Tennis and reality TV might seem like oil and water at first glance, but recent discussions among ATP stars reveal there's plenty of fun to be had when the two worlds collide. Imagine ATP players trading their match points for steamy escapades on the beloved dating show Love Island. This blend of athleticism and romance has fans eager to see which players would make captivating contestants.
During the 2025 Dubai Tennis Championships, ATP players took some time to ponder who they would throw onto the dating show, which has cemented itself as one of TV's guilty pleasures. Among the names dropped, none was more notable than Stefanos Tsitsipas, who became one of the favorite picks, even though he is currently coupled up with WTA star Paula Badosa.
Celebrated for his charm and charisma, Tsitsipas was met with playful jabs from his fellow players. Grigor Dimitrov showcased his signature humor when he said, "I’m a good wingman. I go Jack Draper, Hubie Hurkacz, maybe I take Stefanos. Paula will be mad," causing giggles all around. Dimitrov seemed completely unbothered by the fact he was actually choosing Tsitsipas, stating his penchant for selecting what he called the "pretty boys"—self-described studs who tower over the competition.
Matteo Berrettini, known for his good-natured energy, offered his own list of contenders for the island, highlighting Carlos Alcaraz's vivacious nature and claiming, "Carlitos Alcaraz, I think he’s going to have fun." His playfulness continues to charm fans and rivals alike. Berrettini added another name to the mix by picking Grigor Dimitrov and Andrea Vavassori, who reportedly has been known to enjoy social gatherings with many women.
Alex de Minaur chimed in too, declaring confidently, "Matteo Berrettini, first one that's come to mind. Carlitos Alcaraz, Dimitrov. Bang." Clearly, the chemistry between the players is undeniable, and they eagerly participated in this lighthearted banter.
Even as they enjoyed these jokes, the backdrop of real-life romantic entanglements adds depth to the conversation. The love story of Tsitsipas and Badosa has continued to capture the spotlight, having first been made public during the 2023 French Open. Their relationship quickly blossomed, becoming one of the more talked-about pairings on tour—one fan could hardly escape news of their mutual respect and support.
Yet, like any romance, this one faced challenges. Tsitsipas and Badosa hit rocky times and briefly split up during 2024 before rekindling their romance. Their bond appears fortified as they navigate both personal and professional endeavors together, indicates their recent appearances together at various events.
“She’s the mixed doubles partner I would always play with,” Tsitsipas previously said about Badosa, hinting at the commitment they share. Their successful pairing was made even sweeter as they won their first mixed-doubles title last year at the US Open during the exhibition event dubbed "the best date night ever." The enthusiasm around their relationship hints at what happens next as they tackle off-court drama and possibly make transitions onto reality TV.
These playful selections not only reflect the characters of the players but also underline their interconnected lives off the court. It's hard to dismiss how friendship and rivalries find ways to shape the narrative throughout their careers. They may even act as ideal ingredients for captivating storytelling on reality TV.
Despite engagement announcements from many of their peers—specifically before Christmas last year—Tennis remains full of less-than-perfect romances. Alcaraz made light of his single status during player conversations and seemed open to the notion of participating if it were his time to shine.
Among the sentiments shared, laughter is the common thread at the heart of it all; with Dimitrov playfully putting friend Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard under the bus would be considered hilarious. “Okay, Gio, I don’t know because he’s my friend and that's the only guy I want to put under the bus,” Fils said lightheartedly, perfectly capturing the camaraderie among the group.
Turning friendships—or rivalries—into reality TV relations brings about questions. Would Badosa's affectionate nature allow her boyfriend to thrive under the pressures of Love Island? Or could the tension transform characters such as Tsitsipas and Dimitrov, known for their competitive nature, and reshape their public images? Potential scenarios abound, teasing fans with the possibilities.
With this playful back-and-forth, ATP players continue to prove they know how to keep both their sports and social lives engaging and entertaining, so much so they could probably keep audiences glued to their seats through the sexiness of reality TV. Considering everyone’s playful quips, it’s safe to conclude: Tennis may yet find its way onto Love Island, where chaos, companionship, and charisma abound.