Maria Sakkari on hard quarantine in Australia: ‘I’m super grateful’

·

Greek tennis star Maria Sakkari has “nothing to complain about” while undergoing hard quarantine in Melbourne, applauding the attitude of Australians during the pandemic.

Speaking to 3AW, Sakkari said that she, along with every other tennis player who arrived in Melbourne, understood the risks that were associated with arriving in the country safe.

“[There was] six months of strict lockdown here in Melbourne,” she said. 

“We knew the risks coming here, we knew the frustration, we knew its up to the government so I totally understand.”

“Seriously, there is nothing to complain about.”

Sakkari, ranked 22nd in the world, was on board a chartered flight that forced 47 Australian Open players, now 72 players, into quarantine, following a member of the flight testing positive to COVID-19. The players are currently spending a total of 14 days in quarantine, unable to leave their hotel rooms.

Unlike tennis players Novak Djokovic and Roberto Bautista Agut, Sakkari has been enjoying her time in isolation, even ordering Greek takeout to her hotel room to make it feel more at home.

“You have to keep a positive mentality, that’s the key,” she told Neil Mitchell on 3AW Mornings.

“I’m super fine, and my friends are also doing well, and they are also in strict lockdown here, so I have to say that most of the people here are not complaining about it.”

Maria Sakkari showing how she works out in hotel quarantine. Photo: Maria Sakkari Instagram

World No.1 Novak Djokovic received slack for presenting six ‘outrageous’ demands, one of which being a request for the players to be moved to private houses with a tennis court to facilitate training. Australian player Nick Kyrgios labelled the World No. 1 as a “tool”.

Sakkari concluded her interview with 3AW by saying Australians are the “nicest people we have ever met” and is grateful to be participating in the tournament.

“I’m so grateful that you guys allowed us to come into your country while you were not allowing anyone else to come in and you guys are the nicest people that we have met,” said the Greek sportswoman.

Share:

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH TGH

By subscribing you accept our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

Latest News

A century of voice, advocacy and belonging: The Greek Herald marks 100 years

Founded in 1926, The Greek Herald marks a century of journalism, chronicling the history, identity and civic life of Greek Australians.

Tom Koutsantonis MP defends comments on Fr Patsouris after Adelaide Diocese response

South Australian MP Tom Koutsantonis has responded after the Holy Diocese of Adelaide criticised his public remarks on Fr Patsouris.

Mytilenian Brotherhood of Sydney to elect new Board at 2026 AGM

Members of the Mytilenian Brotherhood of Sydney and NSW will gather later this month for the organisation’s 2026 Annual General Meeting (AGM).

Angelo Tsarouchas brings ‘Diaspora’ tour to Australia for three-city run

The Funny Greek, Angelo Tsarouchas, is headed back to Australia with his hilarious new show Diaspora on a short but sweet three-city tour. 

Elvis Korsovitis joins the Kospetas Family to open STIX Hellenic Taverna in Sydney

A bold new chapter in Classical Greek dining unfolds this week, as Elvis Korsovitis, co-founder of the much-loved Greek street food brand Stix &...

You May Also Like

Rena Frangioudaki: A life in Greek radio broadcasting

Known as the ‘golden voice’ of Melbourne, Rena Frangioudaki OAM, will reflect on her life in radio on September 13 at the Greek Centre.

Two Greeks injured and others trapped as clashes continue in Sudan

Two Greeks are in hospital and others remain trapped in Sudan as clashes between the army and paramilitary units spread across the country.

John Barilaro resigns as NSW Deputy Premier

NSW Deputy Premier, John Barilaro, has announced he will step down as Nationals leader and resign from parliament.