Alexander Zverev defeated Stefanos Tsitsipas 6-4, 3-6, and 7-6 to reach the Cincinnati Masters finals on Monday.
At the end of the first round, Tsitsipas returned to the locker room with all of his things before coming back to the wrath of his opponent.
“I have already said it. Nothing crazy. It’s not astrophysics. I’m heading towards the locker room to go change my T-shirt.” Tsitsipas said.
“I don’t think it would be very nice if I change shorts on the court in front of everybody. I prefer to do that in the locker room, including socks and shoes.” he added.
Despite coming in for criticism and clearly frustrating Zverev, Tsitsipas has insisted he will continue to do it in the feature.
“I’m person that sweats a bit more than others. I think it’s acceptable. Some people were teasing me and making fun of this, but it’s just how it works for me,” Tsitsipas said.
“People have to understand. I’m not going to stop doing it, because it makes me feel better when I step out on the court to begin the new set.” Tsitsipas added.
There was also a small incident at the end of the second set. Tsitsipas wanted to return to the locker room before the start of the third set but the referee of the match has refused it.
“The referee does not have a good reputation on the ciruit. I’m not sure if Zverev’s reaction influenced this, or if it’s in the rules, which I don’t think I’ll check later.” Tsitsipas said.
“A player must be allowed to use the bathroom during each set, as far as I know. The referee, for some reason, wanted to customise the rules to his liking, which was not pleasant.” he added.
