Stefanos Tsitsipas has revealed that he learnt his grandmother had died just five minutes before stepping onto the court for Sunday's French Open final against Novak Djokovic at Roland Garros.
The 22-year-old Greek raced into a two set lead in the final, but world number one Djokovic fought back to win the next three sets.
Tsitsipas dedicates French Open final appearance to late grandmother
"Life isn't about winning or losing," Tsitsipas wrote on Instagram.
"It's about enjoying every single moment in life whether that's alone or with others. Living a meaningful life without misery and abjection.
"Lifting trophies and celebrating wins is something, but not everything. 5 minutes before entering the court my very beloved grandmother lost her battle with life.
"A wise woman whose faith in life, and willingness to give and provide can't be compared to any other human being that I have ever met.
"It's important to have more people like her in this world. Because people like her make you come alive. They make you dream.
"I would like to say that regardless of the day, circumstance or situation, this is entirely dedicated to her, and only her.
"Thank you for raising my father. Without him this wouldn't have been possible."
Tsitsipas had beaten Alexander Zverev on Friday to reach what was his first ever Grand Slam final. Sunday's victory was the 19th Grand Slam win of Djokovic's career.
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