Mark Philipoussis has had his troubles with the Australian media. His father did not let him attempt to qualify for Wimbledon, a mistake according to the media. They thought he should be awarded a wild card. Mark is of Greek decent, where families are very close. He will listen to the man who has raised him, as well as taught him how to play aggressively.

This year he refused to play the Davis Cup opening rounds as he claimed it did not fit into his schedule. The Australian captain, John Newcombe decided that Mark won't play this year. Newcombe was prepared to lose against Zimbabwe as Mark showed up in Mildura fully fit. As it happens Australia lost, due to some great play from the Black brothers. Mark was not too concerned as he new he could have played well. The Aussie public, are apparently upset with Mark, and support the Newcombe point of view. They are apparently upset that we will not win the Cup this year.

Mark Philipoussis has been given nick names by the media such as the Scud or the Pou.

Mark has terrific power and held the record for the hardest serve of 129mph. He hits his groundstrokes with lots of power and topspin. He needs to improve his consistency as he can play well one day, horrible the next. His speed is not great and is exploited by the top players.

1997

1996

At the Australian Open, Philipoussis thrashed top seed Sampras in straight sets. He reached the round of 16 at this tournament. Philipoussis won his first title in Lyon, and dedicated it to his late manager. At the US Open he won every match in straight sets up to the round of 16. This included a belting of 15 seeded Pioline. He lost an eagily awaited match to Sampras.

Philipoussis made the final of Junior Wimbledon and the semi finals of Junior Australian Open.