In a thrilling display of skill and determination, Maria Sakkari delivered a commanding performance at the Mutua Madrid Open, upsetting No. 6 seed Jasmine Paolini with a decisive score of 6-2, 6-1 on Sunday, April 27, 2025. This victory marks a significant milestone for Sakkari, as it is her first win against a Top 10 opponent in 13 months, propelling her into the Round of 16.
Sakkari's triumph over Paolini not only snapped an eight-match losing streak against Top 10 players, dating back to the BNP Paribas Open in 2023, but it also showcased her resilience and dedication to her craft. "I was clear on what I had to do on the court," Sakkari stated confidently after the match. "I just went out and executed it perfectly. I didn’t give her any room to breathe — that was the goal against a very good player." This win is particularly noteworthy as it levels her career record against Top 10 opponents on clay to 6-6.
The match, which lasted just over an hour, saw Sakkari dominate with six aces and break Paolini’s serve six times, while only facing one break herself. This performance not only highlights her powerful serve but also her strategic gameplay, which has been refined through her renewed partnership with coach Tom Hill. After a brief split, Sakkari credits Hill for helping her regain her confidence and focus on the court. "We believe in each other. Just feels very comfortable and he knows my game like no one else," she remarked.
Now riding a three-match win streak, Sakkari will face No. 17 seed Elina Svitolina in the next round, with their head-to-head record standing at 2-2. This upcoming match will be their first encounter on clay, adding an extra layer of excitement to the contest. Sakkari's recent success comes at a crucial time as the clay season heats up, and she is eager to build on her momentum.
In a tournament filled with surprises, Sakkari's victory stood out, especially with No. 3 seed Jessica Pegula also falling to Japan’s Moyuka Uchijima, who secured her first career Top 10 win. The Madrid Open has proven to be a battleground for upsets, and Sakkari's emphatic statement against Paolini has solidified her status as a serious contender.
Reflecting on her journey, Sakkari expressed a sense of humility about her expectations moving forward. "I’m staying humble with my expectations," she said. "But it feels like a good step forward." With a renewed sense of purpose and a solid support system, Sakkari appears ready to tackle the challenges ahead as she aims for a deeper run in the tournament.
As the competition continues, tennis fans around the world will be eagerly watching to see if Maria Sakkari can maintain her form and build on this crucial victory. With her eyes set on the title, she remains focused on the process, determined to make her mark in Madrid and beyond.
