Channeling the one-handed backhand of Roger Federer, the fighting spirit of Rafael Nadal, and the long hair and composure of Bjorn Borg, Stefanos Tsitsipas announced himself as the next big star on tour.

At the Rogers Cup, the Greek youngster took down four Top 10 players before facing off against Nadal in his first ATP Masters 1000 final. Dominic Thiem, Novak Djokovic, Alexander Zverev, and Kevin Anderson, all title contenders, were swept aside by the 20-year-old.

Advertising

It was a birthday battle for Tsitsipas, one that he lost, 6-2, 7-6 (4), but he left everything he had out on the court. He was still in great spirits after, even playing table tennis with tournament staff after the final.

Nadal and Tsitsipas previously played the Barcelona Open final this year, where Nadal won far more handily, 6-2, 6-1. The two won't be facing off again in the Cincinnati as the Spaniard has decided to drop out. Tsitsipas will face David Goffin on Tuesday.

Advertising

The Baseline Player 
of the Week: 
Stefanos Tsitsipas

The Baseline Player of the Week: Stefanos Tsitsipas

Tennis Channel PLUS is your home for the Western & Southern Open. Watch every match live from 8 courts only on Tennis Channel PLUS.