Sakkari: “I know I have to raise my level to win the tournament”

Maria Sakkari has reached the quarterfinals of the St. Petersburg tournament, where she will face Elize Mertens on Friday (11/02), but that’s not enough for her as she wants to go further.

Regarding her match with Alexandrova and the break she got early in the second set, she said: “That break was very important because after the game it served very well – we both managed it. So it was very important that I took the lead quickly to be able to finish the game. I think I have a very made a good game and that was it.” It’s great that I was able to break the break right at the beginning of the second set.”

When asked if it could be improved: “That’s what I’m trying to do. Today my level was very good and I hope I can continue like this. I know I have to improve my level to win the tournament, but I think it was a very good game , a very good start for “The level today. As I said on the pitch, I’m very happy with my game.”

For her match with Mertens: “We always have big fights with Mertens. The last one, as far as I can remember, was at Roland Garros. We both played at a high level in that match and for me it was the tournament that changed my career after I played got in a ‘Grand Slam semi-final. I’m expecting a tough fight and I hope I can play even better.”