Greece Tennis star Stefanos Tsitsipas wants record Grand Slam winner Novak Djokovic to be less selfish since the latter wants to bag more grand slams.
Tsitsipas defeated Australia's Jordan Thompson to make way to the third round of the Australia Open 2024.
Last year's finalist struggled to get going in front of a rowdy crowd on Margaret Court Arena before finally getting over the line 4-6, 7-6 (8/6), 6-2, 7-6 (7/4) after a gruelling 3 hours and 36 minutes.
While talking after the game, Tsitsipas was asked whether he would be able to win his first-ever Grand Slam in Australia after losing two in his career.
Tsitsipas jokingly said that Djokovic needs to be less selfish so others can win.
"Numbers don’t lie. Novak has won here 12 times. He’s a very selfish person. I think he just needs to wake up one day & get less selfish. Sharing is caring more type of vibe," the 25-year-old said.
"There are 2 scenarios. Someone needs to beat Novak that’s not me. Or it has to be me. We’ll find a way," he added.
Meanwhile, Tsitsipas is among the players who are not pleased with the Australian Open fan entertainment.
The introduction of a courtside bar at this year’s Australian Open, as they strive to be more fan-friendly, has received criticism. Additionally, the presence of DJs has provoked displeasure from players, with Stefanos Tsitsipas being one of the critics.
With the 2024 Australian Open well underway, Melbourne Park has become a hub for all things tennis. However, there has been an effort from tournament organisers to enhance the spectator experience.
One of the debated topics is the presence of DJs on the grounds at Melbourne Park, which has garnered mixed reactions from players – some in favour and others against the decision.
“I’m not a huge fan of it,” the Greek said on Tuesday.
“That’s why Wimbledon is one of my favourite tournaments because there is silence and you can just concentrate and focus on your game.
“I have had a similar experience at the US Open. So not a fan.”
He stated that the noise generated by the DJs may impact the players' concentration during their matches as the sound resonates throughout the venue.
Another regulation that has not garnered favour among the players is the permission for fans to return to their seats after each service game.
In previous years, spectators were only permitted to enter the court to observe a match during player end changes.