We were all a little curious to see how Stefanos Tsitsipas would start 2026. We need to admit that he disappointed last year because there seemed to be a lack of balance after a very short period of collaboration with Goran Ivanisevic that ended rather badly, and he ultimately returned to his father’s coaching. The results obviously didn’t follow, and then he got injured.

As the match between Greece and Japan approached, more light was shed on his period away from the courts, and he opened up about the difficult time he went through and the physical issues he experienced. This only heightened curiosity about how he would make his comeback.

Finally came the match against Shintaro Mochizuki, the World number 99, where, on paper, Stefanos was the overwhelming favorite, but you never know. The match began with Stefanos somewhat hesitant and imprecise, immediately conceding two games while barely winning a point. Then, he started to find his rhythm and gradually loosened up.

So, it’s certainly not a huge victory, but it’s an important one that will boost his morale and allow him to increase his confidence in his tennis. We know that tennis is very much a mental game, so this can undoubtedly help him start the main tour in good shape.