What a statement! Maria Sakkari didn't just win a tennis match in Doha; she delivered a seismic shock, shattering records and igniting the Qatar TotalEnergies Open quarterfinals.
Key Match Moments
- Maria Sakkari defeated top seed Iga Swiatek in a gripping three-set battle: 2-6, 6-4, 7-5.
- Sakkari ended Swiatek's astounding 109-0 record when winning the first set at WTA 1000 events.
- The Greek star also snapped a frustrating four-match losing streak against the former world No. 1.
- A crucial double-bounce call added a dramatic twist to the decisive third set.
A Masterclass in Resilience: Sakkari's Epic Comeback
In a stunning display of grit at the Doha Qatar TotalEnergies Open, Maria Sakkari pulled off one of the upsets of the year, overcoming top seed Iga Swiatek in a pulsating three-set thriller. The 2-6, 6-4, 7-5 victory wasn't just a quarterfinal win; it was a defiant roar from the former world No. 2, who proved her comeback is in full swing. Speaking after the match, Sakkari embraced the underdog role, stating, "You're always the underdog with playing against the No. 2 in the world, especially where I'm coming from. But I kept telling myself... I was aggressive, I was brave, and it worked out really well."
Breaking the Swiatek Code
Sakkari didn't just beat Swiatek; she rewrote the record books. Iga Swiatek boasted an almost mythical 109-0 record when securing the first set at WTA 1000 tournaments. That streak? Decisively dismantled by Sakkari's unwavering fight. This monumental win also marked the end of Sakkari's four-match losing streak against her formidable rival, a psychological hurdle cleared with spectacular flair.
The Road Back to the Top Tier
For those who followed Maria Sakkari's journey, her resurgence has been undeniable. After a dip in form that saw her ranking fall to No. 90 last spring, her reunion with longtime coach Tom Hill has clearly rekindled her spark. This week in Doha alone, she has secured two Top 10 victories, including a strong performance against Jasmine Paolini, signaling a powerful return to elite form and her first WTA 1000 semifinal since 2024 BNP Paribas Open.
Double Trouble: Controversy Rocks Decisive Set
No epic encounter is complete without its share of drama, and this match delivered. The third set was marred by a controversial double-bounce call during a critical moment. Serving for the match at 5-3, Sakkari successfully invoked the video review system, determining that Swiatek's shot had indeed bounced twice before contact.
The Call That Shook Doha
While the technology confirmed the double-bounce, the incident sparked debate. Swiatek, who had previously benefited from a similar call at the 2025 Australian Open against Emma Navarro, maintained her innocence, stating, "I wasn't sure, honestly." Sakkari, however, defended the system, noting its importance for fairness in high-stakes matches. This pivotal moment underscored the fine margins at the top of professional tennis.
Navigating the Nerves
Despite the controversy and the subsequent loss of her service game, which saw Swiatek save a match point with an ace to level at 5-5, Sakkari's mental fortitude shone through. Having led 5-2 and been just points away from defeat in the second set, she regained her composure. "It's very normal, actually, to get a little bit tight and a little bit stressed, especially when I haven't witnessed those moments in a long time," Sakkari reflected. Her ability to lock in and break Swiatek again to clinch the match at 7-5 in the decider was a testament to her renewed bravery and clutch performance.
What's Next for the Greek Star?
Maria Sakkari's thrilling victory sets up a tantalizing semifinal clash. She will now face the winner of the quarterfinal battle between No. 14 seed Karolina Muchova and Anna Kalinskaya. With this kind of momentum and a renewed sense of purpose, Sakkari is undoubtedly a force to be reckoned with in Doha.
