Tsitsipas Reveals Why He Avoids South American Tournaments: Money Concerns

Tsitsipas Cites Financial Disparity as Reason for Avoiding South American Tennis Circuit

Stefanos Tsitsipas, the former world No. 3, has revealed that financial considerations are the primary reason he has never competed in the South American ATP swing, despite acknowledging the passion of fans in the region and his affinity for clay courts. The Greek star explained that appearance fees offered in South America simply don’t compare to those available in the Middle East and Europe.

“I’ve never received good offers to go there; when the financial gap is big, you really have no option but to stick with what supports your career,” Tsitsipas told CLAY in a recent interview conducted in Australia. He specifically noted that tournaments in Buenos Aires, Rio de Janeiro, and Santiago have not presented financially viable opportunities.

“South America has never offered me a deal good enough to seriously consider it. The Middle East has always been much better in terms of appearance fees. The European swing has also provided strong financial incentives. That makes a difference,” Tsitsipas stated. He emphasized that while he appreciates the enthusiasm of South American fans, economic realities dictate his tournament choices.

Despite not having played in the region, Tsitsipas is aware of his popularity there. “I also have many fans there, and I can see it through the activity on my social media and the constant interaction with followers from that part of the world,” he said.

The 27-year-old is currently facing a slump in form, having recently lost his title defense at the ATP 500 tournament in Dubai to Ugo Humbert, 6–4, 7–5. This defeat will result in Tsitsipas dropping out of the ATP top 40 for the first time since May 2018.

Tsitsipas’s father and coach, Apostolos Tsitsipas, previously discussed the possibility of shifting the player’s focus to clay earlier this year, but a final decision had not been made as of last year’s US Open. “We had many conversations about it this year. Last year he did well in Dubai, so we wondered whether to follow that path or go to clay. We haven’t decided yet. We’re still weighing the pros and cons. Buenos Aires, Rio and Santiago are great tournaments and great cities, but the calendar right after Australia makes it complicated. Still, it’s always an option,” Apostolos Tsitsipas told CLAY.

The former world No. 3 is now set to resume working with coach Dimitris Chatzinikolaou, having previously collaborated with him after separating from his father. Apostolos will still be involved, accompanying his son to approximately 70 percent of tournaments in 2026.

Tsitsipas recently expressed frustration with his performance following his early exit from the Australian Open, stating, “I’m very disappointed. I had some goals that I couldn’t achieve. It’s been a while since I’ve won several matches in a row at a Grand Slam, and it’s frustrating to find myself in this position again, unable to reach the second week of a major.”