"She's also playing a top-10 player" - Maria Sakkari seeks revenge against Raducanu in Wimbledon showdown

World No.9 Maria Sakkari will face a stern test on Friday when she battles home favorite Emma Raducanu in the third round at the Wimbledon Championships. The Greek star has sent out a message implying she's ready to avenge her US Open loss to the British youngster.

During Raducanu's spectacular run to the 2021 US Open title, the qualifier upset the then-18th ranked Sakkari in the semifinals en route to her first Major title. With that loss in mind, the Greek star seems set to exact some revenge when the two clash in the third round at SW19.

Although the World No.9 has never made it past the third round at Wimbledon, she believes this year could be different. Standing in her way is Raducanu, who has been playing some superb tennis this week.

“I think the opportunity is for both," said Sakkari. "She's also playing a top-10 player. Let's not forget that. She's an unbelievable player. She's very talented. She's very promising. Even after winning a Grand Slam, she's still very young.

"Obviously, she's going to be the favourite because she'll be playing home. If anything, that's normal. But I'm excited. It's another challenge. That's why we play tennis. That's what we play for. It's going to be pretty exciting. I'm pumped."

Conversely, Raducanu also seems prepared for her showdown against Sakkari. The former US Open champion admitted it would be a difficult task, but seemed prepared to enjoy it regardless.

"I think it was in the semis of the US Open," said Raducanu when recalling her previous meeting against Sakkari. "Circumstances are different. Like, in a third round compared to a semifinal. At the time the dynamics were also different. I was an unknown player, pretty much. I'm expecting a really tough match. She's,, I don't know, top 10 or something. It's going to be a really difficult one.

"Again, it's going to be one where I'm the complete underdog and I can just enjoy playing in my home crowd, home Slam. Just keep having fun and trying to stay an extra day."