Stefanos Tsitsipas has never forgotten when he almost lost his life as a teenager. Fortunately, his father, Apostolos, was there to rescue him.

Tsitsipas’ relationship with Apostolos is highly scrutinized by the media. The 56-year-old was Stefanos’ coach for most of his career before ending their partnership in August.

Despite Stefanos’ achievements, some felt that Apostolos did not leave room for an expert and experienced coach who prevented him from taking the next step and reaching the top, such as Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz.

The split in August came after Tsitsipas lambasted his father in public after losing to Kei Nishikori at the Canadian Open. Their coaching relationship could not be healed after this and they separated.

According to one of Stefanos’ former physiotherapistsStefanos wanted to part ways with Apostolos several times before, but his mother made the Greek No. 1 feel guilty by reminding him of everything he had done for him.

The Tsitsipas family did not appreciate the former physio’s remarks. They sued him for themalthough it is difficult to see what damages can be sought for comments as relatively non-offensive as those of the physiotherapist.

It turns out that what Apostolos did for Stefanos didn’t just have to do with helping him develop his tennis career. He also helped save the former world number 3’s life when he was a teenager.

Stefanos told Spanish magazine Hola! that his father saved him when he was 15 when the seas became rough and that this experience continues to impact his outlook on life.

“It was a terrifying experience. I don’t think I’ve ever had such an experience, which taught me to live every moment, to be grateful and not to take anything for granted in life.”

“It must have had an impact on me because I also realized how terrifying nature can be, especially when you are not aware of it. The sea has great cultural value in Greece and I spent many time on the sea and the islands when I was a child That day taught me for the rest of my life that there are always dangers that we cannot control.

Fortunately, Tsitsipas suffered no lasting physical damage from the incident. Thanks to his health, fans have been enjoying the 26-year-old’s watchable tennis since his appearance on the ATP Tour.

However, there is clearly a lasting mental impact of almost losing your life at sea. It would be difficult for anyone not to have a different and unique outlook on life after a brush with death.

This scary moment could also help explain why Stefanos had a hard time leaving his father as coach. Telling an outside coach you’ve hired that you want to move on is very different from telling your father, to whom you owe your life, that it’s time to go your separate ways.

Stefanos ultimately decided to stop working with Apostolos. It will be interesting to observe whether it will be operational in 2025 after this decision.