Maria Sakkari has not had a great season by her own admission but played one of her best matches so far to reach the Quarter-Finals of the Madrid Open on Monday afternoon.
Sakkari took down the home hero, Paula Badosa with ease in just under one hour, 30 minutes at Caja Magica 6-4, 6-4 with the Spartan attitude associated with the Greek in full show.
One break per set was enough for Sakkari to move through with very little flashes from Badosa who hit five double faults, 19 unforced errors and missed three opportunities to break.
Compared to five aces, a sole double fault, 68% on her first serve and 2/3 break points won by Sakkari in moving through, as the crowd see one of the main hopes head out.
Next up in the Quarter-Finals is Irina-Camelia Begu who saw off Liudmila Samsonova earlier 6-4, 6-4 to reach a fourth career WTA 1000 Quarter-Final. Interestingly, it is her third in Madrid.
Sakkari beats Paula Badosa 6-4 6-4 For the first time this season, I felt like Maria had all her confidence back No matter what tough losses she’s had this year, Maria has this Spartan attitude that is absolutely unshakable. ✅1st Madrid QF Admirable in every way 🇬🇷🤍🇬🇷
