The second title of her career has been celebrated since dawn by Maria Sakkari, who managed to make a perfect tournament in Mexico. The Greek champion prevailed 2-0 sets (7-5, 6-3) of Caroline Dollheid and lifted the trophy in the 1000 in Guadalajara, in the 9th final she participated.
Sakkari’s first title was in 2019, in the 250 in Rabat, and she was able to beat her American opponent (No. 111), in the first meeting between them, and she was able to win the tournament that she reached the final of last year, but lost to Jessica Pegula.
Despite being 2-0, the 28-year-old tennis player had to work up a sweat to reach her own ‘Ithaca’, after the outburst she had after being eliminated in the first round of the US Open some time ago.
Watch the moment Sakkari wins the match
This one’s yours, Maria ??@mariasakkari defeats Dolehide, 7-5, 6-3 to win her first EVER WTA 1000 title in Guadalajara!!! ??#GDLOpenAKRON pic.twitter.com/UcE4EGoIFA
— wta (@WTA) September 24, 2023
During the awarding of the title, Maria Sakkari appeared in her favorite Mexico shirt to receive the trophy.
“I have so much to say. First of all congratulations to Caroline because she has worked very hard to get this far. I know because I’ve seen her work. I had said last year about the organizers that you are doing a terrific job here. I am happy to be a part of this project here. I’ll say it again, this is my second home. Thank youshe initially said visibly moved, with the audience chanting her name.
Maria Sakkari after winning Guadalajara:
“I’m so happy to be a part of this group of people, to be here every year, to celebrate with you guys. With all of you. This is my second home. Thank you so much.”
Crowd chants *Maria! Maria!* ???? pic.twitter.com/b2AsNBDDJX
— The Tennis Letter (@TheTennisLetter) September 24, 2023
“Gabi (Sabatini) you played with my mother and I’m glad we had you here» he said about the great Sabatini and thanked sponsors and organizers.
Maria Sakkari to Gabriela Sabatini after winning Guadalajara:
“Gabi, thank you for being here today. I know you played with my mom. I know you were a lot better than her. She admires you a lot. She always spoke very highly about you. You’re a person we looked up to..” ?? pic.twitter.com/oxmn8cMJJu
— The Tennis Letter (@TheTennisLetter) September 24, 2023
“Over 4 years I’ve been waiting for a second title. I was a Top 5 player without a title and it was tough for me. I’m glad I made it here. I thank my family. I know I made them proud. Dedicated to my grandfather who passed away last year and my grandmother who watches from home. Date next yearSakkari said in conclusion.
Maria Sakkari dedicates 1st WTA 1000 title in Guadalajara to her grandfather who passed away:
“I want to thank my family. I really wish they were here with me. I want to dedicate this trophy to my grandfather who passed away last year, & my grandma who is home watching.” ???? pic.twitter.com/kY3o22duHB
— The Tennis Letter (@TheTennisLetter) September 24, 2023
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