Roger Federer: Stefanos Tsitsipas Australian Open defeat proved ONE thing - pundit
REIGNING Australian Open champion Roger Federer was dumped out at the fourth round stage by 14th seed Stefanos Tsitsipas.
Stefanos Tsitsipas: I’ve idolised Roger Federer since I was six
20-time Grand Slam winner Federer fell to a 7-6 6-7 5-7 6-7 defeat to Tsitsipas, who had never gone past the fourth round at any of the four major tournaments.
Mark Woodforde, a 17-time Grand Slam doubles champion, raved over the youngster’s performance.
“Federer didn't play a bad match. It was the inspired play of Tsitsipas who from the start played to a great level,” Woodforde told 5Live.
“We've seen the changing of the guard.
“He gave his all and it's a thoroughly deserving victory.”
20-year-old Tsitsipas couldn’t quite believe that he had beaten his idol, and revealed his emotion to John McEnroe after the four-set victory.
"There's nothing I can describe it to. I am the happiest man on earth,” Tsitsipas told Eurosport.
"From the beginning I went in believing in myself and my abilities. Roger is a legend, he showed such a good tennis over the years.
“I’ve been analysing him since the age of six, and this is a dream to face him.
"Winning this - I cannot describe it."