Athens Open Final Round-Up | Barbora Krejcikova spoils Sakkari’s home dream to claim inaugural title
WTAMonday, 20 July 2026 at 00:25
Barbora Krejcikova spoiled Maria Sakkari's bid for a fairytale home triumph, defeating the Greek 7-6(5), 6-3 to capture the inaugural Athens Open title. In a final between two former Top 5 players rebuilding their careers after injury setbacks, the Czech once again proved decisive in the biggest moments, claiming her first WTA title since returning to the Tour.
Sakkari looked in control for much of the opening set and had the backing of the home crowd throughout, but Krejcikova repeatedly fought back from difficult positions before taking the tiebreak. Although the Greek responded by earning the first break of the second set, the Czech quickly regained momentum and never looked back, completing another impressive week in Athens.
Krejcikova ends Sakkari’s home hopes
Barbora Krejcikova def. Maria Sakkari 7-6(5), 6-3
Barbora Krejcikova claimed the inaugural Athens Open title after producing another clutch performance to defeat home favourite Maria Sakkari 7-6(5), 6-3 in a high-quality final between two former Top 5 players.
Sakkari made the brighter start, breaking early and opening a 4-1 advantage behind an excellent serving display. The Greek looked in control of the opening set, but Krejcikova gradually raised her level, breaking back before reeling off three consecutive games to restore parity.
Sakkari steadied herself to force a tiebreak, but the Czech once again proved more composed in the decisive moments. After the Greek fought back to level at 5-5, Krejcikova immediately earned another mini-break and sealed the set when Sakkari netted a volley.
The home favourite responded well after the disappointment of the opener, earning the first break of the second set and briefly shifting the momentum back in her favour. However, just as she had done throughout the tournament, Krejcikova found an immediate answer, breaking straight back before taking control of the longer rallies.
The Czech earned another crucial break late in the set and never looked back, serving out the match confidently to complete the victory.
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The statistics reflected just how evenly contested the final was. Krejcikova won 66% of her service points, only marginally ahead of Sakkari's 65%, while both players were clinical when opportunities arose on return. The Czech converted all three of her break points, with Sakkari equally efficient at 2-for-2, highlighting how few chances either player created throughout the contest.
Ultimately, the difference came in the biggest moments. Krejcikova remained composed under pressure and capitalized on a handful of untimely errors from Sakkari in the closing stages, winning eight of the final ten points to seal the championship.
The victory gives Krejcikova the ninth WTA singles title of her career and is projected to lift the two-time Grand Slam champion back to World No. 26. For Sakkari, the defeat ends a memorable week in front of her home crowd, but reaching her first WTA final in more than two years represents another significant milestone in her resurgence after an injury-plagued period.
Barbora Krejcikova adds another trophy to her collection, capturing the ninth WTA title of her career.
Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist
Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.
His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.
In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.
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