Stefanos Tsitsipas played the Roland Garros final with a heavy heart.
The 22-year-old Tsitsipas revealed his beloved paternal grandmother passed away five minutes before he stepped on Court Philippe Chatrier to face world No. 1 Novak Djokovic in the Roland Garros final.
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Tsitsipas paid tribute to his grandmother in a touching Instagram post.
"Lifting trophies and celebrating wins is something, but not everything," Tsitsipas wrote. "Five minutes before entering the court my very beloved grandmother lost her battle with life. A wise woman whose faith in life, and willingness to give and provide can't be compared to any other human being that I have ever met.
"It's important to have more people like her in this world. Because people like her make you come alive. They make you dream. I would like to say that regardless of the day, circumstance or situation, this is entirely dedicated to her, and only her. Thank you for for raising my father. Without him this wouldn't have been possible."
The Monte-Carlo champion was bidding to make history as the first Greek Grand Slam champion. Tsitsipas, who rises to a career-high ranking of No. 4, believes he will achieve his Grand Slam dream.
"I believe, yes, I'm able to play for titles like this," Tsitsipas said. "Despite my loss today, I have faith in my game. I very much believe I can get to that point very soon. I was close today.
"Every opponent is difficult. There's a small difference between the player I played today and the ones from before. But I think with the same attitude and the same -- if I don't downgrade myself, I see no reason for me not to be holding that trophy one day."
Photo credit: Roland Garros Facebook