In an electrifying match at the United Cup, Team Greece pulled off a dramatic victory over Spain, thanks to the stellar performances of Stefanos Tsitsipas and Maria Sakkari. The match, which took place on December 28, 2024, at Perth’s RAC Arena, saw Greece clawing back from an early deficit to secure a 2-1 win.
Maria Sakkari, who had been out of action due to a shoulder injury since the US Open, faced a tough challenge against Spain’s Jessica Bouzas Maneiro. Bouzas Maneiro dominated the match, handing Sakkari a 6-2, 6-1 defeat in just 72 minutes. This gave Spain an early 1-0 lead in the tie.
However, the tide turned when Stefanos Tsitsipas took the court to face Pablo Carreno Busta. Tsitsipas, known for his resilience and fighting spirit, delivered a commanding performance, winning his match 6-4, 4-6, 6-3. This forced the tie into a deciding mixed doubles match.
In the mixed doubles rubber, Sakkari and Tsitsipas teamed up to face Ivonne Cavalle-Reimers and Sergio Martos Gomes. The Greek duo showed incredible determination, coming back from a set down to win the match tie-break 4-6, 6-3, 10-6. This victory not only secured Greece’s place in the tournament but also eliminated Spain.
Reflecting on the match, Tsitsipas said, “There isn’t a single Greek night without some drama. I’m super grateful that I have a fighter like Maria beside me. She never disappoints, she delivered until the end.” Sakkari added, “It’s always amazing to play alongside Stefanos and create good moments on the court.”
With this win, Greece now has a 1-0 record in Perth and will face Kazakhstan on Monday for the top spot in Group C. The Greek team is optimistic about their chances and hopes to continue their strong performance in the tournament.
The United Cup has certainly lived up to its name, showcasing thrilling matches and unexpected turns. Greece’s victory over Spain is a testament to their resilience and teamwork, setting the stage for more exciting matches to come.
Stefanos Tsitsipas in 2024
Currently the world no.11, Tsitsipas played his last match on the 28th of December when he beat world no.196 Pablo Carreno-Busta 6-4 4-6 6-3 in the round robin in Australia (draw).
At present, during this year the Greek has achieved a composed 1-0 win-loss record. Stefanos conquered 1 title in Monte-Carlo. Tsitsipas reached the final in Barcelona.
Maria Sakkari in 2024
At the moment ranked no.32, Sakkari played her last match on the 28th of December when she lost to world no.54 Jessica Bouzas Maneiro 6-2 6-1 in the round robin in Australia (draw).
Presently, during this year the Greek achieved a compiled 0-1 win-loss record. Maria Sakkari’s best achievement of the current season was reaching the final in Indian Wells.