While tsitsipas

American Alex Michelsen: Stefanos Tsitsipas, reflecting on his surprise first-round exit from the Australian Open, admitted that his decision to withdraw from doubles to preserve energy backfired spectacularly.

"It’s quite ironic. My whole [idea] was to try to go deep into the Australian Open... I guess karma hit me," Tsitsipas said after his four-set loss to American Alex Michelsen. The Greek star’s early departure marked a stark departure from his usual success at Melbourne Park, where he has often shone as one of the tournament’s standout performers.

Tsitsipas, a three-time semi-finalist and 2023 runner-up in Melbourne, made a calculated choice to prioritize singles by pulling out of doubles with his brother, Petros. His goal was clear: save energy for a deep run in the draw. Yet, the strategy unraveled when the 26-year-old fell to the 20-year-old Michelsen, who outclassed him with bold shot-making and composure in key moments.