his hiring of Aussie Mark Philippoussis as he full-time coach, replacing long-suffering father Apostolos.
Tensions in recent years in the family-run player box had been rising along with the ranking of ATP No. 4 Tsitsipas.
The Greek who turns 25 on Saturday is dreaming of a good start to his new arrangement this week at the Toronto Masters, where he takes the fourth seeding.
The impending coaching shakeup was an open secret around the locker room, with the Tsitsipas Greek family dynamic often characterised as chaotic and disorganised during the heat of matches..
The entry of Las Vegas-based Philippoussis, 46, a former US Open finalist, is expected to calm the waters.
Tsitsipas arrived in Canada after winning a hardcourt title at the weekend in Los Cabos, Mexico.
“For my father it’s very healthy to take some time away from the court and feel refreshed again,” the player said.
“Of course I love him and I want him to be part of that journey that we have built together – he’s not going anywhere.
“He’s still with us, and he’s still there following our path and journey.”
During his career, Philippoussis also dealt with a problematic tennis father.
Tsitsipas said his new team ambience should be “much more tranquility and calmness in the air when I’m competing.”
He added: “Parents can get emotional sometimes, and I completely understand that,” he said. I can imagine how difficult it can be at times seeing your child give it their all and to be going through so much during a match.”
