Australian Open 2019: Stefanos Tsitsipas continues to make rapid strides
What's the story
Greek rising star Stefanos Tsitsipas has continued his phenomenal run in this year's Australian Open. The 20-year-old, who had beaten Roger Federer in the round of 16, went on to overcome an in-form Roberto Bautista Agut in the quarter-final. He will now face legend Rafael Nadal in the semi-final. Tsitsipas has continued to make rapid strides. Here's more.
Achievement
Tsitsipas first Greek player to get so far
Tsitsipas has become the talk of the town after his stupendous victory against Federer. This time he relied on his confidence and form to down Agut 7-5, 4-6, 6-4, 7-6 on Rod Laver Arena. He became the youngest man to reach the semis here since Andy Roddick (2003). He is also the first Greek - man or woman - to get so far.
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I'm just living the dream, says Tsitsipas
"I'm just living the dream, living what I've been working hard for. I feel a bit emotional but not too much - I know I really worked hard to get here, playing in semis of a Grand Slam." said Tsitsipas.
Rafa
Tsitsipas to face Rafa in the semis
Tsitsipas will face a stern challenge in the semis after a ruthless Rafael Nadal continued his relentless progress. The Spaniard thrashed Frances Tiafoe 6-3, 6-4, 6-2 to book a berth in the last four. Tiafoe, 21, had shocked Kevin Anderson and Grigor Dimitrov, but Rafa was too much of a task for him. It remains to be seen how Tsitsipas fares against Nadal.
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'I am very happy with the way I played tonight'
"I had some trouble at this event all my career so I am very happy with the way I played tonight. I feel lucky to be where I am after what I went through to be able to compete at this level," said Rafa.