Former World No. 3 Maria Sakkari Finds Success at the Mubadala Citi DC Open
Washington, DC has become a second home for former world No. 3 Maria Sakkari, who has been residing in the United States capital for the past two years with her boyfriend, Konstantinos Mitsotakis. The Mubadala Citi DC Open holds a special significance for Sakkari as it provides her with a sense of homecoming, despite being born in Athens, Greece.
Reflecting on her experience at the tournament, Sakkari expressed her excitement about being able to compete in a familiar setting. “I have never stayed home for a tournament,” she said after reaching the quarterfinals. “I’m just excited that I can be ‘home’ and just feel how, because I don’t have a tournament at home in Greece, to just experience the whole atmosphere around playing at your home tournament. Well, not home tournament, but, adopted home.”
Success on the Court
During the tournament, Sakkari delivered one of her most impressive performances of the season by defeating world No. 11 seed Emma Navarro in a thrilling match. The victory marked Sakkari’s second Top 20 win of the season, showcasing her strength and determination on the court.
After overcoming Navarro in two closely contested sets, Sakkari reflected on her performance, stating, “This was a step forward. I just raised my level, I was solid. The first set was a little tricky but I think that second set showed a lot of strength.”
Rebuilding After Injury
Sakkari’s journey to success has not been without challenges, as she had to rebuild her body following a shoulder injury that sidelined her during the 2024 season. Despite facing setbacks, Sakkari remained resilient and dedicated to her training, gradually working her way back to form.
Speaking about her recovery process, Sakkari shared, “I have worked hard the last, not 12 months but, like, 9 months, let’s say, 8 months after coming back from my injury at this time last year. I knew it was going to start picking up at some point, it’s been good, it hasn’t been where I want it to be, but it’s a good start.”
Looking Ahead
With the tournament providing a platform for Sakkari to showcase her skills on hard courts, her favorite surface, she is eager to continue her momentum and climb up the rankings. As she gears up for future matches, Sakkari remains focused on her goal of playing consistent and high-level tennis.
As she prepares to face Emma Raducanu in the quarterfinals, Sakkari is optimistic about her prospects in the tournament and looks forward to celebrating her 30th birthday with her D.C. family, which includes members of the Georgetown University tennis team.
With a strong support system in place and a renewed sense of determination, Maria Sakkari is poised to make a lasting impact at the Mubadala Citi DC Open and beyond.
Maria Sakkari’s Journey to the Top
Maria Sakkari’s rise in the world of tennis has been a remarkable journey filled with dedication and perseverance. Hailing from Greece, Sakkari has made a name for herself on the international circuit with her impressive performances and unwavering determination.
Since turning professional in 2015, Sakkari has steadily climbed the rankings, showcasing her talent and skill on various surfaces. Known for her powerful groundstrokes and athleticism on the court, she has become a force to be reckoned with in the women’s singles category.
Despite facing setbacks like the shoulder injury that sidelined her, Sakkari’s resilience and work ethic have been key factors in her ability to bounce back stronger than ever. Her commitment to her training and development as a player has not gone unnoticed, with fans and fellow players alike recognizing her drive and passion for the sport.
Adapting to New Challenges
For Sakkari, adapting to new challenges has been a central theme in her career. Whether it’s adjusting to different playing conditions or overcoming injuries, she has shown a remarkable ability to rise above adversity and continue striving for excellence.
Her move to Washington, DC, with her boyfriend Konstantinos Mitsotakis, marked a significant change in her career trajectory. Embracing the opportunity to train and compete in a new environment, Sakkari has found a sense of stability and support that has undoubtedly contributed to her success on the court.
As she navigates the ups and downs of professional tennis, Sakkari’s adaptability and resilience have been instrumental in shaping her into the formidable player she is today. Each challenge has presented her with an opportunity to learn and grow, further solidifying her place among the elite in the sport.
Future Prospects and Ambitions
Looking ahead, Maria Sakkari’s ambitions extend far beyond the current tournament. With her sights set on climbing the rankings and competing at the highest level, she continues to push herself to new heights in pursuit of her goals.
As she prepares to face tough opponents like Emma Raducanu in the quarterfinals, Sakkari’s determination and focus are unwavering. She understands the importance of consistency and high-level performance in tennis, and she is committed to showcasing her best on the court every time she steps onto it.
With the unwavering support of her D.C. family, including members of the Georgetown University tennis team, Sakkari draws strength and motivation from those around her. Their encouragement and belief in her abilities fuel her drive to succeed and make a lasting impact in the world of tennis.
As Maria Sakkari continues to carve out her place among the tennis elite, her journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring athletes everywhere. Her story is a testament to the power of perseverance, hard work, and passion in achieving one’s dreams, both on and off the court.
