Sakkari outlasts determined Stephens to advance in Toronto

In one of the more gritty matches on Center Court at the National Bank Open (Rogers Cup), Maria Sakkari raised her level when needed to eliminate Sloane Stephens and reach the round of 16.

The third seed pulled off a remarkable 6-2 4-6 6-2 victory over the 2017 US Open champion, displaying the grit and tenacity that is accustomed with her unique game. The Greek star had never met Stephens on Tour prior to Tuesday's encounter, setting up for a rather unpredictable showdown.

Sakkari came out firing on all cylinders in the first set, winning all 12 points behind her first serve and never even facing a break point. The 27-year old was aggressive from the start, and Stephens could only watch as the Greek ran away with the opening set.

However, Stephens chose not to dwell on the opener as she fought back in the second, employing strategic shot placement interspersed with powerful groundstrokes from the baseline. After an exchange of breaks, the former World No.3 obtained a second break to clinch the second set and force a decider.

It was here that Sakkari's mental fortitude was on display, as the World No.4 regained her composure to apply the pressure on Stephens. She obtained the crucial break to lead 4-2, before breaking a second time when Stephens served to stay in the match.

After an exhausting two hour encounter, Sakkari gets a day of rest before facing the winner between Amanda Anisimova and 14th seed Karolina Pliskova.