Amid the sun-soaked clay courts of the 2025 Barcelona Open, Stefanos Tsitsipas, the world No. 16, has not only been battling opponents but also winning hearts with a touching revelation about his biggest supporter: Josep Badosa, the father of his girlfriend, WTA star Paula Badosa. As Tsitsipas advanced to the quarterfinals of the ATP 500 event, he shared a surprising anecdote that highlights the extraordinary dedication of Josep, painting a picture of a bond that transcends the tennis court. The Greek star’s story, revealed during a candid interview, underscores the personal connections that fuel his drive, even as he navigates a challenging season.
Tsitsipas and Badosa, affectionately dubbed “Tsitsidosa” by fans, have been a tennis power couple since June 2023, their romance blossoming after a chance encounter at the Italian Open. Their relationship, marked by mutual support and shared ambitions, has captivated the tennis world, with the duo often spotted cheering each other on. While Tsitsipas’ father, Apostolos, has long been a fixture in his player’s box, coaching him to a career-high ranking of No. 3, it’s Josep Badosa who has claimed the title of his most ardent fan. “Josep Badosa, Paula’s father,” Tsitsipas declared when asked about his biggest supporter, his smile betraying the warmth he feels for the man who has become an unexpected pillar in his corner.
Josep’s dedication is no small feat. Unlike the ever-present Apostolos, who has guided Tsitsipas through three Monte Carlo Masters titles and two Grand Slam finals, Josep typically maintains a low profile, rarely attending tournaments. Yet, when he does, his enthusiasm for Tsitsipas is unmatched. The Spaniard, who has watched his daughter climb back to the WTA top 10 after a grueling battle with a chronic back injury, extends his fervor to Tsitsipas, often traveling great distances to support the Greek star. His presence was notably felt courtside during Paula’s fourth-round match at the 2024 China Open, where she credited him for her success, saying, “I wouldn’t be here without him so he’s very special and I owe him so much.” For Tsitsipas, Josep’s commitment is a source of motivation, especially in moments of doubt.
Tsitsipas’ 2025 season has been a mixed bag. A first-round exit at the Australian Open to Alex Michelsen was a low point, but he rebounded with a title at the Dubai Championships, defeating Felix Auger-Aliassime in a clinical display. His run to the Monte Carlo quarterfinals, where he was the defending champion, showed flashes of his clay-court brilliance, though a loss to Carlos Alcaraz halted his momentum. In Barcelona, where he’s a three-time finalist, Tsitsipas is determined to finally lift the trophy. “Every year is difficult, I don’t think reaching any of those finals has been easy, this is an ATP 500 and there are very good players,” he said, acknowledging the fierce competition. His straight-sets win over Harold Mayot in the first round and a gritty victory over Sebastian Korda set up a quarterfinal clash with Arthur Fils, but a mid-match retirement due to a minor injury against Fils cut his campaign short.
Off the court, Tsitsipas and Badosa’s relationship continues to thrive, despite a brief split in May 2024. Their reconciliation, fueled by what Tsitsipas called an “intense love,” has strengthened their bond. Badosa’s remarkable comeback, highlighted by a Washington Open title and an Australian Open semifinal run, has inspired Tsitsipas. “With her run I thought, ‘If she can do it, why can’t I?’” he told reporters, admitting that her success in Melbourne reignited his own passion. The couple’s shared experiences, from cooking together—Badosa recently introduced him to the joys of culinary chats—to their dream of playing mixed doubles at the 2025 US Open, reflect a partnership rooted in mutual growth.
Josep’s unwavering support adds a heartwarming layer to Tsitsipas’ journey. Whether it’s cheering from the stands or offering quiet encouragement, his presence reminds Tsitsipas of the family he’s gained through Badosa. As Tsitsipas eyes the Madrid Open and Roland Garros, where he reached the 2021 final, Josep’s fandom will undoubtedly be a source of strength. For now, the tennis world celebrates this unlikely cheerleader, whose affection for Tsitsipas proves that in the high-stakes world of professional tennis, love and loyalty can be the ultimate game-changers.
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