Hello Monaco #10 Winter 2020–2021 | Page 40

WORDS OF WISDOM IN MONACO
HM : Back when Stefanos was growing up , was there ever a situation which demonstrated his resilience and determination to pursue his dream ?
YS : For sure . First of all , it was all about hard training and discipline . Not every child is capable of that . As a teenager , Stefanos was prescribed a strict diet for medical reasons . He absolutely had to exclude gluten , lactose and sugar which is a real disaster for a young child . He unflinchingly followed it for several years . Just imagine what strength of character he had ! At the same time , he was training and travelled a lot , carrying special food in his boxes and bags . One time , we were in Stockholm . He saw a pizza , a gluten-free pizza in a restaurant and gave me a look full of hope . I just couldn ’ t refuse . And he was happy to the point of tears in his eyes ...
HM : In the world of sports , the success criteria are obvious : titles , podium places , awards , records . What are they in your everyday life ?
© Stefanos Tsitsipas
Although wealthy people do also often have headaches investing it and dealing with it correctly . I do believe that we always need to stay human , which includes helping those in need financially .
HM : Do you have a role model ? An outstanding person who inspires you ?
YS : For me personally , it is Academician Dmitry Likhachov . His thoughts have always been dear to my heart . In terms of human qualities ; he was amazing .
Then writers , poets , people who are « guiding » us , making us look into our inner depths that we would rarely reach otherwise . The actor Serebryakov , for example . I am on the same wavelength as him . Or the journalist , writer and radio
YS : In my understanding , success is doing something that brings you pleasure and satisfaction . With the right perspective , of course . This is probably what success is all about .
© Stefanos Tsitsipas
HM : What role does money play in your life ?
YS : It gives you a certain tranquility . Which is not bad . With all the hard work the athletes are taking on , it is an important bonus .
A coach is the most valuable thing . Time is also vital , especially in sports .
presenter , Pyotr Vail , a big friend of Dovlatov . I have read all his books . I believe he is absolutely unique .
HM : What would you dream to change in the modern world ?
YS : I would unite orphanages with nursing homes . Old people often experience a terrible feeling of loneliness ; at the same time young children are growing up unattended .
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