At the Toray Pan Pacific Open Tennis, Japan’s Misaki Doi stepped onto the court for her second-round encounter with Maria Sakkari with the weight of potential finality hanging in the air. Indeed, it turned out to be the last match of her career. The Greek fourth seed secured a decisive victory, dominating with a 6-3 6-1 scoreline in just 65 minutes. The bittersweet moment was marked by an emotionally charged farewell, captured in the exclusive photos by Jimmie48.
The post-match moments were incredibly touching, with Sakkari hugging Doi at the net and expressing gratitude for the privilege of being the opponent in the final match of her remarkable career: “You’re an amazing player. You’re a wonderful person. What an honor.” Sakkari stayed on the court to watch Doi’s farewell ceremony.
Maria Sakkari hugs Misaki Doi as she plays the final match of her career:
“You’re an amazing player. You’re a wonderful person. What an honor”
All class from Maria.
Congratulations on a wonderful career, Misaki. Good luck in the next chapter. 🥹
🇯🇵❤️ pic.twitter.com/QNk3hpnimc
— The Tennis Letter (@TheTennisLetter) September 28, 2023
Doi’s friend Kurumi Nara joined her for the emotional post-match ceremony. The two were Tokyo (Japan Women’s Open Tennis) doubles…
