Even though she might not have qualified the traditional way, Maria Sakkari will once again play at the WTA Finals after Karolina Muchova withdrew.
Maria Sakkari had a pretty up-and-down season as the Greek player struggled with form and confidence issues. She spoke about it openly, admitting to almost going on a hiatus after those disappointments but pushed through, and it paid off.
She won the Guadalajara Open, which broke a very long trophy drought and is by far the biggest trophy she's ever won. It was a huge moment for her as her play continued to remain solid after that during her stay in Asia.
Now, she'll get a chance to play at the WTA Finals once more as Karolina Muchova withdrew from the event. The Czech player qualified recently but unfortunately won't be able to make it due to a wrist injury, which leaves her unable to play.
Sakkari was the first player looking in, so she gets the nod, thanks to the withdrawal. It's not the way you want to get it, but she'll be grateful for the chance to compete among the best.
It won't be her first time either because she played there last year and was pretty decent. It's a different court and different conditions compared to last year, but she won't mind.
She's had a love affair with Mexico for a few years now, calling it her second home because she plays amazing tennis in the country. It all started a few years ago when she took part in the WTA Finals in Guadalajara, which were very good for her.
Then she returned to Guadalajara and made it to the final last year, losing to Jessica Pegula. She finally won the event this year and will now try to do the same in Cancun.