Maria Sakkari delivered a strong performance at the Adelaide International today, earning her most significant victory in nine months to secure a spot in the tournament’s last 16.
Entering the main draw as a ‘lucky loser,’ the top Greek tennis player capitalised on her second chance by defeating World No. 30 Linda Noskova in straight sets, 6-3, 6-3.
The win marked Sakkari’s first triumph over a Top 30 player since April 2024.
“I haven’t played a lot of matches. I felt it was the best thing to do before Australian Open. Every match I play I feel a lot better. I feel like a lucky lucky loser,” Sakkari said after the match.
Currently ranked World No. 32, Sakkari has been working to regain her form after missing much of the latter half of 2024 due to a back injury. Her clinical display against Noskova was highlighted by 18 winners, three break points saved, and a flawless serving game.
In the opening set, Sakkari established an early lead of 3-0, maintaining her advantage throughout while fending off break points in two games.
The second set followed a similar pattern, with Sakkari saving a break point early on before breaking Noskova’s serve twice to seal the match in just 74 minutes.
Sakkari’s next challenge will be top seed Jessica Pegula, who will make her tournament debut in the second round.
Source: tennisnews.gr
