Guillermo Vilas was once called “the reluctant tennis champion” by an Esquire magazine 1978 cover story in part because of his inherent artistic inclinations, which included dabbling in music, writing and poetry.
Now another new Vilas type personality has emerged on the ATP World Tour because of his diverse interests outside the tennis universe – Stefanos Tsitsipas.
“I don’t want to waste a single day of my life being stagnant or staying still and not elevating myself through experiences. I have a fear of missing out and I don’t want people to know me only for my tennis. Life is about adventures, life is about creating beautiful memories.”
The 24 year old winner of two ATP Masters Series titles and the 2019 World Tour Finals, intends to give expression to some of his inner visions and creative urges.
“I want to have a broader, bigger empire than just tennis,” The two time Grand Slam finalist currently ranked no. 3 in the world said. “I’ve explored the filmmaking part of what I am capable of and what stories I want to tell. Music allowed me to express something else.”
“I would like to give people the ability to dream and not be afraid. And the only way you can get to this place is by seeking discomfort and letting yourself free.”
“Forsake all worries save for thy art.” – Leonardo Da Vinci
BNP Paribas Open · Guillermo Vilas · Leonardo Da Vinci · Stefanos Tsitsipas
catherine · March 9, 2023 at 8:30 am
Blind Borges perfect squash of Vilas’ poetic ambitions:
‘Imagine me playing tennis’.
Scoop Malinowski · March 9, 2023 at 8:57 am
Please elaborate Catherine, I missed the whole Vilas poet episode. Before my time.
catherine · March 9, 2023 at 10:00 am
Jorge Luis Borges was an Argentinian poet and major literary figure. When Vilas was questioned about his poetic aspirations he mentioned Borges as one his heroes, rather naturally as a fellow Argentinian.
Some bright spark asked Borges if he’d read Vilas’ poetry and if he had any opinions about it. This is when JLB supposedly replied: ‘Imagine me playing tennis.’
JLB of course being blind.
Scoop Malinowski · March 9, 2023 at 10:14 am
Very funny, but I hate to laugh at Vilas expense, one of my all time favorite sports figures and favorite interviews. No way was Vilas poetry that bad, going to read and compare each’s poetry this week… thanks for sharing that Catherine. )
Betting Exchange · March 26, 2023 at 10:25 pm
Thank you for sharing this article about Tsitsipas Artistic Vibes Remind Of Vilas. This is highly appreciated.