Maria Sakkari reveals dealing with constant pressure played a big part in her inconsistent form and results last year but now feels recharged and hopes to get back to her old level.
Apart from a runner-up finish in Indian Wells and a semifinal showing in Charleston, the Greek’s 2024 season was marked by early exits and disappointing Grand Slam results.
The former world No. 3 – who was even on a four-match losing streak at one point in mid-2024 – decided to call it a season after a shoulder injury forced her to retire against Wang Yafan in the US Open first round.
“The pressure, it was a lot, being constantly chased and having to prove something to everyone,” Sakkari told WTA Insider.
“I feel the time off was great because I had time to think about a lot of things and see things differently because when you are on tour you never really relax and take time for yourself. It was great that I had that time just to see things differently.”
Sakkari disconnected from tennis: Now I’m recharged for a good amount of years
After realizing that everything became too much, the 29-year-old focused on doing some non-tennis activities.
And it worked out perfectly as the the Greek tennis star enjoyed some pretty quality time during her break from tennis.
“I just took advantage of other…
