“Novak will be invited”: Maria Sakkari opens door to Djokovic at 500-guest Greek wedding plans
WTAMonday, 06 July 2026 at 20:00
Maria Sakkari’s off-court life has moved further into focus following her engagement and growing wedding plans, with the Greek player offering new details about the scale of the ceremony and the guest list during an interview with First & Red. At the centre of the discussion was a striking revelation: Novak Djokovic is expected to be invited.
Sakkari became engaged in early 2026 to her long-time boyfriend Konstantinos Mitsotakis, son of Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, shortly before travelling to Australia for the start of the season. The couple had been together for around five years before formalising the engagement, marking a new chapter for the former world No. 3.
Sakkari revealed that plans are currently set for around 500 guests, with Greek traditions heavily influencing the scale and duration of the celebration. “Well, it's minimum 400 or 500 people. We are planning a small wedding for 500 people," she said. "So it's... imagine if we were to have a big wedding, it's more than a thousand."
She also highlighted the cultural context behind the numbers, pointing to the typical length of Greek celebrations. “You know, that's the reason, because people in Greece like to have fun. They like to stay at the wedding until 7, 8, 9 a.m., until the sun comes up. So it's a long day.”
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Sakkari opens up on tour friendships and closest WTA circle
Sakkari identified a small group of players with whom she spends the most time during tournaments, particularly in informal settings away from competition. These include Ajla Tomljanovic, Donna Vekic, Belinda Bencic and Sorana Cirstea.
“Yes, I have some friends with whom I like to spend time. Ajla (Tomljanovic) and Donna (Vekic), my closest friends, Belinda (Bencic) and Sorana (Cirstea) are also in the group of girls with whom we like to have dinner from time to time,” she said.
She also expanded the scope beyond her closest circle, emphasising that most players she encounters regularly are positive and approachable. “Oh, there are a lot of nice girls. Jess Pegula is very nice, Maddie Keys, Coco (Gauff), Iga (Swiatek), Aryna (Sabalenka), Jasmine Paolini. They are all very nice, I have nothing negative to say about them. Most of the players are super nice."
The Greek player noted that while backgrounds and priorities differ, the general atmosphere within the locker room remains respectful and professional, shaped by shared routines and constant travel.
“Different, of course, because we grew up differently, we have different cultures, different priorities. But I have to say that most of the girls we deal with every day are very good people."
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“I think Novak will be invited”: Djokovic link adds global dimension to wedding plans
When asked about potential tennis guests, Sakkari confirmed that several familiar names from the tour are expected to attend, including close friends and fellow Greek players.
“Yes, Stefanos (Tsitsipas) will be invited, and Petros, his brother," she said. "Some Greek players with whom I grew up and played. We had incredible moments when we were juniors,” she said.
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The most notable name mentioned, however, was Novak Djokovic, whose expected invitation adds a high-profile international layer to an already significant guest list. Sakkari suggested the Serbian’s connection comes through family proximity, rather than purely sporting ties.
“I think Novak will be invited. He's very close to my father-in-law, so he will be invited. That's it for now. We'll see until someone else joins the list,” she said.
The reference places Djokovic among a select group of tennis figures expected at the ceremony, which already includes leading WTA names and key figures from Greek tennis circles.
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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