Newly-crowned Guadalajara Open champion Maria Sakkari opened up on the challenges she faced in getting over the finish in Saturday's final to win her second career title.
Sakkari was imperious during the week in western Mexico, as she raced to the final without the loss of a set and did not relinquish more than four games in any sets. That was until she met American World No. 111 Caroline Dolehide, the tournament's surprise package who pushed the Greek to her limits.
Sakkari was capable and sturdy, overcoming some early jitters and nerves to beat Dolehide 7-5, 6-3. She won 70% of her first-serve points and converted four of 11 break points to become a WTA 1000 champion for the first time.
The Greek then opened up on the difficulty of digesting negativity written about her, presumably on social media, about her poor record in finals. She also said people questioned the meritocracy of her ranking when she hadn't added to her trophy cabinet.
Before this week, Sakkari had won just one Tour-level title which came four years ago in Rabat during the embryonic stages of her partnership with coach Tom Hill. The 28-year-old stated that it was 'hard to overcome' people making fun of her trophy cabinet but was delighted that it all came together in Guadalajara.
"Lastly, I don't want to forget to thank my coach Tom (Hill) who has been with me the last five years. We've waited for more than four years for a second title. We've heard so many bad things, that I will never win a title, that I'm a top-five player with only winning one title. That was very hard for me to overcome and I'm so happy that I did it here this week."
Sakkari also dedicated her win to her family and wished the whole entourage were present in Mexico to witness her achievement, especially her grandfather who passed away last year, and her grandmother who she thought was watching back home.
"I want to thank my family. I really wish they were here with me. I want to dedicate this trophy to my grandfather who passed away last year, and my grandma who is watching at home."
0 Comments