Maria Sakkari is embracing a fresh mindset and a new coaching team as she aims for a resurgence in 2025. Despite battling to stay in the Top 30, the Greek star insists she is happier than ever, having taken time off to recover from a shoulder injury that ended her 2023 season.
“The pressure, it was a lot, being constantly chased and having to prove something to everyone,” Sakkari admitted after her first-round win in Doha. The break allowed her to reassess her career, reconnect with loved ones, and build a team around her that includes new coach Raemon Sluiter and longtime hitting partner Julien Cagnina.
Sakkari, who has two WTA titles and two Grand Slam semifinal appearances, remains motivated by players like Madison Keys, her childhood rival who won the Australian Open last month. Watching Keys triumph reaffirmed Sakkari’s belief that her best days on tour might still be ahead.
As she prepares to face world No. 2 Iga Swiatek, Sakkari acknowledges she is still months away from peak form but remains patient. “I’m a lot happier now, even though my ranking has dropped,” she said. “At some point, you have to take a break. The older you get, the more clearly you see things.”
Sakkari in Doha, ranking, and results in 2025
At the moment ranked no.29, Maria has a composed 4-6 record in 2025. Maria is currently having a run in Doha where she toppled the world no.111 Elena Gabriela Ruse 4-6 6-3 4-0 ret..
Maria Sakkari will come up against the world no.2 Iga Swiatek in the 2nd round on Monday at 6:00 pm on CENTER COURT. Their current head to head is 3-3.
Maria Sakkari |
| Embed from Getty Images |
