As Stefanos Tsitsipas aims for his first Barcelona title, he credits girlfriend Paula Badosa’s father as his most loyal supporter and hints at a major coaching update post-French Open.
Barcelona [Spain], April 18 — Greek tennis star Stefanos Tsitsipas has revealed that his most devoted supporter isn’t his father or a childhood coach—but rather Josep Badosa, the father of WTA star and girlfriend Paula Badosa.
In a lighthearted interview with the ATP Tour, the world No. 16 shared a surprising anecdote about Josep’s unwavering loyalty. “Josep Badosa, Paula’s father,” Tsitsipas said when asked about his biggest fan. “He keeps wearing ‘Team Tsitsipas’ [on his shirt] just everywhere he goes! There’s this one t-shirt that I gave him, and he just wears it everywhere.”
Tsitsipas and Badosa, who’ve been dating for nearly two years, have been frequently spotted cheering each other from the stands. The mutual support extends into their families, with Josep’s constant presence making him an unofficial part of Tsitsipas’ entourage.
The 25-year-old is having a solid 2025 so far, having secured his first ATP 500 title in Dubai, and is now targeting his long-elusive first title in Barcelona, where he has been a runner-up three times.
“Every year is difficult, I don’t think reaching any of those finals has been easy, this is an ATP 500 and there are very good players,” Tsitsipas said ahead of his quarterfinal clash. “I want the trophy. Hopefully I can show a great version of tennis and achieve something big, but I want to take it day by day.”
Meanwhile, Badosa has had a mixed year. After a breakthrough comeback in 2023, including a title win in Washington and strong showings at several Grand Slams and WTA 1000 events, she is currently sidelined with a recurring back injury. Her most recent setback came after withdrawing from Miami Open, prompting her to take time off for recovery.
As Tsitsipas continues to carry the flag for the couple on tour, there may be a significant development in his coaching camp. Reports suggest that Wimbledon champion Goran Ivanisevic could join Tsitsipas’ team post-Roland Garros.
Though tight-lipped about the rumor, Tsitsipas teased an official update. “I’ll make an official announcement soon, but I can’t say anything yet,” he said in Barcelona.
With strong support from both his own family and his girlfriend’s, Stefanos Tsitsipas seems primed for a deep run — and perhaps a breakthrough — at the Barcelona Open.