Former World Number 3 Stefanos Tsitsipas Faces Harsh Criticism From Jim Courier Amid Ranking Slump

Four-time major winner Jim Courier criticizes world number 80 Stefanos Tsitsipas for failing to address backhand weaknesses and tactical errors in Madrid.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 28, 2026, 3:30 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from Tennis365

Technical Stagnation Under the Professional Spotlight

The career trajectory of Stefanos Tsitsipas has come under intense scrutiny from four-time Grand Slam champion Jim Courier, who recently highlighted a lack of evolution in the Greek player’s game. Despite reaching a career high of world number 3 in the past, Tsitsipas has struggled to maintain his elite standing, currently sitting at world number 80. Courier, speaking on the Tennis Channel, identified several specific technical areas where the 2024 ATP title winner has failed to improve, suggesting that these persistent vulnerabilities are now being consistently exploited by lower-ranked opponents on the professional circuit.

A Detailed Inventory of Tactical Deficiencies

According to Courier, the structural weaknesses in the Tsitsipas game have remained unaddressed for too long to be considered minor adjustments. The American commentator described the Greek’s slice backhand and backhand return as inadequate for the modern top-tier game. Furthermore, Courier pointed to a strategic failure regarding court positioning on varied surfaces, noting that Tsitsipas has shown an inability to recognize when he should stand further back on second serve returns. This lack of tactical flexibility prevents him from utilizing his more powerful forehand, a limitation Courier directly categorized as a failure in professional development.

Disciplinary Friction and Official Warnings in Madrid

The technical criticism of Tsitsipas has been mirrored by a series of disciplinary incidents during his campaign in the Spanish capital. During his opening match in Madrid, the Greek engaged in a protracted and heated debate with chair umpire Marijana Veljovic regarding coaching violations. Despite being repeatedly warned about constant communication with his bench, Tsitsipas challenged the official's interpretation of the rules, questioning why his dialogue was considered a breach if it did not bother his opponent. The exchange ultimately resulted in a point penalty during the third set, further illustrating the player's current internal and external frustrations.