Tsitsipas reaches Gstaad final after tough semifinal battle

Stefanos Tsitsipas battled through a demanding semifinal to secure his spot in the Gstaad Open final. The Greek tennis player overcame Aleksandr Shevchenko in a closely contested match that went to three sets. Despite the intensity, Tsitsipas praised his opponent's effort, stating both players deserved to advance.

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It was a big battle with Aleksandr. I think we both played a good game, it's a shame that only one can be the winner in the end. I feel like we both deserved it. I want to congratulate him for his amazing effort today.

Speaking after the match, Tsitsipas described the unique conditions at the tournament, held in the Swiss Alps. He noted the adjustment required from sea-level play in Monte Carlo to the higher altitude, which he believes benefits his game by affecting ball bounce and enhancing his powerful shots. "It's difficult here, especially the first few days," Tsitsipas said. "I was in Monte Carlo, by the sea, and now I'm here in the mountains."

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It's difficult here, especially the first few days. I was in Monte Carlo, by the sea, and now I'm here in the mountains. It takes a little time to get used to the ball's bounces, but I think this enhances my game. The altitude helps my best shots, makes the ball lift a little more and those who have a big serve and powerful shots have a small advantage.

The world number four is now focused on the final against Rafael Collignon. Tsitsipas expects another challenging encounter, emphasizing his determination to perform at his best. "We both had long matches, but we both wanted it very much," he stated. "We'll both go out there and give it our all. I don't expect anything less than a big fight."

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We both had long matches, but we both wanted it very much. We'll both go out there and give it our all. I don't expect anything less than a big fight. I know I've said it before, but in a final you want to give it your all. I want to go out there and do the best I can.