Georgios Frangulis, the partner of tennis star Aryna Sabalenka, has found himself thrust into the global spotlight. From the emotional rollercoaster of supporting Sabalenka from her box to engaging in inspiring conversations with Novak Djokovic, Frangulis’s life has become intertwined with the world of professional tennis.
Beyond his personal connection to the sport, Frangulis is a successful businessman. As the founder of Oakberry, a global açaí brand, and an investor in Le Mans Football Club alongside Djokovic and former Formula 1 drivers Felipe Massa and Kevin Magnussen, Frangulis exemplifies a blend of passion and entrepreneurial spirit. In a recent interview, Frangulis shared his thoughts on love, pressure, business, and the invaluable lessons he has learned from both Sabalenka and Djokovic, whom he considers “the GOAT standard in terms of mindset and sharpness.”
This article delves into Frangulis’s experiences, providing insights into his relationship with Sabalenka and Djokovic, his business ventures, and his perspective on the mental fortitude required to excel in both sports and entrepreneurship.
Adapting to the Tennis World: Highs and Lows
For Georgios Frangulis, entering the tennis world has been a unique experience, primarily driven by his relationship with Aryna Sabalenka. He openly admits that while Aryna is what he enjoys most about it, the most challenging part is sitting in her box during matches. He describes it as one of the most stressful situations he has ever faced. Despite having a long-standing love for tennis and sponsoring tournaments through his company, Oakberry, the personal connection brings a completely different dimension.
“When you have such a personal connection with someone and with the sport, it becomes something completely different. Sitting in the box during tough matches is by far the hardest part,”
Frangulis shared. This blend of personal involvement and high-stakes competition creates a unique emotional environment that he is still navigating.
Providing Emotional Support: A Balancing Act
During Aryna’s matches, Georgios focuses on providing unwavering support without being a distraction. He consciously avoids saying anything during the matches, mindful that Aryna notices everything happening in her box. Instead, he channels his energy into enthusiastic applause, ensuring she feels supported and loved. His primary concern is Aryna’s well-being after the match, focusing on her overall feelings regardless of the outcome.
After a tough loss, Georgios keeps his message simple and heartfelt: “I just say that I love her and, ‘on to the next one.’” He acknowledges that losses are part of the sport, but he emphasizes the importance of reminding her that there is always another day. He understands that tennis is mentally demanding, requiring athletes to cope with frequent losses. His consistent support helps Aryna maintain a positive outlook and resilience.
Celebrating Victories: The US Open Highlight
Among the victories, Georgios fondly recalls last year’s US Open as a particularly special celebration. With many friends in town, the night was filled with joy and excitement. The victory coincided with his birthday, making the occasion even more memorable. While he refrains from sharing too many details, it is clear that the US Open celebration holds a cherished place in his memory.
The Partnership with Novak Djokovic: Le Mans and Beyond
Georgios Frangulis’s admiration for Novak Djokovic extends beyond the tennis court. He describes Djokovic as an idol, someone he has long admired for his achievements and mindset. When the opportunity to invest in Le Mans Football Club arose, Georgios brought in investors, including Djokovic. He views Djokovic as the “GOAT standard in terms of mindset and sharpness as an athlete,” making him a valuable partner in this venture.
Djokovic’s enthusiasm for the Le Mans project was immediate. The inclusion of Felipe Massa and Kevin Magnussen further aligned the club with the motorsport heritage of Le Mans, creating a synergy that excites Frangulis. He values the chance to learn from Djokovic, noting that exploring new areas outside of tennis is refreshing for him. Their conversations range from business and politics to wellness, highlighting Djokovic’s curiosity and engagement with the world.
Comparing Mental Fortitude: Djokovic and Sabalenka
When comparing the mental strength of Djokovic and Sabalenka, Georgios notes that Aryna also benefits from her interactions with Djokovic. She values his perspective and experience, recognizing his unparalleled achievements in tennis. He emphasizes that any tennis player would be thrilled to learn from Djokovic, making their relationship a valuable asset for Aryna’s mental and professional growth.
Oakberry and Wellness: A Shared Passion
Georgios and Novak have also bonded over Oakberry, Georgios’s açaí company. Djokovic’s focus on wellness and body care aligns perfectly with Oakberry’s mission, making him a natural advocate for the brand. Georgios feels fortunate to learn from both Djokovic and Sabalenka, enhancing his understanding of the importance of physical and mental well-being in achieving peak performance.
Final Thoughts: Lessons in Mindset and Success
Georgios Frangulis’s journey into the world of tennis, driven by his relationship with Aryna Sabalenka, has provided him with invaluable insights into the mental demands of high-level sports. His partnership with Novak Djokovic has further enriched his understanding of mindset and success, both on and off the court. As he balances his personal life with his business ventures, Frangulis exemplifies the power of passion, resilience, and continuous learning.
The lessons he has learned from Sabalenka and Djokovic—the importance of unwavering support, the ability to bounce back from setbacks, and the relentless pursuit of excellence—serve as a testament to the transformative potential of sports and meaningful relationships. As Georgios continues to navigate the complexities of tennis and entrepreneurship, his experiences offer inspiration for those seeking to excel in their own endeavors.
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